Meeks Statement Congratulating Malaysia in its 50th Year of Independence
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Malaysia's 50th anniversary of Independence. Since Malaysia gained its independence from the United Kingdom on August 31, 1957, Malaysia has made tremendous progress toward democracy and economic growth. The road to democracy and economic stability has not been easy, with a number of bumps along the way; however, I believe it is important to recognize Malaysia's perseverance in moving its democracy and economy forward.
Today, Malaysia is a middle-income country with a multi-sector economy based on services and manufacturing. It is now our 10th largest trading partner and we are Malaysia's largest foreign investor. Since its independence, Malaysia has had one of the best economic records in Asia. Malaysia's GDP has grown by an average of 6.5% per year since 1957. The Malaysian government has taken an active role in ensuring that its economic development also benefits marginalized groups, such as the ethnic Malays and other indigenous groups. Through economic programs, such as the New Economic Policy of 1971, the National Development policy, and the National Vision Policy, Malaysia has demonstrated its commitment to eradicate poverty, enhance the economic standing of ethnic and indigenous groups, promote education, and its intent to focus on higher-technology production. I believe it is also commendable that Malaysia has set a national goal to become a fully developed economy by the year 2020. With its historical progress, I believe it is feasible and I look forward to witnessing their progress and deepening our bilateral relations in the years to come.
In addition to our robust economic ties with Malaysia, I would also like to highlight our joint efforts to combat international terrorism. Malaysia has been a key ally to the U.S. and a leader in counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics in Southeast Asia. Through intelligence sharing, close cooperation in law enforcement, participation in joint exercises and trainings, Malaysia has been a tremendous partner in security cooperation. In May 2002, Malaysia signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. on counterterrorism and we made a joint declaration that provides a framework for counterterrorism cooperation. As a progressive and moderate Muslim nation, Malaysia is a good example of a modern, prosperous, multi-racial, and multi-religious society.
Since coming to power in 2003, Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi has provided opportunities for the U.S. to improve diplomatic and political relations with Southeast Asian nations. As a moderate secular Islamic nation, Malaysia's experiences and cooperation could play a key role in coping with religious extremism, countering terrorism, and exerting a moderate influence on the Islamic community in Southeast Asia. Under Prime Minister Badawi's leadership, Malaysia is adopting an "Islam Hadhari" approach, which encourages and emphasizes a view of Islam that is focused on development, social justice, and tolerance. Malaysia's progressiveness is highly commendable and has the potential to have great influence internationally.
Malaysia has come a long way and, as a key ally to the United States, 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.