THE United States will provide RM1.1 million to fund the restoration of Tugu Negara ahead of Malaysia’s 70th independence anniversary next year, reinforcing Washington’s commitment to preserving the country’s national heritage and strengthening bilateral ties.
The grant will be channelled to Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) through the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), with the restoration project to be carried out by the Malaysian Government and expected to begin next year.
US chargé d’affaires David H Gamble Jr said the initiative reflected the strong historical connection between the two countries, particularly as Tugu Negara was designed by American sculptor Felix de Weldon.
He said de Weldon also designed the United States Marine Corps War Memorial, better known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, in Washington DC.
“In view of this, I am pleased to announce that the United States Department of State has approved a RM1 million grant for the conservation works at Tugu Negara.
“As you know, in Washington DC, there is a similar memorial, the United States Marine Corps War Memorial, or better known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, because both monuments were created by the same sculptor, Felix de Weldon.
“He also came to Malaysia. With the striking similarities between the two monuments and how they have strengthened ties between our countries, we worked for several months and successfully secured approval to provide RM1 million to Malaysia.
“This funding is intended to ensure that Tugu Negara remains in good condition ahead of an important anniversary for the country next year,” he said after officiating the Freedom 250 Reception - Celebrating 250 Years of American Independence in the capital on Thursday.
The project will be implemented by the Malaysian Government, with UMK leading the conservation and knowledge-transfer component.
The restoration will address deterioration caused by prolonged exposure to Malaysia’s tropical climate, as well as damage sustained during the 1975 bombing of the monument.
More than 50 Malaysian conservation students and heritage professionals are also expected to receive hands-on training as part of the project, helping to strengthen local expertise in heritage preservation.
Earlier, US Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Cate Dillon paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for Malaysia’s peace and independence during a wreath-laying ceremony at Tugu Negara.
Dillon was accompanied by Gamble and US defence attaché Captain Sean Hays, and received by Royal Malaysian Air Force Brigadier General Datuk Mohd Sam Mohd Yusof and Colonel Mior Rasidi Mohamad Idris of the Malaysian Armed Forces Headquarters.
The US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur said the ceremony and restoration initiative reflected the importance of mutual respect for the national heritage and history of both countries.
“From cultural preservation to diplomatic and security cooperation, the US remains committed to honouring Malaysia’s vibrant history while strengthening our shared future,” it said.
The restoration is expected to be completed before Aug 31, 2027, ensuring that Tugu Negara is preserved for the country’s 70th independence anniversary and future generations. - September 8, 2026
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