US Ambassador to Malaysia Hosts US 247th Independence Day Celebration In KL

KUALA LUMPUR, June 28 (Bernama) -- The United States (US) Ambassador to Malaysia Brian McFeeters on Tuesday hosted an early celebration ceremony of the US 247th Independence Day which is celebrated on July 4.

The event, held at a renowned hotel here, was attended by some 1,000 guests including foreign heads of missions, Malaysian government officials, and business leaders.

The guest-of-honour was Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad who represented the Malaysian government.

Nik Nazmi and McFeeters also raised a toast to the success and prosperity of both countries as well as to the US President Joe Biden and Malaysia’s King Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and QueenTunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.

McFeeters in his speech said the theme of the event -- Red, White, Blue, and Green -- was about the planet, protecting the environment, taking on the climate crisis, and ensuring the sustainability of the earth.

The senior diplomat said the effects of climate change were undeniable, with severe consequences such as tragic floods in Malaysia, and unprecedented forest fires in the US.

“But even more important, my main message to you all, is that I see reasons for optimism. Optimism because governments, businesses, and individuals around the world are taking significant steps to address climate change,” he said.

Citing Malaysia as an example, McFeeters said the government is raising the targets for renewable energy generation; and Malaysia also has real potential to be a global leader in carbon capture and storage.

“And I am optimistic because Malaysia is hosting Asia Energy Week 2023 right now, with entrepreneurs and representatives from all over the world, including US Department of Energy Assistant Secretary Brad Crabtree, to focus on the needed energy transition,” he added.

McFeeters noted that energy transition is also underway in the US with solar and wind now providing more electrical power than coal, adding that the US companies in Malaysia can also play an important role in this challenge. 

A few examples of the efforts by American companies to drive innovation in green technology were also displayed at the event.

The event also featured stage performance by the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band.

July 4 marks the 247th anniversary of the United States’ declaration of independence and is celebrated annually as national holiday in the US.

-- BERNAMA