A former political counsellor at the US embassy in Kuala Lumpur has returned to Malaysia as the new US ambassador, replacing Kamala Shirin Lakhdhir.
Brian McFeeters previously served at the US embassy from 2009 to 2011.
“It is wonderful to be back in Malaysia. During my time here 10 years ago I was privileged to meet and work with many talented and dedicated Malaysians,” he said in a statement released by the embassy to announce his appointment.
“Our overall goal is stronger relations with the Malaysian people and government.”
McFeeters, who was nominated under the Donald Trump administration last year, also speaks Bahasa Malaysia and Bahasa Indonesia.
He is widely seen as familiar with Southeast Asia, having served in Jakarta and Seoul.
His last posting was as deputy ambassador in Iraq.
He was also deputy chief of mission at the US embassy in Jakarta and deputy political counsellor in Seoul.