TWENTY-THREE exceptional secondary school students from across the country are now serving as “youth ambassadors” to foster mutual understanding between Malaysia and the United States.
The cohort departed for the US to participate in the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program on Jan 20.
The departure, organised by the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur in partnership with Yayasan AFS Antarabudaya Malaysia, marks the start of a six-month journey focused on cultural immersion and leadership.
The students landed at JFK Airport in New York before proceeding to Newark, New Jersey, for programme orientation.
During their stay, the Malaysian participants will live with volunteer American host families, providing a firsthand look into US society and values; attend local American high schools; and participate in various extracurricular activities.
They will also acquire critical leadership skills through community service, and educate their host communities about the rich diversity of Malaysian heritage, traditions and perspectives.
Speaking at the send-off ceremony, David “Chip” Gamble, deputy chief of mission at the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, hailed the programme as a meaningful educational
experience that produces well-equipped individuals.
He highlighted the unique synergy between the two nations’ academic styles, describing the Malaysian education system as “deep and specialised”, while noting that the American system is “broad” and focused on interdisciplinary connections.
“What a cool combination that is, and so I’m excited for all of you – not only for what you’ll do in America, but also what you’ll do when you return and combine these two experiences.
“People-to-people connections are at the heart of our relationship,” said Gamble.
Established by the US Congress in 2002, the YES programme was created to promote global harmony and build bridges between American citizens and countries worldwide, particularly those with significant Muslim populations.
The programme is fully funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
