Toast to resilience at Independence Day reception

Azmin and McFeeters (right and second from right) being escorted to the stage during the Independence Day reception hosted by the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur. — Photos: GLENN GUAN/The Star

THE US Embassy’s Independence Day reception was a grand celebration of the 246th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

Some 1,000 guests, including diplomats and representatives of the Malaysian government as well as US and Malaysian companies, attended the event held at Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur.

The guest-of-honour was International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, who was welcomed by US Ambassador to Malaysia Brian McFeeters.

Azmin and McFeeters were escorted by US Marine Corps members to the main stage, where a toast was raised to the success and prosperity of both countries and their governments.

Later, the US Pacific Fleet Big Wave Brass Band from the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, United States, performed the Negaraku and The Star-Spangled Banner national anthems.

In his speech, McFeeters said the partnership and friendship between Malaysia and the US remained deep and strong.

He said both countries remained resilient throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and that he was gratified to be able to host the Independence Day reception with friends and partners.

The US Pacific Fleet Big Wave Brass Band provided entertainment at the event.

“We owe this night in many ways to the exceptional efforts of the Malaysian government in mitigating the spread of Covid-19 and getting the vast majority of its citizens vaccinated.

“All of us at the US Embassy are so proud that the United States was able to contribute to this noble effort about one year ago by donating one million vaccines.

“We’re both stronger when we think, act and strive together.

“The open road lies ahead of us. I hope we can all make that journey together,” McFeeters added.

The theme of this year’s celebration was “Culinary Road Trip” with a focus on American food and automobiles.

The food spread featured selections from various parts of US, including Mid Atlantic buffalo wings, New England clam chowder as well as red, white and blue-themed desserts.

Decked around the ballroom were Harley Davidson motorcycles to exemplify the independent American spirit as well as Tesla automobiles that represent the future and much-needed transition towards electric vehicles.

Throughout the reception, the US Pacific Fleet Big Wave Brass Band put on energetic performances for guests, before a digital display of fireworks marked the end of the event.