Speaking to the press after an official meeting with foreign affairs minister Saifuddin Abdullah today, US secretary of state Antony John Blinken said they had been identifying more investment opportunities for American firms over the last week.

“This week, we have seen American companies announcing significant new investment deals,” he said.

“We’re also working closely with Malaysia, as the third largest economy in Southeast Asia and our second largest trade partner in the region, to strengthen post-Covid economic recovery.”

Blinken said the US is the second largest foreign investor in Malaysia, especially in the electronics sector.

He said the US is also seeking to strengthen semiconductor supply chains together with Malaysia and the private sector.

On the South China Sea, Blinken said the US agreed that all disputes be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law.

“All claimants should be able to develop their national resources in their exclusive economic zones free from coercion.”

He said the US shared similar principles with Asean in developing its own framework for the region.

“The US will work closely with Malaysia and other partners to carry the vision forward,” he said.

Saifuddin said there could also be possible cooperation for the research and development of new kinds of vaccines and also cooperation between Malaysian and US companies in the production of vaccines.

“On vaccine development, I think we agreed we have to be more prepared for the future,” he said.

He called on the US to strongly consider investing in the creation of high-value start-up companies as well as other initiatives under the MyDIGITAL programme.

“We also welcome more US participation and investments in the various digital connectivity projects in the remote and rural areas in Malaysia,” he said.