KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 — The United States Embassy in Malaysia today hosted a virtual send-off ceremony to mark the appointment of two Malaysian cadets who have been accepted to continue their studies in the country’s two prestigious service academies this year.
US Ambassador to Malaysia Brian D. McFeeters said both cadets, Mohamad Khairel Adha Mohd Khairee and Nicholas Ong Yong Xen were chosen after a rigorous selection process that evaluated their leadership potential, physical fitness and academic achievements.
Nicholas has been accepted to the US Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, Maryland to study Cyber Operations, while Mohamed Khairel Adha will attend the US Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, Colorado and study Aeronautical Engineering, both for a four-year duration.
“Malaysians who study at the US service academies serve as ambassadors of Malaysia to the US and make lifelong connections with US service members and citizens.
“These bonds continue to strengthen our relationships. Cadets Nicholas and Khairel are joining the ranks of these impressive Malaysians today,” he said in his welcoming remarks.
Also present were Assistant Chief of Staff, Defence Operation and Training, Malaysian Armed Forces Lt Gen Datuk Hashim Aman Shah and Chief of Office of Defense Cooperation at the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur Lieutenant Colonel Lemar Farhad.
To date, a total of 34 Malaysians have graduated from four US service academies, the first cadet attended the US Naval Academy Class of 1971, while thirteen completed their program at USNA, four from the USAFA, twelve from West Point and five graduated from the US Coast Guard Academy.
Sources: BERNAMA
