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MALAYSIA retains the sovereign right to accept or reject any individual proposed as a foreign envoy, including the nomination of Nick Adams as the next United States Ambassador to Malaysia, said Government Spokesperson Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
Responding to widespread criticism surrounding the proposed appointment of the conservative commentator and author, Fahmi said, “In the realm of diplomacy, as the host country, a government must accept the name proposed by the sending nation. However, it is within our sovereign rights to determine whether to accept or decline the nomination.”
He added, “If we examine diplomatic norms, even when Malaysia nominates a representative to a foreign country, it requires approval from the host nation.”
Speaking at a press conference following the appointment ceremony for founding board members of the Malaysian Media Council, Fahmi confirmed that the Cabinet had yet to receive any formal memorandum from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra) regarding Adams’ nomination.
“Typically, any appointment of a foreign envoy will be accompanied by a memorandum from Wisma Putra to the Cabinet. As of now, this matter has not yet been presented to the Cabinet. Perhaps we will be updated in due course, but at present, no submission has been received,” he said.
Therefore, he stressed, the government will make a decision only after the matter is formally brought to Cabinet.
Adams’ nomination, announced by former US President Donald Trump via his Truth Social platform, has triggered objections from various quarters in Malaysia, including local politicians.
Trump described Adams as “an outstanding nationalist” and “a highly successful entrepreneur,” praising his dedication to what he termed “American Excellence Values.”
Malaysia’s response to the nomination will hinge on established diplomatic procedures and its national interest, said Fahmi. - July 15, 2025