KUALA LUMPUR: It was a distinguished commemoration of the 247th anniversary of the founding of the United States at the US Embassy's Independence Day reception.
About 1,000 guests, including diplomats, representatives of the Malaysian government, local MPs, as well as US and local companies, attended the event held at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur here on Tuesday (June 27).
Independence Day in the United States falls on July 4.
Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad was the guest of honour. He was welcomed by the US Ambassador to Malaysia Brian McFeeters.
Both Nik Nazmi and McFeeters were escorted by US Marine Corps personnel to the main stage, where they both toasted the prosperity and well-being of both governments and countries.
The national anthems of both countries, the Negaraku, and the Star-Spangled Banner, were played.
After that, a branch of the US Marine Corps delivered a musical showcase.
The III Marine Expeditionary Force Band based in Okinawa, Japan, took to the stage to deliver several renditions of popular songs.
In his speech, McFeeters said the event was a celebration of the United States' freedom, liberty and independence.
"Independence Day is a day of history, of hope, remembrance and resolve, and of promise and possibilities," he added.
He also said the event was a celebration of the deep and enduring comprehensive partnership between the United States and Malaysia.
The theme of this year's celebration was red, white, blue and green which McFeeters said represents care for the planet, protecting the environment, the need to combat climate change and ensuring the sustainability of planet Earth.
"The effects of climate change are undeniable, with severe consequences such as tragic floods in Malaysia and the unprecedented forest fires in the United States.
"But more importantly, my main message to you all is that I see reasons for optimism," said McFeeters, adding this was because governments, businesses, and individuals around the world are taking significant steps to tackle climate change.
"For example, under Nik Nazmi's leadership, the Malaysian government is raising targets for renewable energy generation and Malaysia has real potential to be a global leader in carbon capture and storage," he said.
McFeeters also mentioned the ongoing Energy Asia conference, which concludes Tuesday, as one of Malaysia's steps to tackle climate change.
"There is also reason for optimism because that energy transition is underway. In the United States, solar and wind are now providing more electrical power than coal, a first," added McFeeters.
McFeeters said the climate crisis is critical, but noted that emphasis should be given on the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
"We affirm support for the people of Ukraine, continuing to bravely defend their territory in the face of Russia's violations of the core principles of the United Nations charter - sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence," he said.
