US gives Malaysia RM1mil for restoration of national monument

PETALING JAYA: The US government has agreed to give RM1 million to Malaysia for the restoration of the national monument, or Tugu Negara.

This was revealed by the US embassy’s chargé d’affaires, David H Gamble Jr, at an event to celebrate 250 years of American independence in Kuala Lumpur, today.

He said it was a gift from the US government and the American people to mark the 70th anniversary of Malaysia’s independence next year, Bernama reported.

Gamble said there is a similar monument in Washington, DC – the Iwo Jima Memorial – which is recognised as America’s national monument.

He added that both monuments were designed by the same sculptor, and this underscored the historical connection between the two nations.

“Given the striking similarities and how these two monuments bind our countries together, we were able to get permission from our government to give RM1 million to Malaysia on behalf of the American people.

“So that Tugu Negara is ready for your big anniversary next year,” he was quoted as saying at the event hosted by the US embassy at a hotel in the city.

Investment, trade and industry minister Johari Ghani, attended the reception as the guest of honour.

Reflecting on bilateral ties, Gamble said the relationship between the US and Malaysia had been on “hyperdrive” this year.

“It started before the president (Donald Trump) came here, but even since then, all these new opportunities are opening up for Malaysia and for the US, going back and forth,” he said.

He added that the US remains Malaysia’s largest trading partner, with American companies having supported the growth and created around 300,000 jobs in the country.

“When you look at American companies operating here in Malaysia, there’s not thousands of foreign workers there. It’s full of Malaysians, and that’s how it should be.

“We’re bringing something here so that it’s a true partnership where both sides win. We’re not here to run the show. We’re here to partner with Malaysia,” he said.