Congressman Gregory W. Meeks Resolution On Malaysia's 50th Anniversary Of Independence Passes In The House Of Representatives

(WASHINGTON, DC)–Today, a bipartisan majority in the House of Representatives joined Rep. Meeks to pass a resolution recognizing and congratulating Malaysia’s 50th anniversary of independence. The resolution also expressed continued support for a strong bilateral relationship between the United States and Malaysia in such areas as counter-terrorism, counter-narcotics and trade.

Malaysia has made tremendous strides toward democracy and economic growth since gaining independence from the United Kingdom on August 31, 1957. The relationship between the U.S. and Malaysia flourished after Malaysia gained independence. Today, Malaysia is a middle-income country with a multi-sector economy based on services and manufacturing. Our two countries have a vested interest in seeing Malaysia continue as a prosperous democracy as Malaysia is our 10th largest trading partner and we are Malaysia’s largest foreign investor.

“The government of Malaysia is committed to racial and religious tolerance, gender equality, and the eradication of poverty” stated Meeks. “The government has made strides in providing assistance to all sectors of the society including ensuring open and free markets, support for ethnic and indigenous groups, and promoting education for all. Malaysia is an ambitious nation that has set a national goal to become a fully developed economy by the year 2020.”

Not only has Malaysia progressed in the areas of social and economic development but Malaysia is a key ally to the U.S. in the fight against terrorism and narcotics. In 2002, Malaysia signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. that created a framework for counter-terrorism cooperation through intelligence sharing and participation in law enforcement activities. As a moderate Islamic nation Malaysia has an opportunity to influence other Islamic communities in Southeast Asia.

Rep. Meeks, a member of the House Foreign Relations Committee, said “Malaysia has come a long way and, as an ally to the U.S., I would like to commend Malaysia for its continued progress and remarkable achievements and congratulate the people of Malaysia in their celebration of 50 years of independence.”