Volume 3 2019 DIPLOMATIC A TRIANNUAL PUBLICATION OF THE INSTITUTE OF DIPLOMACY AND FOREIGN RELATIONS, MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, VOICE ISSN 2289-1277

Diploma in Diplomacy 2019’s Graduation Ceremony

In line with the aspiration to train inculcate the right attitude, mindset competitive representatives of the and produce high quality diplomats, as well as values in the participants country in international fora and no IDFR once again hosted the Diploma to better equip themselves on matter where they are posted to. At in Diplomacy 2019’s Graduation matters pertaining to the roles, the end of his remarks, Dato’ Mohd Ceremony on 11 October 2019 at Le responsibilities, and dynamics of Zamruni stressed the importance of a Meridien Hotel, . Twenty- Foreign Service in the new era. lifelong learning process, as diplomacy one junior officers from the Ministry of is a knowledge-intensive profession Foreign Affairs and Prime Minister’s The ceremony commenced with and further stated that the pursuit of Office celebrated the end of their six- welcoming remarks by the newly- knowledge, however, should also be month journey at the completion of the appointed Director General of IDFR, complemented with the right values and Diploma in Diplomacy programme. The Dato’ Mohd Zamruni Khalid. In his character. DiD programme, held from 11 February Remarks, Dato’ Mohd Zamruni to 23 August 2019, aims to develop congratulated the DiD participants The guest of honour at the ceremony holistic diplomats by enhancing the upon completion of the six-month was The Honourable Dato’ Marzuki participants’ skills and knowledge in programme and expressed his hope Hj. Yahya, Deputy Minister of Foreign the field of diplomacy and international that the graduates, through the Affairs, Malaysia. In his Address, Dato’ relations. In addition, the programme trainings and exposures in IDFR, will Marzuki congratulated the graduates also creates a learning platform to become high quality diplomats and for completing the programme and

Continued on page 17 CONTENTS

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We Are All in This Together: An ASEAN Approach to Climate Change

Norraihan Zakaria Imran Hakim Mohamedsha

Introduction the best strategy to tackle this credible GHG emissions in 2014 at 80% of threat. On one hand, climate mitigation total emissions. Therefore, this act of The consequences of climate change is arguably a more optimistic approach institutionalising climate-related policies continue to impact our daily lives. as it assumes that changes in current essentially places the issue of climate Extreme irregularities in climate practices can prevent, or at least, slow change central of policy- and decision- patterns have negative multiplier down, rising temperatures. In contrast, making processes throughout national effects on socioeconomic well-being, the rather practical perspective would policies. Moreover, climate mitigation public health, and economic growth. arguably prefer climate adaptation given can also have positive socioeconomic For instance, prolonged and extreme that climate change is already here, as spillovers as efforts to reduce GHG heatwaves in Europe – with a record- illustrated by extreme changes in global emissions would often rely on breaking 45.9 C in Southern France this climate patterns. But, judging from the investments in alternative technologies summer – have posed substantial health instantaneous and gradual effects of and economic approaches. While risks to the public, especially among climate change, a multiple-pronged mitigation might be perceived as at elderly and children. From Florida to Fiji, strategy that combines both climate odds with private transportation, the more frequent and severe flooding due mitigation and adaptation is essentially prospects of a low or zero emission to the rising sea levels have interrupted required. car can hypothetically expand the economic activities and displaced production capacity and innovation of a coastal communities. Disruption Climate Mitigation car manufacturing nation. in rainfall trends has threatened the agricultural yield in major food Climate mitigation has been at the Climate Adaptation producers, leading to potential global heart of most climate change policies. food shortages. While climate change As the undisputed science behind However, the alarming rate of climate does not discriminate among countries, climate change can be traced back to change has turned a threat deemed its effects are inherently disproportionate unnatural and rapid increases in GHG for the distant tomorrow to the given the stark differences in climate emissions, climate mitigation involves inevitable reality of today. Consequently, resilience. That is, the high financial either reductions in manmade emissions individuals, communities, and nations costs of both combating and recovering or increases in carbon absorption are forced to enhance their adaptive from climate change would amplify its efficiencies. For instance, its scale can capacity – in concurrence with climate effects on poorer countries. Therefore, be observed with the worldwide trends mitigation policies – to offset the lagging considering how climate-induced in phasing out fossil fuels in energy consequences of climate change. That political and economic instabilities generation (e.g., announced closures is, even if the international community (e.g. environmental refugees) can of coal-fired power plants in Germany) managed to reduce GHG emissions spillover beyond national boundaries, and transportation (e.g., future bans as stipulated in the Paris Agreement, a multilateral approach towards climate of vehicles with internal combustion the extent of climate vulnerability will change is indeed necessary. engines), and major reforestations plausibly persist as the Earth gradually efforts in India and Pakistan. In the reconfigures its biological systems to the On April 22, 2016, the world came Malaysian context, recent government pre-heating period. Hence, with extreme together in New York City to sign a policies involving the environment also temperatures, rising sea levels, and landmark agreement within the United incorporate climate mitigation to directly irregular rainfall patterns, governments Nations Framework Convention on and indirectly reduce GHG emissions. all over the world are scrambling to Climate Change (UNFCCC) to combat More specifically, the 2010 National mitigate the extent of climate-induced the looming threat of climate change. Renewable Energy Policy and Action damages to both individuals and vital This agreement, also known as the Paris Plan, 2011 Renewable Energy Act, 2011 infrastructure. For instance, Netherlands Agreement, intends to limit the increase New Energy Policy, and 2015 National has constructed a kilometre-long in global average temperature within Energy Efficiency Action Plan reflected dike underneath a new waterfront this century to 1.5 degrees Celsius, the Government’s aspirations to boulevard in The Hague to enhance mainly through reducing the amount of develop and enhance renewable energy its flood defences due to the greater man-made greenhouse gases (GHG) initiatives. This approach is somewhat occurrences of rising sea level and emissions. However, there have been unsurprising, given that the energy violent storms1 while Bangladeshi rice ideological and practical differences on sector was the largest contributor of farmers have altered their crop options

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in the light of salt water spillover into their to bolster the regional effort to combat instance, the European Commission irrigation canals2. In fact, according to climate change. For instance, the (EC) has outlined its strategic vision the World Bank, cities have transformed inaugural ASEAN Climate Change for a prosperous yet climate-neutral their approach in new urban planning to Partnership Conference organised economy in the EU by 2050. This integrate disaster risk reduction (DDR) by the ASEAN Working Group on unanimously binding initiative, launched efforts in enhancing climate adaptation Climate Change (AWGCC) in June in November 2018, is a long-term towards man-made, climate-induced 2018 illustrated a regional initiative strategy and guiding framework that disasters3. But this approach does to enhance cross-sectoral and multi- streamlines almost all EU climate not imply that climate mitigation does partner coordination in combating policies in supporting the objectives not work or is too slow to combat the climate change4. With a common agreed upon in the Paris Agreement. issues of today – instead, this response platform, Malaysia and other member More specifically, it revolves around allows countries to provide immediate states not only could explore potential investments in realistic technological and short-term reliefs as society adjusts avenues for mutual partnership, but also advancements and renavigations in to the rather bleak future of an ever- raise awareness of the country-specific economic policies whilst ensuring a just changing climate. Yet, the focus on climate issues and best practices – in and fair socioeconomic transition5. For improving infrastructure and individual which the extent of information-sharing example, the EC has proposed EUR30.6 adaptive capacities unsurprisingly is arguably more limited in a bilateral billion in the 2021-2027 EU Budget to comes at a high cost: the 2016 United platform. Furthermore, the lack of such facilitate investments in low- and zero Nations Environment (UNEP) report an avenue could be problematic in cases emission vehicles and infrastructure6. predicted that the cost of climate of cross-border environmental issues While ASEAN inherently differs from the adaptation in developing countries (e.g. a neighbouring country affected by EU with regard to its financial status and could reach USD280 and USD500 the rather lax climate policy) as member extent of political-economic integration, billion annually by 2050. In other words, states would perhaps be reluctant to it could still arguably benefit from even considering the level of socioeconomic bilaterally confront one another. In other a much smaller regional partnership development in those countries, this words, the presence of a collective in mutually beneficial environmental projection merely supports the idea of pressure could nudge countries investments. That is, if ASEAN climate change having disproportionate without efficient climate mitigation manages to demonstrate and reinforce effects on poorer countries. Thus, to and adaptation policies to streamline its commitments in combating climate ensure that developing countries do not upwards to be in line with other member change, it can then attract inward flows face multi-fold consequences of climate states. This approach essentially of climate financing that would further change, major economies should then amplifies the stance of ASEAN and its enhance the scale and effectiveness of step up their efforts to provide climate member states on the pressing need such investments. financing and technological assistance to combat climate change, relative to a to strengthen overall adaptive capacity. bilateral engagement. Finally, ASEAN can form a joint task force to implement regional Role of ASEAN in Combating Secondly, ASEAN can form a new climate strategies. That is, an Climate Change multilateral binding convention on effective multilateral initiative would climate change, akin to the Paris require strong implementation and No man is an island, especially on an Agreement. Given the rather universal enforcement mechanisms to ensure increasingly warming planet. In other nature of the Paris Agreement – albeit that State parties do not falter in their words, despite the commendable rather understandably as it attempts commitments or free-ride other states. efforts of country-level climate policies, to cater to the whole international The Bamako Convention, a treaty a concurrent multilateral approach is community – ASEAN could then signed by 27 African nations in 1991, is possibly more impactful to accelerate formulate, sign, and ratify a regional- an example of a regional policy to ban reduction in GHG emissions and specific, legally-binding, convention on imports of hazardous waste into the increase climate resilience. In the context climate change to magnify multilateral continent. Nonetheless, the absence of Malaysia, greater engagements with efforts to limit increases in average global of a competent authority to enforce ASEAN on combating climate change temperature beyond the targeted 1.5 strict implementations of the treaty can complement the effects of its degrees Celsius. Fortunately, ASEAN and the lack of regional monitoring domestic climate policies: is no stranger to regional treaties and or follow-up among signatories have conventions, such as the Zone of Peace, possibly contributed to the rather Firstly, ASEAN can offer a common Freedom, and Neutrality (ZOPFAN) ineffective deployment and operations platform to streamline and declaration. From an environmental of the Convention7. Thus, ASEAN harmonise climate initiatives among perspective, ASEAN could also replicate, can then form a joint task force or an its Member States. Malaysia can modify, and incorporate key themes and enforcement committee to ensure leverage upon the existing instruments, lessons from the European Union (EU) any adopted regional convention on frameworks, and entities within ASEAN and its multilateral instruments. For climate change will be strictly adhered

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to among Member States. In this case, implications of climate change not for A Clean Planet for All: Industrial Transition. Retrieved on 20 June 2019 from https:// ASEAN could emulate the EU on its contained within national boundaries, ec.europa.eu/clima/sites/clima/files/docs/ emissions monitoring and reporting a collective approach is deemed pages/vision_ 2_industrial_en.pdf mechanisms whereby the EU and its imperative. Despite substantial 7 Jeen, A.Y. (2019). What Asean can do member states conduct concurrent limitations in resources and technical about waste. Retrieved on 1 July 2019 from https://www.thestar.com.my/opinion/ annual monitoring and reporting of GHG capacity, ASEAN Member States letters/2019/07/01/what-asean-can-do-about- inventories, progress projections, and can embark on a more entrenched waste/ domestic strategies whilst providing cooperation that is mutually beneficial to 8 European Commission. (n.d.) Emission monitoring & reporting. Retrieved on 20 June regular progress updates on the regional ensure greater climate resilience. In fact, 2019 from https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/ and individual targets to the UNFCCC8. a regional commitment towards climate strategies/progress/monitoring_en Considering the current role of AWGCC, goals could also elevate the status and ASEAN could then either elevate its relevance of ASEAN in international ------status or include the environmental politics, which can then be leveraged Associate Professor Dr Norraihan Zakaria is ministers from all member states to be to obtain not only greater climate Principal Researcher at the Centre for Political the leading task force in the following: 1) assistance from multilateral agencies Studies and Economic Diplomacy, IDFR. She is formulate effective reporting, monitoring, and established country donors, but on secondment from Universiti Sains Malaysia. and implementing mechanisms; 2) also more favourable geopolitical and Mr. Imran Hakim Mohamedsha was previously conduct frequent and regular cross- geo-economic concessions in other attached to the Centre for Political Studies and checks to ensure compliance; 3) platforms. Economic Diplomacy, IDFR. determine the guidelines for reporting rules that could be submitted towards Endnotes the UNFCCC for transparency and 1 Scott, M. (2019). Cities Are on the Front Line of further scrutiny; and 4) delegate duties Tackling Climate Change and They Need to Do More. Forbes. Retrieved on 5 June 2019 from of policing and prosecutions of entities https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikescott/2019/ that fail to comply with the adopted 06/05/cities-are-on-the-front-line-of-tackling- climate-change-and-they-need-to-do conventions. While the scope of more/#724fbe7a38fb this proposed taskforce may be too 2 Ball, J. (2018). With Climate Change No Longer ambitious in view of country-specific in the Future, Adaptation Speeds Up. The New York Times. Retrieved on 3 June 2019 from constraints, this approach is arguably https://www.nytimes.com/2018/09/21/climate/ important as a strategy without an climate-change-adaptation.html efficient implementation would only 3 World Bank Group. (2011). Guide to Climate remain an illusion. Change Adaptation in Cities. Washington DC: World Bank. 4 ASEAN Secretariat News. (2018). ASEAN hold Conclusion first Climate Change Partnership Conference. Retrieved on 20 June 2019 from https://asean. org/asean-hold-first-climate-change-partnership- Effective climate policy in Malaysia conference/ will require a two-fold strategy: a 5 European Commission. (2018). 2050 long-term comprehensive domestic climate strategy. Retrieved on 20 June 2019 from https:// mitigation and adoption and regional ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/strategies/2050_en cooperation. In the light of the adverse 6 European Commission. (2018). Our Vision

The Indo-Pacific: A Region by Any Other Name will Smell Just as Sweet? ... 1

Rizal Abdul Kadir

Especially in the world of diplomacy, something expressed verbally means in three different ways to bring three words shape conversations, can entirely something else - or arguably different meanings to the term ‘mine’. trigger unintended consequences, and, clearer - when reduced to writing. Take The problem does not end there. words may therefore define outcomes. the following example: Inaccurate diction, pronunciation, and Conversations get muddled when even ordinary syntax can wreak equal the same terms are used to mean The mine is mine. That I mine havoc: The mind does not mind whether different things. Conversations get information for a living has nothing to the mine is mine. Matters can get pretty muddied when concepts lack clarity. do with the fact that the mine is mine. serious where – and it is not unusual Conversations can get amusing when The word ‘mine’ here has been used – for there to be a misunderstanding

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between, for example, the words contemporary world order; as it aims factions or seeking small cliques.’13 ‘sovereignty’ and ‘sovereign rights’. to ensure that the ‘… rule of law – not Context is therefore King. This article is coercion or force – [will] dictat[e] the future France, as early as 2018, declared not on English; and the content to follow of the Indo-Pacific’.5 This is especially in Sydney that France saw itself an is certainly not problem free. Instead important considering the United States inclusive and stabilising mediating the reader is invited to see this as an describes the Indo-Pacific as its priority power for the Indo-Pacific region;14 attempt to highlight that in diplomacy, theatre;6 and for which Australia on its and interestingly considers the Indo- conversations, including those reduced part considers the United States has a Pacific in terms of space … covering to writing, through the employment and significant role in the Indo-Pacific as a ‘maritime and land geographical area, deployment of words mean everything. stabilising influence.7 The United States [comprising] the Indian, Pacific, and And cultural variances are not to blame. Indo-Pacific Strategy Report defines Southern oceans and forms a security the Indo-Pacific as that area of the continuum spreading from the East Employ the term ‘Indo-Pacific’ to the globe from ‘…the west coast of the African coastline to the Western entire paragraph above; perhaps then United States to the western shores American seaboard’;15 a perspective the practical problem becomes clear. of India’.8 India, on the other hand, that has been met with either cautious Or hopefully clearer. And given this through its Minister of External Affairs, optimism,16 or outright scepticism .17 context, some questions that come to describes its own strategy on Indo- mind include ‘what is the Indo-Pacific’? Pacific not so much on geographical A Solution to the Indo-Pacific ‘Where is the Indo-Pacific’? ‘What are reach but more so as one based on Impasse: The ASEAN Way? the principles underpinning the term multipolarity, not containing any power, and idea of Indo-Pacific’? ‘Who are the and not aligning with any power against ASEAN, in spite of its critics, has actors in the Indo-Pacific’? In the world another; effectively, underscoring an proven over time that it is a regional of diplomacy, words seek to eschew inclusive outlook on the Indo-Pacific.9 grouping that has successfully shaped divisiveness. It is therefore hardly This circumspect approach towards and navigated relations with major surprising that even developed countries defining the Indo-Pacific may be powers. The multilateral platforms of are at odds on whether the term ‘Indo- understandable considering the same the ARF, EAS, ADMM Plus are some Pacific’ is, as expressed by an observer, Minister also remarked elsewhere that examples of its diplomatic muscle. ‘…an objective statement of geography ‘… the international situation today is In conversations on Indo-Pacific, the or a loaded political term used to signal under stress’.10 For Japan, its ‘Free ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific is a support for one power over another’.2 and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy’significant contribution to the discourse The Indo-Pacific as a new geo-political emphasises rule of law, pursuit of on Indo-Pacific;18 but leaves much to theatre was indeed the theme of the economic prosperity, and commitment be desired in as much as it holds sound conference organised by the Maritime for peace and stability; and states that promise. To be fair to ASEAN however, Institute of Malaysia last October 2019.3 ‘Japan will cooperate with any country the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, This article will highlight various – not all that supports this idea’.11 One such released in June 2019, may perhaps be – views expressed in the public domain country may be Australia – a country described as an instrumental work-in- on the Indo-Pacific. The discussion to ready to pursue active diplomacy and progress which sets out the framework follow will, however, focus on how the use their development cooperation to for how interests in the Indo-Pacific – notion of ‘Indo-Pacific’ has evolved promote economic reform and social of any country interested in the Indo- within ASEAN; and what implications stability; to advance their own interests Pacific – may best be pursued. Indeed, the notion of ‘Indo-Pacific’ may have in what Australia sees as a changing the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific for the foreign policy of Malaysia. Indo-Pacific.12 talks about ‘…generating momentum for building strategic trust and win-win Perspectives on the Indo-Pacific: Clearly therefore, with such noble ideals cooperation in the region’ – signalling The Problem… concerning the Indo-Pacific surely the all-important need for inclusivity; peace and stability will prevail; or will it but a problem with the outlook is the Observers remind us that the idea of not? realisation on the need for an appropriate ‘Indo-Pacific’ is neither new nor novel; ASEAN document to capture the surfaced as a regional concept, linking China on its part has taken a more ASEAN consensus on the Indo-Pacific; the Indian and Pacific Oceans; but cautious, if not also candid, approach. understandably however because that the term ‘Indo-Pacific’ has taken Foreign Minister Wang Yi has expressed ASEAN considers the Indo-Pacific is on a new life under the U.S Trump that there must be ‘… a focus on still an evolving regional architecture.19 administration’s adoption of it.4 On cooperation and consensus, without In other words, more work is needed the face of it, the Indo-Pacific Strategy engaging in geographic confrontation to understand, address, and reconcile Report released by the United States and games; [and a] focus on openness perspectives on the Indo-Pacific to on 1 June 2019 should appeal to and inclusiveness, without forming enable ASEAN to have its traditional

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consensus on the matter. Nevertheless the context of the ASEAN Outlook on 2See Tyler, M.C, The Indo-Pacific is the New Asia, www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/indo- to the credit of ASEAN, the very fact that the Indo-Pacific? Generally however, pacific-new-asia a regional grouping, of ten countries, has Malaysia can be expected to be vocal 3Held last 24 October 2019 at the DoubleTree managed to release a unified – starting – in advocating specific issues of interest; Hilton, Kuala Lumpur. position on the Indo-Pacific is no mean including taking a leadership role in 4Amitav Acharya, ‘Why ASEAN’s Indo-Pacific feat; hitherto strategies and conceptions advocating issues of interest.30 In the outlook matters’, East Asia Forum of the Indo-Pacific have thus far been context of matters concerning the Indo- 5See United States, Department of Defense, advocated by individual states. Thus, Pacific, it is noteworthy that Malaysia Indo-Pacific Strategy Report, p54 comments that ASEAN is ambivalent continues to recognise both ASEAN as 6See Message from Secretary of Defense, United on its outlook towards a Free and the cornerstone of the foreign policy of States, Department of Defense, Indo-Pacific Strategy Report. Open Indo-Pacific,20 as championed Malaysia, and the central role of ASEAN by Japan, are misplaced and fails to as a regional body to promote peace 7See Australian Government, 2017 Foreign Policy White Paper, Chp.2 Power Shifts in the Indo- appreciate, to borrow the words of the and security in the region.31 At the same Pacific et seq Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore, time, it cannot be denied that Malaysia 8See United States, Department of Defense, that ASEAN is ‘…no stranger to big is a maritime nation with critical access Indo-Pacific Strategy Report, p1 21 power dynamics and proxy wars’; so to three strategic waterways: the Straits 9See eg reports in https://economictimes. much so ASEAN made it clear that its of , the South China Sea, and indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/ delhis-indo-pacific-strategy-is-not-aimed-at- recipe for stability and prosperity in the the Sulu and Sulawesi Seas. In this containment-of-any-power-foreign-minister/ Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions, context, it is especially noteworthy that articleshow/70886881.cms?from=mdr; ASEAN’s geographical conception of ASEAN identifies the maritime domain 10Excerpt of speech at the Inaugural Session of the Indo-Pacific, ‘…requires avoiding the as an important element in its outlook India-Singapore: The Next Phase of Strategic Partnership reported in https://economictimes. deepening of mistrust, miscalculation, on the Indo-Pacific;32 and elaborated at indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/ india-looks-at-open-balanced-indo-pacific- and patterns of behaviour based on a length the envisaged nature and scope region-s-jaishankar/articleshow/71048400. zero-sum game.’22 Yes, the ASEAN of maritime cooperation.33 All this in turn cms?from=mdr Outlook on the Indo-Pacific underscores warrants – as a first step – ascertaining 11See https://www.asean.emb-japan.go.jp/ ASEAN Centrality;23 Yes, ASEAN sees the extent to which matters concerning files/000352880.pdf, slide no.2 it has a central and strategic role for its the Indo-Pacific impact the national 12See Australian Government, 2017 Foreign Policy outlook on the Indo-Pacific;24 because interests of Malaysia. Towards that end, White Paper, Chp.3 A stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific et seq it is hard not to recognise such a need, Wisma Putra’s Consultative Council 13 for roughly one-third of global shipping on Foreign Policy would be a suitable See Wang Yi Talks about Indo-Pacific Concept at www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/zxxx_662805/ alone passes through the South China platform to proactively obtain the t1685652.shtml et seq 25 Sea. This fact alone underscores the relevant inputs and insights impacting 14See https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/country- ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific the national interests of Malaysia from files/asia-and-oceania/the-indo-pacific-region-a- priority-for-france/ et seq that the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean civil society, stakeholders, and experts regions are not ‘…contiguous territorial alike;34 for which the Maritime Institute 15See France and Security in the Indo-Pacific, May 2019, available via https://www.defense.gouv.fr/ spaces but [rather] a closely integrated of Malaysia being the entity set up english/dgris/international-action/regional-issues/ and interconnected region’.26 by the government to provide policy france-unveils-its-defence-policy-in-the-indo- pacific inputs on maritime affairs remains 16See eg Ankit Panda, ‘France as an Indo-Pacific And thus what can … should available to play its role. It would be an Power: Making the Case’, available via https:// Malaysia do? … honour and privilege for the Maritime thediplomat.com/2019/06/frances-as-an- indo-pacific-power-making-the-case/; Harsh V. Institute of Malaysia to collaborate Pant, Vinay Kaura, ‘France Is Looking for New In June 2019, around the same time with the Institute of Diplomacy and Allies in Asia’, available via https://foreignpolicy. com/2019/07/18/france-is-looking-for-new- frame when the ASEAN Outlook on Foreign Relations Malaysia in an effort allies-in-asia/ the Indo-Pacific was released, the to provide a structured and rigorous 17See esp Qi Siang Ng, ‘The limits to French released a perspective to the Consultative Council grandeur in the Indo-Pacific’, available via https:// document entitled ‘the Foreign Policy on Foreign Policy on the extent to which www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/limits- french-ambition-indo-pacific Framework of the New Malaysia – the interests of Malaysia are affected 18 27 See ASEAN Outlook On The Indo-Pacific at Change in Continuity’. It is significant by the contemporary conversations www.asean.org/asean-outlook-indo-pacific/ to highlight that the broad foreign policy on the Indo-Pacific, and propose 19See ASEAN Outlook On The Indo-Pacific at goals and fundamental principles in the subsequent steps thereof; because … www.asean.org/asean-outlook-indo-pacific/ foreign policy of Malaysia will remain on conversations concerning the ‘Indo- , para.12; see also Chairman’s Statement of the 34th ASEAN Summit at https://asean.org/ unchanged.28 Pacific’, what it means and what it chairmans-statement-34th-asean-summit/, entails are both still open to question… para.56 But Malaysia has signalled that there Endnotes 20See Tomotaka Shoji, ASEAN’s Ambivalence will be changes in terms of approaches, toward the Vision of a “Free and Open Indo- 1 29 Dr Rizal Abdul Kadir, Acting Director-General, Pacific” – Mixture of Anxiety and Expectation at direction, and emphases. What then Maritime Institute of Malaysia (links cited www.spf.org/iina/en/articles/shoji-southeastasia- may be expected from Malaysia, in accessible as of 11 Oct. 2019) foips.html

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21In relation to a parliamentary question concerning 26See ASEAN Outlook On The Indo-Pacific at 32See ASEAN Outlook On The Indo-Pacific at the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific - see www.asean.org/asean-outlook-indo-pacific/ ,www.asean.org/asean-outlook-indo-pacific/, www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements- para.6 para.6 et seq Transcripts-and-Photos/2019/08/05-Aug_Min- Written-PQ-Reply 27See Foreign Policy Framework of the New 33See ASEAN Outlook On The Indo-Pacific at Malaysia – Change in Continuity available on www.asean.org/asean-outlook-indo-pacific/, 22See ASEAN Outlook On The Indo-Pacific at the website of the Prime Minister’s Office, paras.14 & 15 www.asean.org/asean-outlook-indo-pacific/ ,https://www.pmo.gov.my/wp-content/ para.1 uploads/2019/09/Foreign-Policy-Framework-for- 34See In accordance with the role and function of New-Malaysia-min.pdf the Council – see See Foreign Policy Framework 23See ASEAN Outlook On The Indo-Pacific at of the New Malaysia – Change in Continuity, p.17 www.asean.org/asean-outlook-indo-pacific/ ,28 Ibid, p.16 et seq et seq para.5 29Ibid et seq 24See ASEAN Outlook On The Indo-Pacific at ------www.asean.org/asean-outlook-indo-pacific/ ,30 See Foreign Policy Framework of the New para.6 Malaysia – Change in Continuity, p.III et seq Dr Rizal Abdul Kadir is currently the Acting

25 31 Director-General of the Maritime Institute of See eg United States, Department of Defense, See Foreign Policy Framework of the New Malaysia. Indo-Pacific Strategy Report, p1 Malaysia – Change in Continuity, p.19 et seq

The Convergence of Foreign and Defence Policy Azmi Hassan

It is interesting to note that Wisma Change in Continuity became embroiled in the dispute too. Putra recently came out with a foreign Therefore, policies developed by Ministry policy document entitled Foreign Policy With ‘Change in Continuity’ as the of Defence and Ministry of Economic Framework of the New Malaysia with theme of the framework, the document Affairs, for example, that involved parties the central theme titled ‘Change in does not offer any drastic change in related to the South China Sea dispute Continuity’. The document can be Malaysia’s foreign policy but there is a may complicate matters if the policies considered as Malaysia’s new foreign stark difference in how the government are not coordinated or in tandem with policy direction, which in essence is the will approach certain related issues. In Wisma Putra’s foreign policy strategies. crux of Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir strategic management parlance, the Mohamad’s speech at the 73rd United foreign policy vision and objectives Defence White Paper Nation General Assembly (UNGA) remain intact but the strategies on how held last year. The framework outlines to achieve both of the intents will differ On this note, it is interesting to highlight the principles and priorities of foreign compared to what was practised for the that the Ministry of Defence is in the midst affairs matter that will not only guide the last six decades. This is where the term of finalising the Defence White Paper government, but also indirectly will act ‘change’ comes into place. which will be debated in Parliament when as a bridge of justifications between the it is ready. By its basic definition alone, government and the general population Rightly so that foreign policy strategies it is supposed to be comprehensive and when the government implement foreign need to change and be adapted to the is responsible for the long-term plan of policy decisions. current geopolitical situations because Malaysia’s defence posture. Since the geopolitical issues are very dynamic South China Sea dispute contributes a The change in foreign policy direction is in nature. Foreign policy is not the major factor towards Malaysia’s defence very much expected when responsibility of Wisma Putra alone since posture, undoubtedly this issue will be voted in droves during it is very much related to other sectors dealt with in detail in the white paper. Malaysia’s 14th General Election (GE14). as well such as education, technology, Basic queries that need to be discussed With Tun Dr Mahathir at the helm of economy, and social amongst others. in the white paper include Malaysia’s the government, he had demonstrated Therefore, coordination among position on various claimants made on that during his last tenure as the fourth ministries and agencies is critical and our Economic Exclusive Zone (EEZ), prime minister, foreign affairs matters this is where the framework will come in particular the Chinese claims which were very close to his heart. His passion handy. constitute the largest swath of our EEZ on South-South cooperation and his compared to other claimants such as forthright views on matters related to Just take the example of the South Vietnam or Brunei. super powers’ behaviour are case in China Sea maritime boundary dispute point. There was never a doubt that that involved Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam, The foreign policy framework did Tun Dr Mahathir has lost his touch as Philippines, and China. Matters become discuss the South China Sea dispute demonstrated in his recent speech at complicated when other nations such in detail and emphasised that Malaysia the just concluded 74th UNGA. as the United States, Australia, and India will continue to cooperate closely with

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other ASEAN member states and directions for foreign affairs strategy. decades ago. major powers in ensuring that security Therefore, there are schools of thought and stability can be maintained. The that believed there are no differences But with today’s globalised world, this framework also stressed on the dialogue between defence policy and foreign kind of restricted view is not applicable mechanism in searching for solutions policy. They are the same and should be anymore and a broader perspective of and gave the example of the current synonymous with each other. foreign and defence policy needs to be negotiation of the South China Sea adopted by our citizens. As stated in the Code of Conduct (CoC). As stated in the It can also be said that the governance foreign policy framework, our foreign framework, Malaysia is looking forward of any government is coloured and policy is not a single and overarching for an early conclusion of CoC under influenced by two related policies, that foreign policy since it consists of multi- the ASEAN negotiation framework and is, foreign and defence. Observing dimensional aspects. Rest assured that Wisma Putra has accorded this issue as how super powers react to geopolitical the upcoming publication of the white a priority in our foreign policy agenda. It situations, foreign and defence policies paper will portray that defence policies can be said that from the foreign policy tend to merge with each other and are not limited to strategic plans for the framework document that Malaysia’s as always it becomes too difficult to defence of the country per se. foreign policy hinges heavily on ASEAN differentiate between the two. Take for style of framework. example the governance of European It is a good thing that both the foreign Union (EU) and the North Atlantic policy framework and the Defence White Since the Defence White Paper is in Treaty Organization (NATO) that always Paper were formulated about the same its final stages of preparation or most interact with each other where the time and both of these documents if probably has already been completed former primarily deals with foreign affairs read in tandem will demonstrate that and is in queue to be debated in while the latter supposedly deals with our foreign and defence policies are Parliament, the pertinent question is that only defence matters. It is true that as complex as the world they operate whether the foreign policy framework is both organisations comprise of different in, and they involve many more actors crafted with the white paper in mind. members but decisions taken by both other than those in Prime Minister’s As stated by Wisma Putra, the foreign organisations are always in tandem with Office, Wisma Putra or KEMENTAH. policy is intended to act as a guidance each other. ------not only for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but also other ministry since It is interesting to observe if the Defence Azmi Hassan is currently GeoStrategist at Institute foreign affairs cannot be implemented White Paper that will be out very soon of GeoSpatial (INSTeG) and Perdana School, in vacuum without referring to other is in tandem with the foreign policy Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) related sectors. framework that was just released or some would argue the other way The Convergence round, the foreign policy framework is in agreement with the Defence White But again there are quarters who Paper. subscribed to the notion that foreign policy should act as the supplier and Conclusion defence policy as the consumer. It means that whenever a defence policy Sometimes Malaysians tend to needs to be crafted, it must refer see foreign and defence policy in a to the foreign policy. But there are relatively narrow angle. To some of us, other schools of thought which think foreign policy is all about the working otherwise, that is, foreign policy should relationship between the Prime Minister refer to the defence policy. and Wisma Putra with foreign nations. Therefore, foreign policy from this angle In other words as the norm in is all about when the Prime Minister international relation parlance, local meets with other foreign leaders or politics can influence the government when the minister of foreign affairs trying decision in pursuing its foreign affairs to resolve a dispute with Singapore agenda and in this case defence and for example. This kind of view is very security issues in fact can provide simplistic in nature and may be true few

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the Forum section are entirely the authors’ own and not those of the Institute.

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The Launch of the Foreign Policy Framework of the New Malaysia

On 18 September 2019, the launching ceremony of Malaysia’s foreign policy framework took place at the administrative capital of Putrajaya under the banner “Foreign Policy Framework of the New Malaysia: Change in Continuity”. The event was officiated by the seventh Prime Minister, Tun Dr . Also present at the launch were Minister of Foreign Affairs Dato’ ; Minister of Economic Affairs Dato’ Seri Azmin Ali; Minister of Water, Land and Natural Resources Xavier Jayakumar; Minister of Primary Industries ; Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Dato’ Marzuki Yahya; Attorney-General Tan Sri Tommy Thomas, and Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador.

As Tun Dr Mahathir himself noted in various international fora where Malaysia content of the FPF itself as a document is his own remarks at the launch, the is already a member. For international largely along the lines of what had been Foreign Policy Framework (FPF) of the fora that Malaysia is not a member, the suggested earlier. After an introduction New Malaysia is at once a milestone for country will aim to influence the decision- and a brief look at the thinking and goals Malaysia’s foreign policy, a guidepost for making processes. He also said that of the PH administration, the framework the advancement of policy priorities, and Malaysia would continue to pursue an is divided into four sections that reflect a living document for those interested independent, principled, and pragmatic its key priorities: the overall direction in Malaysia’s evolving approach to the foreign policy, “founded on the values of of foreign policy; empowering the world. It will serve as a guide for the peace, humanity, justice, and equality”. foreign ministry; enhancing interagency country in conducting its foreign policy The country, he said, would continue collaboration; and increasing public and in a rapidly changing and challenging to maintain friendly relations with all civil society participation. The document world. He said that the basic elements countries and seek peaceful resolution delves into these priorities from a variety of the foreign policy remain unchanged of disputes based on international law of perspectives, from more general ones and the difference now is the way and norms. such as South-South cooperation and Malaysia will approach certain issues reforming regional and international affecting its interests under the three Describing the framework as a living organisations, to more specific ones approaches outlined by the framework. document, the prime minister said he such as the Israel-Palestine issue and is confident the 80-page framework the South China Sea. In addition to the In the FPF, Tun Dr Mahathir outlined will also become a valuable source launching ceremony itself, the FPF was three approaches that Malaysia’s foreign of reference not just for Malaysian also made publicly available and can policy would take, which included diplomats but all parties interested in be accessed at the Ministry of Foreign “participating actively” in discussions at Malaysia’s foreign policy. In general, the Affairs’ website.

Ambassador Lecture Series 1/2019

Malaysia was the first country in the fields including in diplomacy, economy, This year marks the 45th anniversary region to establish diplomatic ties with trade, agriculture, defence, and security. of Malaysia-China relations. To China when the second Prime Minister, Malaysia was also among the first commemorate this, IDFR recently Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, visited the countries to support and participate organised a lecture titled “45th Republic in 1974. Since then, China- in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Malaysia friendly relations grew in various between Malaysia and China: Reflecting

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on the Past for a Prosperous Future” on 19 September 2019 at Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. The lecture was the first of the Institute’s Ambassador Lecture Series held for 2019.

IDFR was honoured to have His Excellency Bai Tian, China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, to inaugurate the lecture series. He began his speech by recalling back the historical ties of the two nations. He then divided the main theme into four subtopics: China’s development; China’s foreign policy towards neighbouring As for the BRI, H.E. Bai Tian described it should become partners in the following countries; the Belt and Road Initiative as a platform for all-round cooperation, matters: the implementation of BRI, (BRI); and China-Malaysia’s relations. with the aims of promoting a balanced, cultural and civilisational exchanges, sustainable world economy as well as peaceful settlement of disputes and With respect to China’s development, common prosperity for all. In order to maintaining regional stability, as well H.E. Bai Tian said that it is now the achieve that, China is enhancing five as promotion of Asian values and largest trading partner for more than connectivity areas: policy, infrastructure, upholding the international system. He 130 countries and a driving force for trade, finance, and people-to-people. then expressed his heartfelt respect world economic growth, contributing In terms of China-Malaysia relations, and gratitude to everyone who has more than 30 percent to the global he noted that Beijing-Kuala Lumpur committed to China-Malaysia friendship growth annually for more than 10 relations have been growing in strength over the past 45 years. In attendance years, with a GDP of USD 13.6 trillion for the past 45 years, featuring equality, were members of the diplomatic corps, in 2018. He also explained that Chinese mutual respect, and harmonious officials from the Ministry of Foreign economy will keep a steady, sound, coexistence and have brought more Affairs, Ministry of International Trade and sustainable growth, playing its part tangible benefits to the people of the two and Industry, Malaysian Investment as an engine for the world economy, countries. Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad Development Authority, and local and the country will stick to the path of has visited China nine times during academia. peaceful development and the opening- his two terms as the Prime Minister of up policy. With regard to China’s foreign Malaysia. He said that Tun Dr Mahathir’s policy towards neighbouring countries, two visits to China in less than 10 months he pointed out that it was based on four and his recent attendance at the Second keywords: friendship, good faith, mutual Belt and Road Forum for International benefit, and inclusiveness. Guided Cooperation in Beijing attest to the by these keywords, the mutual trust importance of China-Malaysia relations. between China and its neighbouring countries has strengthened and H.E. Bai Tian concluded the lecture deepened the convergence of interest. by proposing that China and Malaysia

Workshop on Public Diplomacy and Media Skills 2019

The globalisation of international relations the non-government organisations at better understanding of Malaysia’s and the rapid development of information large, in addition to the application of foreign policy, and trade and and communication technology have social and electronic media platforms. economic policies, both regionally and greatly influenced trends of interactions internationally. in a modern-day diplomacy. While As the main goal of interaction is to diplomacy in the past focused mainly on influence the public thinking at the In line with this, IDFR successfully the interstate interactions at the bilateral international level and promote one’s organised Workshop on Public and multilateral levels, diplomacy national interest, effective public Diplomacy and Media Skills 2019 from today involves engagement with the diplomacy activities and media skills help 27 to 29 August 2019 at Vistana Kuala media, the public, the civil society and to promote and contribute towards a Lumpur Titiwangsa. The workshop

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received encouraging turnout and twenty five officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation, , Malaysian Rubber Export Promotion Council, Ministry of Water, Land and Natural Resources, Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Malaysian Palm Oil Board, and IDFR attended it.

The aim of the workshop was to raise awareness among government officials about the role of public invited to brief on Malaysia’s Public anchor in Malaysian broadcasting diplomacy in promoting and defending Diplomacy Overview. Dr. Mohd Khairie industry, as well as demonstrated national interests. In addition, this Ahmad from Universiti Utara Malaysia, practicality and instilled self-confidence workshop also served as an exposure, as a second speaker, deliberated on and presentation skill among the preparation, and information sharing Social Media and Its Importance, while participants in facing and handling to middle-level officials (GradesMr. Mohd Razman Faizal Sulaiman tough and pressured questions. 44-52) in handling questions and from Digital Market Lab elaborated on answers during press conferences Social Media Tools and Techniques. Indeed, this workshop is vital for and interview sessions through mid-career and senior officials of any media simulations and live interviews. Datin Yusanani Yushak, a well-known ministries and government agencies professional media consultant from whose nature of work involves handling The simulation exercises were Malaysia Press Institute covered the of media and public diplomacy. All conducted by three different speakers, two-day course on Handling Press participants benefitted from the commencing with Mr. Azri Mat Yaacob, Conference and Studio Interviews: knowledge and the experiences shared Undersecretary of Public Diplomacy Theory and Practice. She shared her by the speakers in managing media and Communication Division, Ministry previous experiences and moments communication with the public, locally of Foreign Affairs Malaysia who was while working as a journalist and news and globally.

Diploma in Diplomacy: Attachment Programme

Manila, The Philippines 27 July 2019, an assortment of images Mr. Robert Borje, Chief of Presidential greeted; from a collection of islands, the Protocol and Foreign Affairs Advisor at From 27 July to 3 August 2019, seven density of urban population with its fair Malacañang Palace. The session with Diploma in Diplomacy (DiD) participants share of slums and gated communities, Mr. Borje, who is also a diplomat, was accompanied by Mr. Hamizan Hashim, the green lungs of the city, and the an inspiring learning experience for Head of Competency Enhancement infamous Manila traffic jam. Throughout the participants who aspire to serve Centre, IDFR and Miss Fazlina Basiron the international attachment, we stayed their country in the foreign service. were in Manila, the Philippines for a at Berjaya Makati Hotel, a Malaysian- Aside from engagements with the local study visit. The eight-day programme owned establishment that was also government agencies, we also visited is part of the DiD module. Overall, the first deluxe hotel in the Philippines Malaysian agencies in Manila such as the programmes designed for Manila announced as halal certified since 2016. Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia External covered the political, cultural, and Trade Development Corporation. economic aspects of the Philippines. The group was fortunate to have met with In Manila, we witnessed the cruciality The weather in Manila was uncooperative of understanding the local cultures of from the start, since we arrived during the the host country and establishing good rainy season in the Philippines. However, rapport with others. Both elements the wet weather did not damper the are after all the crux of diplomacy, educational visit since it was the first where interactions are facilitated by time all DiD participants visited the personal relations. We observed the Philippines. Upon flying down towards importance of understanding the local Ninoy Aquino International Airport on sentiments, particularly in charting

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Malaysia’s next course of action in its ground in halal market similar to its issues concerning the Philippines. internationally recognised expertise in Islamic finance. In addition, as both There are several opportunities which countries have some similarities and on- Malaysia should invest upon in the going historical and present issues that Philippines. We are of the view that have yet to be tackled, it is imperative for Malaysia could tap into the growing halal Malaysia to continue maintaining a good market in the Philippines by providing bilateral relations with the Philippines. advisory and consultancy services engagements. The time spent there similar to our on-going cooperation with In conclusion, the attachment with the team from Malawakil Manila Japan. Malaysia should also leverage programme was a great learning was indeed an unforgettable memory. its current standing in the global halal experience and it should be continued market and fully utilise first-mover for future DiD participants. We were advantage in the halal sector, despite able to learn new things not only its close competitor, Indonesia coming from the briefings but also from in behind. Malaysia could also establish the interaction beyond the official

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New Delhi, India

The one-week attachment programme in New Delhi is a good example of an the discussion, there were similarities New Delhi, India was one of the modules organisation, which does not operate and differences between FSI and IDFR, in the 6-month DiD programme, aiming in silos, whereby every agency is aware whereby IDFR could emulate the steps to provide exposure for the participants of the works of other agencies. We that FSI has taken in capitalising the to the day-to-day operations and learnt the importance of working closely Institute in order to project Malaysia’s prospective job scopes at Mission. This and maintaining a good interpersonal positive image through Malaysia’s attachment programme included visits relationship amongst colleagues to foreign policies on various issues. to the High Commission of Malaysia, ensure the harmony of working under Malaysian Agencies, Foreign Service the same roof. We also had a sharing The engagement with International Institute of India (FSI), Malaysia’s One session with Mr. Muhammad Azfar Labour Office provided an exposure Stop Centre(OSC), and International Abdullah, First Secretary, on how junior for the participants to engage with an Labour Organisation(ILO) Decent Work diplomats could create and maintain international organisation in discussing Team for South Asia (DWT) and Country a network with their counterparts thematic multilateral issues such as Office for India. from the host country. It provided us international labour guidelines. The with foresight on what to expect as engagement enabled us to see things The participants had a briefing session a Malaysian diplomat when we serve from many perspectives, and not just at the High Commission on the abroad. focus on Malaysia national interests operations of a Mission as well as the alone, but to achieve results that bilateral and multilateral issues that High would benefit the whole international Commission officials need to deal with community. Engaging at the multilateral on a regular basis. We also obtained fora taught us that we may get the upper valuable information on the economic, hand in scouting for other country’s tourism, agriculture, and security positions. From then on, we would be aspects of Malaysia-India relations able to formulate Malaysia’s position from the Ministry of Defence, Ministry and influence the outcome of certain of International Trade and Industry, issues, which may serve beneficial for Immigration Department, Prime Malaysia and the other country. Minister’s Department and Tourism Malaysia. As Wisma Putra officials, it is During the study visit to the Foreign As India is a beautiful country and well- necessary for us to master the political Service Institute of India, we were able known for its unique cultures, historical spectrum of the host country and know to have a discussion on real issues heritages, traditions and monuments, it the operations of other national agencies which India is currently tapping into, was a great opportunity for us to visit operating under the same umbrella. namely regionalism diplomacy in its Taj Mahal, Old Delhi city and Jama’ foreign policies as well as diplomacy Mosque, local markets such as Sarojini The High Commission of Malaysia in between India and Malaysia. Based on Nagar, Janpath, and India Gate historical

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monument. They were the living proofs is like to become well-versed diplomats. for us to immerse ourselves in the Indian culture, and at the same time provided The attachment programme has us the chance to understand the succeeded in enriching the DiD significance of domestic social settings. participants in attaining a deeper understanding of India, and providing We had an enjoyable and fruitful a better overview of Malaysia- experience throughout the week. Not India relations and a clearer only we had the opportunity to gain introduction to issues affecting insights on the duties and responsibilities Malaysia’s national interests abroad. at the mission, but we also had the chance to experience the unique culture of India first-hand, which include engagements with the locals, visits to the historical places, and food tasting. The mission attachment programme was definitely a golden opportunity which had furnished us with an idea of what it

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Jakarta, Indonesia

Six Diploma in Diplomacy (DiD) of relevant Indonesian government all DiD participants involved. It was participants had the opportunity to bodies and agencies such as House highly impactful on us personally and attend an attachment programme at of Representatives of the Republic of professionally. It had successfully taught the Embassy of Malaysia in Jakarta, Indonesia (DPR), Centre for Education us the reality of running a mission abroad, Republic of Indonesia from 27 July to 3 and Training (PUSDIKLAT), Ministry of and addressing both administrative August 2019. The eight-day programme Foreign Affairs of Indonesia (KEMLU), and substantive matters at the same aimed to train Malaysian junior Ministry for National Development time. It was also helpful in preparing diplomats in the fields of diplomacy Planning (BAPPENAS), ASEAN ourselves before we go for our posting and international relations. It was also Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian soon. This attachment programme designed to equip the participants with Assistance on Disaster Management should be continued as it is a real life the knowledge and skills necessary for (AHA Centre), National Agency for experience which is very valuable for their diplomatic career. Disaster Management of the Republic of the young diplomats in developing Indonesia (BNPB), ASEAN Secretariat their future career in foreign service. (ASEC), and many more. We also had the opportunity to discuss various issues, especially issues of mutual concern and interact with counterparts from these agencies pertinent to their diplomatic roles. Indonesia was such a strategic country to visit for an overseas attachment programme in Diploma in Diplomacy. There were also a large During the programme, we not only number of officers in Malawakil Jakarta. managed to learn more about the Hence, it was a good opportunity for Republic of Indonesia in the context of us to expand our contacts for future politics, economy, social, and culture, but reference. Apart from the substantive we also managed to experience the ups schedule, we also visited the National and lows of life as Malaysian diplomats Monument, Jakarta and Gedung abroad. This attachment programme Pancasila. allowed us to obtain an overview of Malaysia-Indonesia relations, political, In conclusion, the attachment and economic situation in the country programme at the Embassy of Malaysia and the region, as well as functions in Jakarta was truly enriching for

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SPKM Pre-Posting Orientation Course for Home-Based Staff and Spouses 3/2019

Competent, efficient and professional home-based staff posted abroad should be fully equipped with knowledge and skills shared by experienced instructors as a preparation in dealing with multifaceted demands and requests by the domestic and foreign stakeholders. Besides serving our national interests abroad, they also carry our flag and prestige, to be respected and highly appraised by the foreign community. As representatives of their agencies, all officers should work as a team and Auditing, Finance, Ethics and Integrity, agency for Malaysian products, goods play their role as one, being resourceful, Enhancing National Security, Sharing and services to be externally traded to groomed and presentable, and at the of Experience from a Former Diplomat foreign consumers and searching for same time protect and take care of as well as General Administrative and new markets in other parts of the world. the national images and reputations. Asset Management at Mission. Special exposure to promoting Malaysia as a Apart from MATRADE that allowed In this regard, IDFR successfully hosted preferred trading, investment and tourist their premise to be used as a venue the third series of SPKM Pre-Posting destination was also conducted in a for the course, Tourism Malaysia also Orientation Course for Home-Based panel discussion with representatives reflects their commitment by taking this Staff and Spouses 3/2019 from 8 to 17 from the Malaysia External Trade opportunity to gather all participants July 2019. The course was attended by Development Corporation, Malaysia and their families for a durian treat held seventy eight participants, comprised of Investment Development Authority and at a fruit orchard located in Semenyih, government officers and their spouses Tourism Malaysia. Selangor. The activity was specially from various ministries and government hosted by the agency to further promote agencies of the Prime Minister’s The participants were also fortunate to durian as one of the local delicacies and Department, Malaysian Armed Forces, have an interactive session with Dato’ attract more tourist to come in and enjoy Royal Malaysian Police, Ministry of Zulkifly Yaacob, Former Malaysian the “king of fruits”. One participant from International Trade and Industry, Ministry Ambassador to Argentina who shared MPOB also shared on how Malaysia of Human Resources, Malaysia External his experiences in the “Experience could put forward the promotion of Trade Development Corporation, Sharing from a Senior Diplomat”. local palm oil to be marketed globally Tourism Malaysia, Malaysian Palm Oil They were also honoured to have a despite facing a boycott especially from Board, Federal Territory Islamic Religious session with Mr. Sophian Ab Rahman, the West. Therefore, SPKM is not only Council and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Protocol Officer from Istana Negara an orientation course but it also reflects who conducted the theory and practice the enthusiasm of all participants to The course, specially designed for on “Fine Dining, Reception and Official fully benefit from the knowledge, skills, officers Grade 41 and above, aimed Entertaining” at Dorsett Hotel Kuala experiences and information sharing from to boost and develop the participants’ Lumpur, on the third day of the course. the agencies and organisations involved. diplomatic, administrative, and social etiquette skills as well as to enhance The eight-day course was held at Room Overall, the participants have been their knowledge in international Jakarta I & II, Malaysia External Trade exposed to new subject matters that diplomatic practices to be applied in their Development Corporation Building, they should observe while working at future postings. The course included Kuala Lumpur. This was the first ever the Malaysian Missions abroad, such interactive lectures, group discussions SPKM course held outside IDFR. as on counter-terrorism, counter- and practical sessions on aspects Participants of all agencies benefitted espionage, personal security, and related to working at Malaysian Missions from an hour tour to the exhibition integrity. Besides knowledge of abroad. Among the modules designed venues such as the Business and diplomatic and administrative functions, for the participants were lectures on Information Center, the Trade Museum, they also appreciated new skills Malaysia’s Foreign Policy, Cross Cultural and the Convention Halls. It was a for media engagement, fine dining Awareness, Grooming and Social fruitful exposure for the participants and the art of entertaining, as well Etiquette, Fine Dining Etiquette, Media to better understand the roles and as social grooming and etiquette. Skills, Consular Works at Mission, functions of MATRADE as a promoting

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Reflection: My Experience as a Diploma in Diplomacy Participant

fields that are equally just as important. I quote the golden opportunity to bathe baby elephants during our CSR project in Kuantan, and see orangutans up close at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre (the biggest Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sarawak) as examples. Engagement sessions such as these expose us to another important component of Malaysia’s growth and development: its flora and fauna and how to gauge more understanding and collaboration from various stakeholders and continue to add to Malaysia’s future in the holistic sense. It has been almost one month since mode of transport in the Philippines the DiD 2019 graduates shared their called the Jeepney. From the jeepneys On the socio-cultural front, visiting fifteen minutes fame with proud family all the way to political, economic museums and weaving centres, members, superiors, and colleagues. and cultural policies, it was very watching art performances, learning to Looking back, I have to admit that my different experiencing it all first-hand. dance, and indulging in hands-on arts experiences in Diploma in Diplomacy and craft activities showed to us that have definitely been amazing and I am Through various debriefings, seminars, culture and art can serve as a tool that so thankful to have been a part of it. and visits, we identified so many transcends language and geography The various excursions, projects, and similarities between the two countries. in fostering greater peace and justice discussions with members of both private Of course, we were also able to based on mutual understanding and and government sectors all contributed identify many differences as well. shared values. More specifically, it is to eye opening and thought-provoking More importantly, we were able to very apparent that culture and art can experiences. The time that I spent as identify ethnological, historical, and act as a mediator and a way to build one of the DiD participants gave me other societal factors that meant this empathy between cultures and different greater appreciation for the role of those South East Asian country would have points of view, traditions, attitude of the in the service and highlighted the need a very different growth pathway. I also world, moving beyond seeing art only in for diplomats with in-depth knowledge appreciated the opportunities given to its áesthetic value. Moreover, we learnt of the world alongside cultural sensitivity, us to learn how our Missions abroad that culture and art also serves as an a strong voice, and a focus on self- operate and function and the roles economic tool, generating income and betterment. A number of memories and that we were expected to play when revenue especially from the tourism front. elements have left a big imprint on me. abroad. These not only helped us to There should be more programmes of become more empathetic individuals this nature, to allow officers to gain more One of my fondest memories in DiD was but also professionals with a wider knowledge on arts and culture. I humbly the attachment programme in Manila, array of experiences and knowledge. believe that having the right people with Republic of the Phillippines. The cohort In short, Metro Manila and all that it a significant level of awareness regarding spent eight days and seven nights in had to offer has been an eye-opening global concerns and intercultural Manila, specifically in Makati City. This and rich learning experience. I believe competence is key when working attachment opportunity allowed us to that study visits and attachment across borders and cultures, especially engage holistically with all the theories programmes of a similar nature should in the context of Wisma Putra. Lack of we have been studying up to this date; be continued in future to enable junior cultural awareness and understanding a case study we could walk through, diplomats to have exposure to the can lead to major miscommunication/ eat, and interact with. We took in the works conducted by Missions and gain misunderstandings, and ultimately, loud and colourful sights, sounds, and more knowledge on a particular country. rejection by host-culture colleagues, smells of the city that we would call clients, acquaintances, and neighbours. home for the next eight days. Packed My DiD experience also gave me the together, tighter than a pack of sardines, chance to engage in activities not only I believe that the DiD programme my colleagues and I rode around the confined to the field of International succeeded in creating better diplomats, streets of Manila in the traditional Relations and Diplomacy, but also other who are well-rounded and have an

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understanding of a variety of situations. Every day we were exposed to different ways of thinking. With each new presenter or guest speaker we met, we came into contact with their world and their mentality. Oftentimes, it was very difficult to see the story from another perspective but we grew so much from it. In many of the sharing sessions and lecture series, we were challenged to identify some of our own pre-held prejudices about certain countries and we were encouraged to your plan, you have a team member who is changing. I would like to thank alter our perception through learning did the extra readings and preparations IDFR for giving high-class training and and listening to the stories of those who to help ease the burden for the whole education to more women so that we had experienced things on the ground. team. In regards to this, we were also can also give back to our country and reminded throughout the programme support it in matters of diplomacy. On another note about gaining the importance of being well read and leadership experiences, we were having an opinion, having a breadth Overall, DiD has been one of the most educated and groomed by the best of of skills like finance and keeping good beneficial programmes in my short the best. We took lengthy lessons on ties with both Malaysian and Foreign career stint with MFA Malaysia. I hope to how to dress properly, appear in front counterparts. All of these things I hope grow with my experiences and become of the media and hold good networks to take on board with my progression like the people who presented to and and connections with others. Sharing and I hope that they will help me become inspired us. It was not always easy but sessions with former ambassadors and a professional with a large range of with every difficulty I believe I was able senior officers taught us the importance skills. We also took time to discuss to grow as a person. I hope I am able to of being prepared; it is good to know the important role of women within the always learn and better myself along this that even if things do not go according to sector and how their representation journey, which has just begun for me.

IDFR Welcomes its New Director General

was as Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of Malaysia to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (2016- 2019). Prior to this, he was appointed as Deputy Director General for ASEAN External Relations, AMNS (2011- 2015) and ASEAN Political-Security Community, AMNS (2015-2016).

His other overseas postings were as Second Secretary in Vietnam (1996- 2000) and France (2000-2002). He was also appointed as Consul General to New York (2008-2011). At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dato’ Mohd Zamruni held various positions including Assistant Secretary in charge of Eastern On 6 August 2019, IDFR welcomes left to take up his new post as High Europe Division (1995-1996); Special its new Director General, Dato’ Mohd Commissioner to the United Kingdom. Officer to the Secretary General of the Zamruni Khalid. Dato’ Mohd Zamruni Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2002-2004); succeeded Datuk Mohamad Sadik Dato’ Mohd Zamruni has served in the and Principal Assistant Secretary in Kethergany, who, after serving the Malaysian diplomatic service for 25 charge of Multilateral Economic and Institute for more than two years, years. His ambassadorial appointment Environment Division (2006-2008).

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Institutional Visit by the Participants of the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Programme

youths from various background of studies and careers.

The Centre was responsible in organising lectures and presentations for the team with the aim of exposing them to issues involving the Malaysian Foreign Policy and its New Framework, Soft Diplomacy, and Negotiation Skills. Major (Retired) Mohd Ridzuan Mohd Shariff, Research Officer and Mr. Amirul Khairi Mustafa Bakri, Assistant Director of LNPD delivered lectures on the subjects respectively. The Centre for Leadership, Negotiation Library Block, IDFR. SSEAYP is an and Public Diplomacy was tasked to annual youth exchange programme co- deliver briefings for the participants organised by the Government of Japan of The Ship for Southeast Asian and and the Malaysian Ministry of Youth Japanese Youth Programme (SSEAYP) and Sports. The Malaysian contingent 2019 held on 9 October 2019 at was represented by sixteen selected

continued from page 1 expressed his hope that the junior of Foreign Affairs’ Award for Best Kesenian Tentera Darat. Guests were diplomats would further empower Overall Student; the Secretary General later entertained by the 2019 graduates Wisma Putra as highlighted under of Foreign Affairs’ Award for Best with a poem recitation in three different the New Malaysia’s Foreign Policy Leadership; and the Director General languages: English, Arabic, and French Framework. He also hoped that of IDFR’s Award for Best Academic and songs such as Setia and I believe the training was helpful in preparing Achievement. The recipient for the (a French song). The graduates also them for the challenges in their first Minister of Foreign Affairs’ award was Ms performed a Javanese traditional dance overseas assignment soon. At the end Syarifah Nor Amirah Syed Shamsudin; learnt when they were on their attachment of his Address, Dato’ Marzuki Yahya Secretary General’s award was Mr programme in Jakarta, Indonesia. encouraged them to keep abreast Mohd Shazmee Eddy Mohd Shah; The ceremony was also attended with the changes and developments and Director General’s award was Mr by Dato’ Sri Muhammad Shahrul in global issues to ensure Malaysia’s Muhammad Haidas Muhammad Sharif Ikram Yaakob, the Secretary General, foreign policy and conducts remain Song. Ms Syarifah Nor Amirah Syed Heads of Department and other senior relevant in securing our national interest. Shamsudin then delivered a speech in officials of the Ministry, representatives which she, on behalf of the graduates, from various ministries and agencies, The ceremony resumed with the most thanked everyone including the Ministry lecturers and speakers, IDFR’s exciting part, which was the presentation and IDFR, and most importantly, their Distinguished Fellows and staff as well of awards. Smartly dressed in their family members for their support. as the graduates’ family members. No. 1 suits, the officers went on stage to receive their Diploma in Diplomacy During the ceremony, a video montage from The Honourable Dato’ Marzuki Hj. on the activities which took place Yahya. The highlight of the event was throughout the programme was shown the presentation of awards: the Minister accompanied by musicians from Badan News Contributors

Norlela Samad, Noraini Awang Nong, Amirul Khairi Mustafa Bakri, DiD 2019 Participants, Syarifah Nor Amirah Syed Shamsudin

DIPLOMATIC VOICE | 17 IN AND AROUND IDFR

Diploma in Diplomacy 2019’s Graduation Ceremony

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The Launch of the Foreign Policy Framework of the New DiD Participants’ Attachment Programme at New Delhi, India, 27 Malaysia, 18 September July to 3 August

Workshop on Public Diplomacy and Media Skills, 27-29 August

DiD Participants’ Attachment Programme at New Delhi, India, 27 Ambassador Lecture Series 2/2019, 26 September July to 3 August

Courtesy Call by H.E. Ardasher Qodiri, the Ambassador DiD Participants’ Attachment Programme at Manila, The Philippines, 27 July to 3 Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of August Tajikistan, 29 August

DIPLOMATIC VOICE | 19 IN AND AROUND IDFR

Fine Dining, Reception and Official Entertaining Session, Dorsett Hotel KL, DiD Participants’ Attachment Programme at Manila, The 10 July Philippines, 27 July to 3 August

SPKM: Pre-Posting Orientation Course for Home-Based Staff and Spouses 3/2019, 8-17 July

DiD Participants’ Attachment Programme at Jakarta, Republic of Indonesia, 27 Workshop on Public Diplomacy and Media Skills, July to 3 August 27-29 August

Workshop on Intercultural Communication, Awareness and The Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Programme, 9 Diplomacy, 18-20 September October

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