KOTA KINABALU: The United States’ struggle for independence 250 years ago continues to resonate with Malaysia’s own nation-building journey the US ambassador to Malaysia
said.
Edgard D. Kagan said both nations were shaped by periods of struggle and the challenge of uniting diverse societies.
“When you go back to 1776, a small group of people challenged the most powerful country in the world in pursuit of independence and freedom,” he said.
“Two hundred and fifty years later, the idea that people should have a voice in choosing their government has become a global norm, even if it is not always fully implemented.”
Kagan was referring to the US’ upcoming 250th anniversary, dubbed Freedom250, when speaking with the media at the Sabah State Library in Tanjung Aru here recently.
He said Malaysia’s path to independence shared similarities with that of the US, as both countries emerged from periods marked by conflict and consolidation, requiring unity to overcome internal challenges.
“Malaysia, like the US, was born out of a period of struggle. Both had to bring people together to achieve stability and independence.
“While the US and Malaysia are organised differently and have different systems, there are clear similarities in how both countries manage diversity.”
He said the resemblance between the two national flags symbolised the shared ideal of multiple states uniting as one nation.
Despite differences over the years, he said both countries had worked constructively to manage disagreements.
As part of Freedom250, Kagan said the US Embassy planned to bring anniversary programmes to Malaysia to highlight shared values and strengthen people-to-people ties.
“We are planning roadshows across Malaysia and (some of these) will definitely be in Kota Kinabalu, especially with the American Corner here,” he said.
Kagan said longstanding cooperation between the two countries would continue, particularly in security and humanitarian engagement.
He said the Pacific Partnership programme was expected to be held in Sabah this year.
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