[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 83 (Friday, May 28, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1014]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        CONGRATULATING MALAYSIA IN ITS 50TH YEAR OF INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GREGORY W. MEEKS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 28, 2010

  Mr. MEEKS of New York. Madam Speaker, 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 percent 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.

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