(Nov 5, 2008) : Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi hopes Senator Barack Obama's election as president of the United States will bring positive changes to the world.
In congratulating Obama for being the first African-American to win the White House race, Abdullah said:
"His victory is expected to bring changes in the affairs of the US, I hope the Obama presidency will also bring positive changes to the world."I hope president-elect Obama will give immediate attention to address the situation in Iraq, Afghanistan and in particular Palestine. I hope there will also be positive changes to the situation concerning Iran," he told a press conference at Parliament.
On ties with the United States, Abdullah said he looks forward to a new era of friendlier relations between Malaysia and US. Continue here.
And here’s what our leaders say. All of them see Obama’s victory as reflecting an important change in the American mindset.
Leaders elated over Obama's election –Malaysiakini
Foreign Affairs Minister Rais Yatim: "Malaysia... hopes Obama's government will be more sensitive to the sovereignty of smaller nations and will not use force in resolving global conflicts," he said in a statement.
Malaysia welcomes him as the new light in the struggle for democracy.
As America's first black president his victory has shown that Americans can accept a leader regardless of colour, religion or beliefs."
"Obama's victory is seen as bringing change and hope to the world." Lim Guan Eng, Penang Chief Minister and DAP secretary-general:
Obama’s rise to arguably the most powerful position in the world augurs well for global politics, said Lim. He described the landslide win as a symbol of transformation of the American mindset. “The Americans have voted in a president based on character and the principles of rule of law, equality, human rights, justice and democracy, rather than colour of skin,” he said. Anwar Ibrahim: Obama's decisive victory signals a new chapter in the history of America, said the Opposition leader."His call for unity and his promise to forge a new direction in the relationship between the US and the rest of the world is welcomed by Malaysians.
"The support that president-elect Obama draws from across racial, religious and generational lines parallels the sentiments felt by Malaysians from all walks of life who earlier this year cast votes in vehement opposition to the failed policies of an incumbent regime," he said in a statement.Anwar added that nations which have been at odds with the US may now find opportunities to cooperate on issues of foreign policy, sustainable development and the environment.
"His administration also brings renewed prospects for engagement between the United States and Muslim countries.
"Some of the most contentious issues of our time, including the ongoing conflicts and confrontations in the Middle East, require a commitment to diplomacy, a willingness to engage in a meaningful dialogue and a departure from the aggressive unilateralism witnessed in recent years.
"In this we anticipate that president-elect Obama will show leadership where previous administrations have failed." - Excerpts from Malaysia kini .
