Under the Obama administration’s pivot to Asia, the personal appeal of the most Southeast Asian of US presidents defined the sensibility of the partnership between the US and Malaysia. However, with the end of the Obama administration came changes, including Donald Trump’s presidency and his actions that stirred controversy.
Despite the challenges, Malaysia and the US maintained relations, but issues such as the 1MDB scandal added strain. Efforts to rekindle the partnership under the Biden administration have been made, but obstacles remain, including differing stances on China and Palestine.
As the partnership approaches its 10th anniversary, it faces new realities and constraints that require a re-evaluation. While the two countries have maintained a long-term friendship, evolving global dynamics necessitate a fresh look at the relationship.
Amidst competing pressures and changing geopolitical landscapes, a mature US-Malaysia partnership must navigate challenges while exploring new possibilities based on shared interests and constraints.
Elina Noor is a senior fellow in the Asia Programme at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
\
[ad_2]
Source link
