KUALA LUMPUR: Four outstanding Malaysian youths have been accepted to continue their studies at prestigious service academies in the United States (US) and prepare to become future Malaysian military officers.

       Edlan Mikyad Ahmad Syamly, 20, has been appointed to the US Military Academy at West Point, New York, while Zarif Mohd Zamrin, 20, has been appointed to the US Air Force Academy in Colorado.

       Both are National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) students.

       Royal Military College Malaysia students Muahamad Danish Imran Zainuddin, 18, and Qarin Lokman Safriza, 18, meanwhile, will attend the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

       US embassy charge d'affaires Michael Newbill said less than 20% of 69 international applicants were selected for the 60 spots available at the three service academies.

       "Congratulations to the cadets and their families for this incredible achievement," he said during the send-off ceremony at the Official Residence of the US Ambassador to Malaysia on Tuesday (June 7).

       He said the students underwent a rigorous selection process that evaluated their leadership potential, physical fitness and academic achievements.

       The students will be at the academies for four years.

       To date, 36 Malaysians have graduated from the US service academies since 1971.