KUCHING: The United States (US) will increase its engagement in Sarawak and Sabah despite budget constraints, making the reopening of a U.S. consulate in Kuching unlikely in the near term.
US Ambassador to Malaysia, Edgar D. Kagan, acknowledged the strong case for a consulate in Kuching but said current fiscal pressures in Washington make it difficult.
“While I don’t make that decision and it’s not going to happen in the short term, I’ve directed our embassy team to visit more often and engage more broadly in Sabah and Sarawak,” he said at a press conference at the Sarawak State Library today, noting that understanding the states fully requires engagement beyond the capital cities.
Kagan said increased outreach in East Malaysia is in the interest of both countries, noting that the US Embassy would prioritise wider engagement across communities and sectors.
As part of his visit, Kagan bade farewell and made courtesy calls on Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian, and the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, describing the discussions as warm, candid and productive.
He also highlighted Sarawak’s appeal as a tourism destination, encouraging more Americans to visit the state and singling out sites such as Kuching, the Mulu Caves, Bario, Bako National Park, and the Semenggoh Orangutan Centre.
“The fact that you can be in Kuching and within 40 minutes see orangutans in a natural setting is extraordinary,” he said, adding that Sarawak’s unique culture, natural heritage and hospitality make it a special place to visit.
Kagan also praised cultural institutions in the state, describing the Borneo Cultures Museum as world-class and commending the Tun Jugah Foundation for its role in preserving Iban culture and training a new generation in traditional crafts.
On bilateral ties, he said the US-Malaysia relationship has grown stronger and more expansive in recent years, benefiting both countries and the wider region.
He pointed to long-standing US investment in Malaysia and close people-to-people links, particularly through education and business.
“The United States and Malaysia are much stronger when we work together,” he said, adding that cooperation has expanded into more areas and delivered tangible benefits.
Kagan, who will leave his post on February 15, said he intends to continue advocating for strong US-Malaysia relations even after leaving government service, expressing confidence that the partnership holds “huge opportunities” for the future.
