Nick Adams’ nomination as US ambassador to Malaysia lapses; he hints at new role soon.
PETALING JAYA: US President Donald Trump has withdrawn controversial Australian-American Nick Adams as his nominee for ambassador to Malaysia, though Adams claims he has been “promoted” to a new role to be announced soon.
Adams, a staunch MAGA supporter and author, was nominated last July but his appointment was never confirmed by the Senate and lapsed at the end of 2023. He was absent from subsequent lists of resubmitted nominations, including those for Hungary, Norway, and the Philippines.
In an email to The Sydney Morning Herald, Adams confirmed he would not take up the Malaysian ambassador role but teased a “major announcement” on social media. The White House has not commented.
Born in Sydney, Adams was once Australia’s youngest deputy mayor at 21, serving on the Ashfield Council. He later moved to the US, became a citizen, and founded the Foundation for Liberty and American Greatness, promoting American values to schools.
Adams has drawn attention for his outspoken “alpha male” persona and controversial remarks, including disparaging comments about Islam and Palestinians. His nomination sparked protests in Kuala Lumpur last July, with demonstrators accusing him of being “anti-Islam and pro-Zionist.”
Trump has yet to appoint an ambassador to Australia, saying he wants a candidate acceptable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. During his first term, Trump delayed appointments to Canberra until his second year in office.
