In a post on X, the US embassy in Malaysia congratulated Edlan on the achievement, describing it as a reflection of both personal determination and the longstanding defence and educational partnership between Malaysia and the US.

“By training alongside international peers, leaders like Edlan foster global networks of cooperation, trust and shared values that strengthen our nations’ bilateral ties,” it said.

The embassy also commended Edlan’s family for their support throughout his studies.

“We wish Edlan the very best as he returns to serve Malaysia with distinction,” it said.

In June last year, the embassy said 40 Malaysians had graduated from US service academies since 1971.

In 2021, the US Indo-Pacific Command – the regional military command of the US responsible for military operations and security cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region – said 12 Malaysians had graduated from West Point.