The following statement was jointly released by the Governments of the United States and Malaysia during the 6th Senior Officials’ Dialogue held in the vibrant city of Putrajaya, Malaysia on October 21, 2024. This significant event also commemorated the 10th anniversary of the U.S-Malaysia Comprehensive Partnership, a milestone in diplomatic relations.
During the dialogue, the Malaysian delegation was led by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secretary General Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin, while the United States was represented by Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel J. Kritenbrink. The engagement reinforced the profound and evolving partnership between both nations.
Both sides noted with great satisfaction the deep-rooted ties between the two countries, especially in economic cooperation. Malaysia and the United States acknowledged that the development of trade and economic relations is a key aspect of strengthening cooperation between the two countries. The U.S. welcomed Malaysia’s briefing on efforts to enhance sustainability through certification systems for timber and palm oil products. Both sides further committed to exploring opportunities for collaboration aimed at improving sustainability.
Additionally, the two sides recognized the importance of collaboration in high-growth sectors such as semiconductors, the digital economy, renewable energy, and critical minerals. Joint efforts will focus on improving supply chain resilience, accelerating the clean energy transition, and fostering private sector partnerships stimulating innovation and job creation. Both nations expressed appreciation for ongoing initiatives under the Indo Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and pledged to deepen engagement to support sustainable growth.
Both sides further reaffirmed their commitment to advancing peace and security cooperation. Key areas of focus will include combating transnational crime and trafficking in persons, countering terrorism, and upholding international maritime law as articulated in the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention (UNCLOS). The United States and Malaysia reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability in the South China Sea. Malaysia appreciated the U.S.’s recognition of its efforts to combat trafficking in persons, which resulted in an upgrade to Tier 2 in the 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report.
Malaysia also acknowledged the cooperation from the United States in enhancing its maritime security, including the upcoming transfer of the United States Coast Guard Cutter STEADFAST under the Excess Defense Articles program. This vessel is expected to bolster the capabilities of the Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) upon its arrival in the first quarter of 2025. Drawing on their historical ties, both nations welcomed continuous efforts to strengthen defense ties under existing agreements, as well as by exploring new areas of cooperation.
The United States expressed its support for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 as it seeks to promote peace, stability, and prosperity throughout the region. Additionally, the U.S. reiterated its commitment to ASEAN centrality and welcomed ASEAN’s initiatives to address the situation in Myanmar.
Both sides emphasized the active and ongoing cooperation on current regional and global challenges within the framework of regional and international organizations. They stressed the urgent need for continued and active negotiations at regional and international fora, particularly through multilateral entities like the United Nations.
Both sides collectively called for a diplomatic resolution to immediately de-escalate tensions and secure an impending ceasefire in Gaza. They underscored the necessity of releasing hostages while ensuring unrestricted humanitarian access to the region. Furthermore, both emphasized the need for sustainable peace to prevent further loss of innocent lives and to avert deeper instability.
Recognizing the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties, Malaysia and the United States are committed to expanding educational and cultural exchanges, including programs like the Fulbright Program and the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI). These initiatives aim to empower future leaders while fostering mutual understanding between Malaysians and Americans. Opportunities to enhance academic collaborations and tourism were also discussed as a means to enrich the bilateral relationship.
The 6th Senior Officials’ Dialogue exemplified the shared dedication of Malaysia and the United States to foster prosperity, ensure regional stability, and strengthen the connections between their nations. This positive momentum of cooperation serves as a robust foundation for elevating the Malaysia-United States Comprehensive Partnership to unprecedented levels.
Interview with Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: Reflecting on the 6th Senior Officials’ Dialogue between the U.S. and Malaysia
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin. The recent Senior Officials’ Dialogue in Putrajaya marked an important milestone for the U.S.-Malaysia Comprehensive Partnership. Can you share your thoughts on the significance of this 10th-anniversary commemoration?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: Thank you for having me. This event was indeed significant. It showcased the depth of our bilateral relationship and the shared commitment to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors. Celebrating ten years of the Comprehensive Partnership demonstrates our mutual respect and trust, which have only grown stronger through dialogue and collaboration.
Interviewer: The dialogue highlighted economic cooperation as a crucial aspect of your relationship. What specific initiatives are being discussed to further enhance trade between the two nations?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: We underscored our dedication to improving trade ties and emphasized sustainable practices, particularly in the timber and palm oil industries. The U.S. welcomed our efforts to implement certification systems to promote sustainability. Additionally, we identified high-growth sectors like semiconductors and renewable energy as focal points for collaboration, with the goal of enhancing supply chain resilience and spurring innovation.
Interviewer: Security was also a pivotal topic during the discussions. Can you elaborate on the shared security concerns and initiatives mentioned?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: Absolutely. Both nations reaffirmed our commitment to peace and security, particularly in combatting transnational crime and ensuring stability in the South China Sea. We appreciate the U.S. recognition of our efforts against trafficking in persons, which has led to an upgrade in our standing. The upcoming transfer of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter STEADFAST will significantly enhance our maritime security capabilities, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to a safer region.
Interviewer: Malaysia has the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. How does the U.S. support your initiatives in this role?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: The United States has expressed strong support for our chairmanship. As we focus on promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, we look forward to collaborating with the U.S. and other ASEAN nations. Their backing reinforces our efforts to address regional challenges and foster economic growth.
Interviewer: As you look ahead, what are your hopes for the future of U.S.-Malaysia relations?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: I am optimistic about the future. Our partnership is evolving, and the commitment demonstrated during the dialogue in Putrajaya gives me confidence. By focusing on sustainability, economic growth, and security, we can navigate the challenges ahead and ensure that our relationship continues to thrive for the benefit of both nations and the broader region.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin, for sharing your insights. It’s clear that the U.S.-Malaysia relationship is poised for continued growth and collaboration.
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: Thank you for having me. I look forward to our ongoing partnership.
Interview with Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: Reflecting on the 6th Senior Officials’ Dialogue between the U.S. and Malaysia
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin. The recent Senior Officials’ Dialogue in Putrajaya marked an important milestone for the U.S.-Malaysia Comprehensive Partnership. Can you share your thoughts on the significance of this 10th-anniversary commemoration?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: Thank you for having me. This event was indeed significant. It showcased the depth of our bilateral relationship and the shared commitment to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors. Celebrating ten years of the Comprehensive Partnership demonstrates our mutual respect and trust, which have only grown stronger through dialogue and collaboration.
Interviewer: The dialogue highlighted economic cooperation as a crucial aspect of your relationship. What specific initiatives are being discussed to further enhance trade between the two nations?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: We underscored our dedication to improving trade ties and emphasized sustainable practices, particularly in the timber and palm oil industries. The U.S. welcomed our efforts to implement certification systems to promote sustainability. Additionally, we identified high-growth sectors like semiconductors and renewable energy as focal points for collaboration, with the goal of enhancing supply chain resilience and spurring innovation.
Interviewer: Security was also a pivotal topic during the discussions. Can you elaborate on the shared security concerns and initiatives mentioned?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: Absolutely. Both nations reaffirmed our commitment to peace and security, particularly in combatting transnational crime and ensuring stability in the South China Sea. We appreciate the U.S. recognition of our efforts against trafficking in persons, which has led to an upgrade in our standing. The upcoming transfer of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter STEADFAST will significantly enhance our maritime security capabilities, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to protecting our waters and communities.
Interviewer: Besides security and economic initiatives, what role do people-to-people connections play in strengthening the U.S.-Malaysia relationship?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: They are crucial. We are committed to expanding educational and cultural exchanges, such as programs like the Fulbright Program and the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI). These initiatives empower future leaders and foster mutual understanding between Malaysians and Americans. Such connections enrich our relationship at the grassroots level, creating a strong foundation for continued collaboration.
Interviewer: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of the U.S.-Malaysia Comprehensive Partnership?
Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin: I hope to see both nations continue to build on this strong foundation, exploring new areas of cooperation that benefit our people and enhance regional stability. By working closely together, I believe we can tackle shared challenges and seize opportunities that will lead to a more prosperous future for both Malaysia and the United States. Thank you for this opportunity to discuss these important topics.
