KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will likely send a "ready-made" career diplomat as its next ambassador to the United States, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
The Foreign Minister said that his ministry has considered the suitability of a career diplomat with extensive experience in international relations, particularly in negotiations at the global level, given that the US is under a new administration led by President Donald Trump.
"We need a highly qualified expert, to oversee bilateral relations, not just for Asean, but specifically between Malaysia and the US," he told reporters after speaking at the Concorde Club meeting on Monday (Feb 24).
The Concorde Club is an informal gathering of editors and senior journalists with politicians, policymakers and key opinion leaders.
Previous guests of the Concorde Club, led by Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, included senior ministers and government leaders.
Mohamad said that Malaysia's trade relations with the US are significant, and the appointment of the ambassador to the US must be considered properly.
"We require an individual who is well-versed in international relations and diplomacy, as their expertise will be crucial in ensuring that they can immediately carry out their duties effectively.
"This is also especially important in our efforts to organise a special Asean-US summit this year.
"By achieving this, we can ensure the continuation and strengthening of Malaysia-US bilateral ties, which are of great importance to our nation," he said.
Asked if it will be finalised by March, the Foreign Minister said that once the necessary approval processes are completed, Malaysia will submit an agreement request, our formal application for the appointment of the country's envoy.
"If the US government grants approval, we will then seek the royal consent from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for the ambassador’s appointment.
"Once this process is finalised, the ambassador will be dispatched immediately and the individual can commence his or her duties without needing an adjustment period.
"This is why we are selecting someone who is already highly experienced in international relations," he said.
On Feb 14, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed that there is already a candidate for Malaysia’s ambassador to the United States.
“As per the usual process, it will have to be consented to by the King," said Anwar.
This comes after Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz’s two-year term ended on Feb 8.
