President Barack Obama’s visit to Malaysia over the weekend came at a pivotal time. This would be an opportune moment to live up to the ideals Obama espoused in his campaign and the early days of his administration. Then, there was hope that US engagement with Muslim countries would be based on mutual respect and mutual interest. Yet as the Arab Spring came and went, hope was eclipsed by disappointment. It is baffling that the United States can talk about a democratic transition in Egypt today as hundreds of innocent people are sentenced to death while thousands languish in prison.