Protesters urge US to drop envoy nominee over 'divisive' views

Summary

• A coalition of youth wings of political parties, civil society and student groups submitted a memorandum to the US Embassy opposing Nick Adams’ nomination as ambassador to Malaysia.

• Protestors cited Adams’ Islamophobic, misogynistic and Zionist views, warning his rhetoric threatens bilateral ties and offends Malaysian values.

• The coalition urged Washington to appoint a professional diplomat who respects Malaysia’s culture and promotes stable relations.

A coalition comprising the youth wings of political parties, civil society organisations, and student groups submitted a memorandum objecting to Nick Adams’ nomination as the United States ambassador to Malaysia.

The memorandum, which was submitted by the coalition’s representatives to an officer at the United States Embassy in Kuala Lumpur today, detailed the group’s grievances with Adams.

Before the submission, a crowd of about 50 protesters had gathered near the embassy.

Under the watchful eye of police personnel, who had earlier barricaded a section of the road leading to the embassy, the protestors milled around while several speeches were delivered.

In his speech, DAP Youth vice chief Iskandar Fareez said the US ambassador to Malaysia position should be awarded to a diplomat who is capable of handling relevant tasks.

“This posting is not a paid holiday job for any loyalist, nor is it for any Tom, Dick, or Nick.

“This position is meant for a diplomat. Especially in the very uncertain world we’re living in today, we need a diplomat with a steady hand who understands Malaysia’s culture and nuances,” he added.

Expressing doubt over whether Adams would be open to holding discussions, Iskandar stressed that the rejection of him is based on his stance on vital matters.

“Everyone should think of the consequences if a person of such character - or lack thereof - is allowed to become an ambassador,” he said.

‘Islamophobic, misogynistic, Zionist’

Speaking to reporters after handing over the memorandum, PKR Youth deputy chief Izuan Kasim said the embassy’s officer expressed commitment to raise the concerns with the US government.

“Adams’ nomination is Trump’s prerogative, but under the Vienna Convention, Malaysia as a sovereign nation has the power to reject any foreign diplomatic candidate.

“(Adams is) Islamophobic, misogynistic, a Zionist, and a strong supporter of genocide... (Malaysia) has a right to reject him without providing any reason, although we have thousands (of concerns).”

According to a copy of the memorandum shared with the media, Adams’ “divisive rhetoric” was cited as one of the coalition’s grounds for objecting to his nomination.

They also cautioned that Adams’ remarks against Islam have offended Muslim communities worldwide and risk undermining public perception of bilateral relations between Malaysia and the US.

The coalition also pointed to Adams’ statements appearing “dismissive of gender equality and social sensitivity”, asserting that such an attitude contravenes Malaysia’s inclusive values and culture of mutual respect.

Urging Washington to withdraw Adams’ nomination, the coalition called for a candidate who is “moderate, professional, and sensitive to international values, Malaysian cultural norms, and regional stability interests”.

They also said the diplomatic representative to Malaysia should foster close and harmonious bilateral relations while respecting local sensitivities.

Adams has been facing mounting rejection calls from various quarters in Malaysia since US President Donald Trump nominated him last week.

The 40-year-old Australian-American influencer, author, and self-described “alpha male” would be replacing Edgard Kagan, a career diplomat who was nominated by former president Joe Biden in May 2023.

Adams is infamous for his posts promoting a personal image based on stereotypical symbols of masculinity, as well as making Islamophobic remarks.

He is also an avowed Zionist, with former Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin sharing a post by Adams last year, in which the latter bragged about getting a waiter wearing a “free Palestine” pin to be fired.

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