He said the strong ties between the nations over the years had resulted in numerous successful programmes such as the English Teaching Assistant (ETA) course.

However, he also emphasised the importance of understanding the needs of the people in both countries and determining what the governments and other parties can do to effectively fulfil these needs.

“It is fair to say that a lot of people raise this (English teaching programmes) with me, but for now we don’t have a plan. What we are trying to do is figure out what people want and what we can do. We have existing programmes and a lot of exchange initiatives.”

He added that the ETA was halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic and at the request of the Malaysian government.

“I think the key is that we need to speak candidly with each other about what we want and what we can do. Anything we undertake must be a genuine partnership between our two countries,” he told reporters at the launch of the American Green Corner at the state library in Tanjung Aru last night.

The launch was officiated by Sabah science, technology and innovation minister Arifin Arif on behalf of chief minister Hajiji Noor.

Arifin said Sabah had greatly benefited from the US-Malaysia partnership, particularly through English teaching programmes. He expressed hope for the revival of the ETA to assist the younger generation, especially in rural areas, in mastering the language.

“It is highly beneficial for our children in Sabah as we prioritise the development of English, science, and technology. Their (US) expertise as native speakers of the language can greatly assist us in this endeavour. We welcome their involvement wholeheartedly,” he said.

Arifin also expressed hope for US assistance in fostering interest and knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among Sabah’s younger generation through partnership or exchange programmes.