Outgoing US Ambassador Edgard Kagan lauds a stronger bilateral partnership and says he will miss Malaysia’s culture and ‘can-lah’ spirit.
KUALA LUMPUR: Outgoing United States Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan has described the bilateral partnership as stronger and more resilient than ever.
Speaking at a farewell reception, Kagan said leaving was a “bittersweet moment” marking the end of his 35-year diplomatic career. He confirmed his final departure from Malaysia will be on February 15.
“The bitter part for me is that I will be leaving Malaysia, ending my tour as Ambassador. It is a very tough decision to leave,” Kagan told media.
He expressed pride that the relationship between Kuala Lumpur and Washington is now much stronger than when he arrived. Kagan cited cooperation on regional issues like the Cambodia-Thailand peace agreement and ASEAN as evidence of an effective partnership.
Having served two tours in Malaysia totalling five years, he said the country holds fond memories for his family. He previously served as Deputy Chief of Mission from 2014 to 2017 before returning as Ambassador in December 2023.
“I will miss the culture, the food and the dynamism. But most of all, I will miss Malaysians – their warmth and the ‘Can-lah’ spirit,” he said.
Kagan attributed his decision to leave to personal reasons and a desire to pursue new opportunities. He confirmed he will join a Washington-based think tank focused on Asian studies.
On economic ties, he highlighted long-standing American energy investments in East Malaysia and growing interest in the technology sector. He noted many data centre projects involve American companies or investment.
“The companies that know Malaysia best are willing to increase their exposure and double down,” he added.
Kagan also pointed to successful cooperation in security, science, and people-to-people programmes. He singled out the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) as a cornerstone for strengthening regional connections.
The farewell event was held in conjunction with the launch of the “Freedom 250” Road Show, a year-long initiative marking the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence.
