KUCHING, Oct 1: The Royal Malaysian Air Forces (RMAF) will soon receive three upgraded CN235 aircraft through the U.S. Maritime Security Initiative, with the first aircraft delivery expected to arrive in Kuching in the coming months.
It was understood from United States Ambassador to Malaysia Brian David McFeeters that the upgrade will increase RMAF maritime patrolling capabilities in the South China Sea.
This was among some examples of the US partnership in Sarawak as mentioned during McFeeters virtual visit to the State through a series of meetings with Sarawak government officials, businesses, NGOs and Sarawakian alumni of US Embassy exchange programs.
During his virtual visit, McFeeters had met with Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, as well as the Minister in charge of Health Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian to discuss on US government’s desire to strengthen the US-Sarawak public health partnership with both leaders.
“The United States will continue to work with partners in Sarawak to promote Sarawak’s security and prosperity. I’ve highlighted our government’s commitment to security cooperation and discussed shared priorities to address border security, human rights, and issues pertaining to the stateless community in the state with Uggah and opposition leader Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh.
“As Covid-19 remains the top priority for the US, the US Embassy will continue to assist Malaysia to fight the pandemic. In addition to the one million doses of Pfizer vaccines donated to Malaysia in July, RM2 million was also provided for ambulance donations and other support to the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC) in Sabah and Sarawak last year.
“The US will also continue to support and encourage research partnerships that help to identify future zoonotic diseases and their threats, such as that between Duke University and Sibu Hospital,” McFeeters said.
The US government is also focusing on climate change and its desire to support Sarawak in pursuing its clean energy agenda.
McFeeters asserted that it is the US government’s interest to provide technical assistance and exchanging best practices in green energy technology, conservation, and biotech to tackle climate crises.
He also discussed with Uggah the potential of importing US technology and products to support Malaysian companies in their clean energy agenda; and exploring ways on how scientific and research cooperation with US firms can be increased.
In addition, he added that the US remain committed to pursuing digital inclusion and youth empowerment with Sarawak through their partnership with Pustaka Negeri Sarawak to host American Corner (AC) Sarawak.
The AC Sarawak corner is a platform for Sarawakians to visit and learn more about the United States and the US-Malaysia partnership.
“AC Sarawak has been vital in organizing education outreach and programs that encourage and support young makers and creators through access to technology and other resources.
“Over the coming year, AC Sarawak will focus on programs related to digital literacy and digital economy,” he explained.
Earlier today, McFeeters also took the opportunity to meet members of the media in Sarawak virtually. — DayakDaily
