On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the Malaysian people as you celebrate your fifty-fifth Independence Day this August 31.

The United States and Malaysia share strong bonds of family and friends. This year, our two countries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Peace Corps program in Malaysia, a program that has laid a foundation of friendship and goodwill between our peoples. We are proud of our new Fulbright English Teaching Assistant program that brings talented young Americans to help teach English in Malaysian schools. I look forward to working together to expand U.S.-Malaysia trade, investment and educational and cultural relations to bring greater prosperity to both our peoples.

As you celebrate this special day, know that the United States is a partner and friend. I wish all Malaysians around the world a Happy Merdeka Day. Selamat Hari Kemerdekaan.