Volume 3 2012
ISSN 2289-1277
ASEAN Anniversary Forum 2012
ASEAN. This is very essential to cultivate awareness amongst ASEAN people on issues related closely to them.
The Deputy Foreign Minister, Se- nator A. Kohilan Pillay, delivered an address on behalf of the Foreign Minister. Senator Kohilan spoke on ASEAN Community 2015: A People- Centred ASEAN, believing that the Asia Pacific region will continue to be the main engine for global eco- nomic growth in the years to come. If there are in place rules and norms to govern behaviour of states, ASEAN members need to ensure the con- tinued strength, innovation and neu- trality of ASEAN and in so doing, firmly place ASEAN at the heart of The ASEAN Anniversary Forum private universities. The forum the evolving regional architecture. 2012 was jointly organised by IDFR, is one of the annual events held They also need to take measures the ASEAN-Malaysia National Se- to commemorate the ASEAN to ensure the fullest implementation cretariat and Universiti Teknologi Anniversary, which is in its 45th of all the action lines contained in MARA (UiTM) on 5 October 2012. installation this year. the three ASEAN Blueprints – Poli- The 250 participants who attended tical Security, Economic and Socio- the forum were mostly officials Tan Sri Mohd. Radzi Abdul Rahman, cultural leading to the establishment from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs the Secretary General of the Ministry of the ASEAN Community. He em- and other government agencies, of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia, in his phasised that ASEAN colleagues are members of the diplomatic corps, welcoming remarks, touched on the the best assets for ASEAN and they former Malaysian ambassadors, objective of the forum which was to must be fully involved in their region- representatives from think tanks, provide a platform for members of building efforts. He then reminded government linked companies and the public service, the academia, the participants of the challenges in non-governmental organisations, the private sector, NGOs and the promoting People-Centered ASEAN members of youth groups and diplomatic community to openly students from several public and discuss on specific themes related to Continued on page 11 >>
CONTENTS
1 ASEAN Anniversary Forum 2012 Please like IDFR’s Facebook 2 - 3 Profile of Prominent Person page and be informed of 4 - 5 Forum upcoming events 6 - 13 News 14 - 19 In and Around IDFR 20 - 32 News
DIPLOMATIC VOICE PROFILE OF PROMINENT PERSON
Dr. Surin Pitsuwan Secretary-General of ASEAN
Q: How would you describe the ASEAN Secretariat?
A: The Secretariat can be best described as the “heart of ASEAN”, its central mechanism. It is the only Organ of ASEAN which has an “exclusively ASEAN character”. By this, I mean that while all ten ASEAN member states through their natio- nal secretariats and representatives such as the Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR) represent the interests of the member states, the ASEAN Secretariat, on the other hand, represents the holistic interests of ASEAN as an organisation and community. Its importance and the commitments that the ten ASEAN accelerate political and socio-cultural role should grow as ASEAN’s own governments have agreed to at cooperation to protect our people. role in the region and in the global the ASEAN level and learn how to community of nations expands. resolve our differences expeditiously. There is no turning back on this noble ASEAN’s greatest challenge in the ASEAN has not managed to overcome project that the five founding members next few years is to build a strong, ef- some of these fundamental challenges. of ASEAN decided to embark on. fective and resilient Secretariat that can deliver the goals of peace, friendship Come 2015, goods will flow freely. Q: Rohingya Muslims are viewed by the and prosperity. This means that people in each United Nations as “one of the world’s ASEAN country should be prepared most persecuted minorities”. Do you Q: 2015 is only three years away. to compete within the region and the think Aung San Suu Kyi could play a What are some of the things that world. There will be winners and lo- role in easing the resentment towards should already be in place right now sers, so we should have the suppor- them in her own country? for the ASEAN community to be ting infrastructure in place. We also realised? need to re-skill ourselves to meet the A: This is a very complicated issue competition. which is part of what I refer to as A: We must adopt a “regional” mind- the “Myanmar problem” which has set and understand the benefits of Rapid globalisation also ensures historical, cultural, human security and ASEAN to our peoples. Our next that all our peoples are vulnerable development dimensions. It is an issue biggest challenge is governance – to transnational threats like climate that is best managed by the Myanmar we must strengthen our regulations change, disasters, terrorism, traffic- government and people. The Myanmar and institutions to realise our king of people and drugs, health government knows that we in ASEAN ambitions at all levels. This involves pandemics and others. There will be an and the international community changing our national laws to meet increase of these threats, so we must including the United Nations stand ready to help prevent the violence from escalating. I have pointed out that this Rohingya problem should NOT be viewed exclusively as a “Muslim” issue. It also has clear constitutional, humanitarian and human rights dimensions. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi as much as the Government of Myanmar have interests to manage a difficult issue with justice and care. I have warned recently that this issue has geopolitical implications that affect all countries if the Rakhine coast is radicalized. This will not be good for Myanmar, ASEAN and the international community.
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Q: If there is one thing that ASEAN can Dr. Surin Pitsuwan, Secretary to Deputy Minister of Interior, learn from the European Union, what born on 28 October Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs during would it be? 1949, is a native of Na- 1992-1995 and Minister of Foreign Affairs korn Sri Thammarat, from 1997 to 2001. He served as Chair of Southern Thailand. He the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting and the A: The idea of One Europe is visionary received his primary Chair of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the European Union has been a and secondary educa- in 1999-2000. In September 1999, while source of inspiration for ASEAN and tion in his home pro- on the ASEAN Chair, he led the efforts will always be. There are many lessons vince. to get Southeast Asian governments to help restore law and order and that for us but the single most important in He was awarded the American Field joint undertaking, with the support of my view is how the Europeans aspire Service (AFS) exchange scholarship and the United Nations and the international to build permanent peace based on was a high school exchange student community, brought about peace and fundamental freedom, economic and in Minnesota, USA, in 1967-1968. He security in East Timor. social prosperity. returned to Bangkok, Thailand and attended Thammasat University for two Upon leaving the foreign affairs portfolio years before winning a scholarship from in mid-2001, Dr. Surin was appointed a Q: Could you share some of the Claremont Men's College, Claremont, member of the Commission on Human highlights since you became the California, to complete his B.A. in Security of the United Nations until 2003. ASEAN Secretary-General? Political Science (cum laude) in 1972. He also served as an advisor to the He then went on to Harvard University, International Commission on Intervention Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S.A., and State Sovereignty from 1999-2001. A: I had a modest aim when I became where he received his M.A. and Ph.D. in In 2002, he concurrently served on the Secretary-General and that was to 1974 and 1982 respectively, in the field ILO's World Commission on the Social make the average citizen in our region of Political Science and Middle Eastern Dimension of Globalization until 2004. aware of ASEAN and to understand Studies. He is currently on the Advisory Board how regional integration will make a of the UN Human Security Trust Fund; His entire Harvard career was supported the Advisory Board of the International difference to their lives. According to a by the Winston S. Churchill Association Crisis Group (ICG); a member of the recent survey of awareness, 81 per cent and Rockefeller Foundation Fellowships. International Advisory Board of the of those surveyed showed awareness He also spent a year and a half studying Council on Foreign Relations in New of ASEAN. This is heartening. Another Arabic and conducting his research at York; an International Academic Advisor “highlight” is knowing that more the American University in Cairo, 1975- of the Centre for Islamic Studies, Oxford 1977, while concurrently a fellow at the University; and an advisor to the Leaders stakeholders of ASEAN – the business Higher Institute of Islamic Research, Project, a conference arm of the Cohen community both local and foreign, Cairo, Egypt. He worked as a columnist Group of former US Secretary of Defense parliamentarians, non-government for The Nation and the Bangkok Post, the William S. Cohen Washington, D.C. organisations, young people, etc. – two leading English daily newspapers in Between 2002-2004, Dr. Surin was also a are knocking on ASEAN’s doors to Bangkok, from 1975-1992. member of the "Wise Men Group" under the auspices of the Henri Dunant Centre participate in community-building. It is Dr. Surin taught at the Faculty of Political for Humanitarian Dialogue (HDC) in also worthy to note that many countries Science at Thammasat University from Geneva, advising the peace negotiations want to establish stronger ties with 1978-1983 and 1984-1986. He also between the Acehnese Independence ASEAN, including the US, Australia, served as an assistant to the Deputy Movement (GAM) and the Government Japan and others. So to date, we Dean for Academic Affairs during the of the Republic of Indonesia. He has just same period. completed his assignments as a member have over 66 countries which are now of the Islamic Development Bank's 1440 accredited to ASEAN. Many of them, Dr. Surin joined the American Political A.H. (2020) Vision Commission under the including the US, China, Republic Science Association's Congressional Fel- leadership of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, of Korea and Japan have missions lowship Program in 1983-1984, when he former Prime Minister of Malaysia, in June to ASEAN that are distinct from their interned in the Congressional Office of 2005. US Representative Geraldine A. Ferraro bilateral missions to Indonesia. This (D-New York), who later became the Vice Dr. Surin was a Deputy Leader of the is evidence of ASEAN’s growing Presidential Candidate for the Democrat Democrat Party, Thailand. He also importance and influence. So at many Party in 1984, and worked for the Senate served on the National Reconciliation levels, ASEAN is progressing well. Republican Conference in the later half of Commission (NRC), charged with 1984. He taught Southeast Asian Affairs bringing peace and security back to at the American University in Washington Thailand's deep South. He also served as Q: What are your plans after your term D.C. during that same year. MP in the National Legislative Assembly as the Secretary General ends in (NLA). He was nominated by the Royal December? He returned to Thailand in 1984 to his Thai Government and endorsed by teaching position at Thammasat and ran ASEAN Leaders to be ASEAN Secretary- A: I plan to take a well-deserved rest for a Parliamentary seat from Nakorn General for year 2008-2012. Sri Thammarat, his home town. He has and spend as much time as possible been returned to Parliament eight times with my family. since 1986. As an MP, he was appointed Secretary to the Speaker of the House of Representatives (Chuan Leekpai),
DIPLOMATIC VOICE | 3 FORUM
What is at Stake in the South China Sea Dispute? Contributed by Dr. Tang Siew Mun
China’s “charm offensive” has run Suffice to say that the SCS is a highly its security relations with the US. its course. At the early stages of emotive issue that could potentially Under its pivot strategy, Washington is Beijing’s outreach to Southeast undermine regional security. happy to oblige and close ranks with Asia, it was easy to focus on “low Manila and other allies in the region. hanging fruits” such as preferential A good point of departure in any Likewise, Vietnam has a long list of trade incentives, competitive loans discussion on the SCS dispute would grievances against alleged Chinese and investment. To be sure, Beijing’s be an analysis of the stakes involved. transgressions. While Beijing could wooing of Southeast Asia was Glancing at China’s infamous nine- counter these allegations by stressing welcomed and highly appreciated dotted line map, one could easily the provocative actions aimed at across the region. Although some 15 surmise that the stakes revolve around China, it has to be mindful of its years have passed since the 1997 the control over the countless number growing image as a “bully.” financial crisis, China’s decision not to of reefs, rocks, shoals, atolls, islands devalue the yuan and offers of financial and other subterranean features. There There is a lot that China could do to assistance to countries hamstrung is also the instrumental dimension of buttress its claims and to affirm its by the debilitating crisis continues the oil and gas reserves that the SCS sovereignty in the SCS. The elevation to stand as a testament of China’s is reportedly to hold, and the bountiful of Sansha to a prefecture from the goodwill towards Southeast Asia. fishery resources. The strategic value previous designation of a “county” on of controlling the maritime areas of 24 July 2012 is one such measure. While some extra-regional parties the SCS that straddle the lifeline of the However, it was the announcement by assiduously sound the clarion call of critical East-West trade is immense. the Central Military Commission that the looming Chinese threat, Southeast All these interests are important but authorised the formation of a garrison Asia remained steadfast in their in the larger scheme of things, they command that evoked strong emotions belief of China’s benign intentions. are peripheral to China’s interest of in the region. Every measure that However, regional perceptions – and gaining recognition and acceptance Beijing takes to strengthen its position their comfort level – of China are by ASEAN states as a peaceful, in the SCS – however legitimate – will changing. Much to the chagrin of friendly and productive neighbour. be seen as destabilizing at best and both sides, relations between China provocative at worse. The stronger and its southern neighbours are at China has the wherewithal to China becomes in the SCS, the weaker its lowest point in two decades. How establish a dominant foothold in the it becomes in Southeast Asia. did Beijing’s successful and careful SCS. The People’s Liberation Army’s cultivation of Southeast Asia become development of a blue water navy is China may ostensibly gain control of unhinged? The answer is found in closely and nervously tracked by all the SCS, but at what cost? A victory in three words – South China Sea. of Southeast Asia’s maritime nations, the SCS is hollow, as it would effectively least because they do not have the burn the bridge that currently links The South China Sea (SCS) dispute capabilities to match or counter Beijing to Southeast Asia. To be is a long-standing issue that predates China’s growing naval power. The sure, different ASEAN states view the “rise of China.” Together with the commissioning of its first aircraft the stakes in the SCS differently. For Korean Peninsula and the Straits of carrier, the Liaoning, is a game some countries like Cambodia, Laos Formosa, the SCS forms three of the changer and signals the advent of and Myanmar, it is not an issue that region’s most volatile flash points. China as a maritime power. This will resonates strongly and it is certainly In comparison, tensions and the further strengthen China’s already not a core interest to risk locking occasional flare-ups between the SCS considerable military power that it can horns with China. The claimants have claimants – Brunei, China, Malaysia, bring to bear in the SCS in support a direct stake and are thus the most The Philippines and Vietnam – have of its claims. However, having the invested. Indonesia and Singapore – been mild compared to the stand- capabilities does not imply that China non-claimant states – have placed the offs between China and Chinese will use its overwhelming military SCS high on their diplomatic agenda, Taipei and the destabilizing effects superiority to cow the claimants into recognising that the brewing storm of Pyongyang’s nuclear programme. submission. Will China exercise self- over the SCS will negatively impact However, the temperature in the SCS restraint? Can Southeast Asia take regional stability and security. For has been rising and the dispute is China’s peaceful development to China though, what is at stake is not a high security concern for ASEAN heart? the possible loss of territory or forgoing states. of the seabed and fishery resources From the vantage point of Hanoi and but China’s standing and credibility in The disputes between China and the Manila, China’s behaviour in the SCS the region. claimants are well-documented and has been anything but peaceful or have received wide media coverage, benign. In fact, China’s aggressiveness A further escalation of tension in the and need not be repeated here. is driving The Philippines to strengthen SCS will compel the claimant states
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to seriously consider – if they have trusted security partner and its pivot The diplomatic costs and damage to not already done so – if China is a strategy pronouncements seem to China’s reputation increases as long trustworthy and credible regional imply that it remains committed to the as the SCS dispute remains in the partner. The SCS is thus a litmus test region’s peace and stability. The net limelight. The COC is an opportunity for for China. Its management of the SCS effect of the strategic shift to the US is China to demonstrate and reaffirm its dispute is providing Southeast Asia – the bifurcation of the region. Southeast friendly and cooperative relations with and the world – a preview of how China Asia will be divided into pro-Beijing and the ASEAN states. More importantly, it might use its power when it is fully pro-US camps, which is reminiscent would go a long way to dispel the notion developed. In other words, Chinese of the Cold War. A divided Southeast of China’s increasing assertiveness. behaviour in the SCS portends of Asia will have dire consequences for Secondly, ASEAN claimant states things to come with regard to China’s ASEAN and regional cooperation. should exercise self-restraint by role in the region – and the world. not managing the dispute through The responsibility (and blame) for the megaphone diplomacy. In convin- China needs to walk the talk of mismanagement of the SCS dispute cing China to meet on the COC, ASEAN peaceful development and resist does not begin and end at Beijing’s states should assure Beijing that the temptation of leveraging on its doorsteps. There is a degree of the meeting would be held in a con- superior power asymmetry relative grandstanding on all sides, including ducive and friendly environment where to the ASEAN states. It would be the ASEAN claimants. It is convenient meaningful discussions can take disastrous for China if it were to assert to paint China as the “bully” but this is place. Attempts to exact a pound of its claims in the SCS through military hardly a constructive way to prevent diplomatic flesh from China would be force and intimidation. This is an further escalation of the dispute and detrimental and severely undermine equally nightmarish proposition for the deterioration of ASEAN-China China’s faith and interest in moving ASEAN states to contend with. ties. China has to see the merit to the forward on the COC. immediate commencement of talks on Faced with an assertive China, ASEAN a regional code of conduct (COC). The There should be no illusions of a states are essentially left with three Joint Statement of the 15th ASEAN- solution to the SCS dispute in the near options. They may elect to capitulate China Summit on the tenth anniversary term. The best that ASEAN states and accede to Chinese domination of the Declaration on the Conduct of and China could hope to achieve is and control. This is an unlikely Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) to prevent the conflict from escala- proposition and one that will not find should not detract from the urgency ting and to manage expectations. much support among their respective and imperative of a binding framework ASEAN and China relations have national constituents. Alternatively, to manage the five parties’ relations improved markedly since 1991 when they may rise up to the Chinese and expectations vis-à-vis the SCS. the latter’s foreign minister, Mr. Qian challenge. Given the vast power Unless and until such a framework Qichen attended the opening session asymmetry between China and the is established, ASEAN-China ties of the 24th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting ASEAN states collective resources, will be susceptible to the claimants’ in Kuala Lumpur at the invitation of this is an unrealistic option. This leaves miscalculations and missteps. A code Malaysia. The SCS dispute is a thorny the ASEAN states with the last option of conduct that binds China will also concern in need of urgent attention of seeking out powerful allies that serve to bind and govern the actions and management. The COC is an share the same strategic concerns of the ASEAN state claimants. The important and vital first step towards vis-à-vis China. States with formal proposed COC should be seen as an the resolution of the dispute. It also alliances with the US will deepen their implement to stabilize relations in the contains and limits possible fallout partnership with Washington, while SCS and not a tool directed at China. from damaging the strong bilateral others may opt to establish one. political, economic and social ties The formal commencement of between ASEAN states and China. Chinese nervousness of ASEAN discussions on the COC would be Both parties can ill afford to allow the states forming and consolidating a welcomed development and is SCS dispute to define their bilateral security relations with the US can an unequivocal sign of the ASEAN relations. be gleaned from Beijing’s frequent states and China’s resolve to maintain assertion that alliances are Cold War regional peace and stability. There Dr. Tang Siew Mun is relics. Strategically, Beijing is loathe are at least two major hurdles that Director for Foreign to see an increase in the number of need to be overcome before such Policy and Security US allies in the region. Nevertheless, a meeting could take place. Firstly, Studies at the Institute uncertainties of China’s strategic Beijing needs to be persuaded to set of Strategic and International Studies intentions and concerns of its growing aside their contention that “the time is (ISIS) Malaysia. The assertiveness are nudging the region not ripe” for discussions on the COC. views expressed here ever closer to the US. The US is a Time is clearly not on China’s side. are his own.
DIPLOMATIC VOICE | 5 NEWS
45th ASEAN Day Flag-Raising Ceremony
Senator Kohilan said that this year’s theme of One Community, One Destiny symbolises ASEAN’s determination in heading towards its shared destiny through the ASEAN Community. He also informed the audience that Malaysia will take over the chairmanship of ASEAN in 2015 and impressed on the need for everyone to work together to promote awareness on ASEAN.
Immediately after the speech, the ambassadors and high commissioners of each of the ASEAN member country stood side-by-side with their arms linked to represent On 8 August 1967, five countries The ceremony at the Ministry of Fo- the unity and close ties among them. in Southeast Asia came together reign Affairs in Putrajaya on the morn- to form a regional organisation ing of 8 August 2012 was simple yet It was a proud day for the ASEAN called the Association of Southeast very heart-warming. It was attended people as we celebrated our 45th Asian Nations, in short ASEAN. by the ambassadors and high com- anniversary and move forward to The founding member countries – missioners of each of the ASEAN achieve our common goals. Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, member country, members of the Thailand and The Philippines – were diplomatic corps, parliamentarians, later joined by Brunei, Cambodia, government officials, representa- Lao PDR, Myanmar and Vietnam tives from universities and teachers between 1984 and 1999. and students from various schools around Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. Since 2005, the anniversary of ASEAN’s establishment had been The event commenced with the celebrated with a flag-raising raising of the ASEAN flag and the ceremony in each of its member ASEAN Song was sung by everyone country. However, what makes the present accompanied by the Ministry event extra special this year was of Foreign Affairs’ Choir Group. that not only was the ASEAN flag raised in the respective countries Senator A. Kohilan Pillay, the Deputy but everywhere else where there is Foreign Minister delivered the a diplomatic mission of an ASEAN welcoming remarks on behalf of member country. the Foreign Minister. In his speech,
Baku International Humanitarian Forum
At the gracious invitation of H.E. don Diplomatic Academy, involved He also mentioned that the Azerbai- Elmar Mammadyarov, Minister of in the forum. jani society is tolerant, and will treat Foreign Affairs of the Republic of with respect and understanding Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijan Go- The forum, attended by appro- the lifestyle of other nationalities, vernment, Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku ximately 717 participants from 70 whether they want to integrate into Shaari, attended and participated countries, was officially opened a single society or prefer to hold on in the Baku International Humani- by the President of the Republic of to their traditions and beliefs. tarian Forum held in Baku, Azerbai- Azerbaijan, H.E. Ilham Aliyev. In his jan from 4 to 5 October 2012. IDFR speech, he focused on the fact that The plenary session, which was is one of two diplomatic academies, efforts should be put into the deve- held on the first day of the forum, the other being the prestigious Lon- lopment of a multicultural society. was divided into two parts. Part
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would be willing to work with the Azerbaijan Government to promote racial and cultural harmony.
Dato’ Ku Jaafar also introduced and clarified the idea of the Glo- bal Movement of the Moderates (GMM), first mooted by the Prime Minister, to fight extremism and pro- mote peace through moderation as a way of life for people across the globe. This motion received over- whelming support by the partici- pants of the forum. It was also fea- tured in numerous print and visual media in both Azerbaijan and other countries. One, chaired by H.E. Elmar Mam- This session was pivotal in pro- madyarov, featured ten speeches viding a platform for participants The final Declaration was adopted by former presidents as well as to discuss and engage in a more following the Baku International Hu- two speeches by representatives serious manner the possible ways manitarian Forum. The document in of international organisations. Part of adopting multiculturalism seam- particular, urged the public, poli- Two of the plenary session featured lessly into the Azerbaijan way of life ticians and scholars to fully sup- eleven speeches by Nobel Laure- specifically and the world generally. port Azerbaijan's initiative to create ates as well as presentations by Members of the roundtable discus- a special research centre cove- seven respective chairmen of the sion agreed that multiculturalism ring world multicultural problems. roundtable discussions, and was does and can continue to play an According to the document also, chaired by Mr. Mahmud Karimov, integral part in today’s society. the comprehensive and multi-level President of the Azerbaijan National dialogue held within the Baku Fo- Academy of Science. In his speech, Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku rum gave hope to the possibility of Shaari among others, spoke on an effective resistance to the cur- The second day of the forum was the approaches taken by Malaysia rent challenges of our time. allocated for the roundtable dis- to promote cross-cultural under- cussions which were held at se- standing within the country. He also The Azerbaijan Government’s ini- veral venues. The topics discussed expanded on the activities under- tiative in organising an interna- were Humanitarian Aspects of Eco- taken by IDFR to promote cross- tional forum such as this is com- nomic Growth Models, Converging cultural understanding and the ef- mendable as it proved Azerbaijan’s Technologies and Outlines of Fu- forts being undertaken by ASEAN seriousness in pursuing a subject ture, Modern Mass Media and New in achieving its vision of a ‘People- matter they feel strongly about. Challenges, Traditional System of Centered’ ASEAN Community by It also marked their arrival in the Values in a Post-Modernist Culture, 2015. He also stated that Malaysia world arena. New Methodological Approaches to the Processes of Globalization in the 21st Century, Technologies, Changing a View on Modern Medi- cine, and Molecular Biology, Multi- culturalism and Cultural Self-Con- sciousness and Multiculturalism in the Life of a Society.
Not merely a participant, Dato’ Ku Jaafar was also elected as co- chairman of the seventh and eighth roundtable discussion on Multi- culturalism and Cultural Self-Con- sciousness and Multiculturalism in the Life of a Society respectively.
DIPLOMATIC VOICE | 7 NEWS International Forum on Diplomatic Training: 40th Meeting of Deans and Directors of Diplomatic Academies and School of International Affairs by Rosmahyuddin Baharuddin The 40th Meeting of Deans and Directors of Diplomatic Academies and School of International Relations was successfully convened from 26 to 30 September 2012 at the Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy (ADA), Baku, Azerbaijan.
The forum was jointly organised by the Vienna Diplomatic Academy, Austria and Georgetown University, United States of America together with the Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy (ADA), Azerbaijan. It was officiated by His Excellency Dr. Hafiz Pashayev, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Azerbaijan and Rector of ADA and this was followed by brief remarks from Dr. Paula Newberg, Director of the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy, Georgetown The Malaysian delegation was led were also three parallel op- University. by IDFR’s Director General, Dato' tional thematic workshops namely, Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari. With the eDiplomacy Training – Hype and The 40th forum saw the participa- theme Diplomatic Training in the Reality, Content-Based Language tion of more than 90 directors and 21st Century: Sharing Experiences Instruction for Diplomacy and Using representatives of diplomatic aca- and Meeting New Challenges, the Reality in Training for Diplomats in demies from more than 60 countries 40th forum discussed issues on Negotiation. covering all regions, among them diplomatic training, as well as global Afghanistan, Albania, Argentina, political issues and its impacts on During the three-day forum, the Austria, Canada, France, Indonesia, the design of modules for diplomatic participants were also taken on a Iran, Kenya, Malaysia, Qatar, Russia, training. The forum was broken down tour of the Old City of Baku. South Africa, United Kingdom and into several panel discussions on United States of America. This year’s various topics namely, diplomacy The forum was officially closed gathering registered an increased of small states, energy diplomacy, by His Excellency Dr. Samad number of participants compared to landscape changes of world politics, Seyidov, Chairman of the Azer- the 39th forum held in Boston, USA evolution of regional organisations baijan's Parliament Committee on in 2011. and environmental issues. There Foreign Policy.
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13th Asian Bioethics Conference by Ravichandran Moorthy, Ph.D.
The 13th Asian Bioethics Conference, man actions and ‘way of life’. Over concept of bioethics. Although the was held at IDFR from 27 to 30 the last century, with the rapid advent questions of ethics were addressed August 2012. Held concurrently with of science and technology, almost all in numerous other platforms, there the 6th UNESCO Asia Pacific School aspects of human endeavour have was not any authoritative platform to of Ethics Roundtable, this four-day experienced some level of changes. address bioethical issues. Malaysian conference witnessed 100 papers Consumerism, consumption, popula- bioethics is still in its infancy, we do being presented by scholars and tion explosion and changes in life- not have specific standards or sets post-graduate students from over style and life choices have brought of values to subscribe to. 20 countries from Asia Pacific and about many challenges to human, beyond. humanity and the environment. The ethno-religious plurality of the Malaysian society, while offering This conference was jointly orga- These new developments have an interesting myriad of colourful nised by the Asia-Pacific Forum on brought about new ethical demeanour, also offers multiple sets of Ethics and Social Justice, a forum challenges to how we manage value-systems that sometimes come dedicated to the advancement of issues related to, among others: in contention with each other. Such a knowledge and understanding of health, disease and medical ethics; situation may prove to be an arduous ethics and social justice in the Asia- research integrity and responsibility; task for the development of national Pacific and IDFR as its main strategic emerging technologies; women bioethics culture or standards. This partner. and gender; environmental ethics eventually will be the major challenge and sustainability; and bioethics for the newly established National Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari, Director education. As such, she proposed Bioethics Council to address. General of IDFR in his welcoming that such ‘human-induced’ problems remarks highlighted the point that require ‘ethical reasoning’ in its In his concluding speech, Dr. Ravi- the knowledge regarding bioethical mitigation efforts. This is where chandran Moorthy, the Organising issues, which are very much bioethicists can play significant Chairperson and the President of Asia international in nature, is useful roles to provide moral and ethical Pacific Forum on Ethics and Social Jus- for diplomats and bureaucrats. guidance in policy formulation and tice said that the conference Diplomats and persons dealing with societal awareness. has fostered bioethical reflections foreign affairs cannot run away from and facilitated information sharing dealing with issues such as climate Bioethics is a recent phenomenon amongst stakeholders involved in change, human security and human in Malaysia. Less than a decade multidisciplinary field of bioethics, rights, which all have bioethical ago, except for medical sciences, and has helped to demystify some of facets in their deliberations. most academics and the public in the issues that have often been con- Malaysia were almost oblivious of the sidered sensitive. This bioethics conference is an important and timely initiative to bring to the limelight the multifaceted ethical issues that affect humans and the environment. Bioethics is essentially about ethical controversies involving humans and his environment. Thus, to reflect this focus, this conference adopted the theme Bioethics and Life: Security, Science and Society – especially to highlight the broadening of the concept of security in understanding global vulnerabilities.
The conference was officiated by Prof. Tan Sri Dato’ Wira Dr. Shari- fah Hapsah Syed Hasan Sha- habudin, Vice Chancellor of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. In her opening remarks, Tan Sri Sharifah Hapsah said that the peril of climate change has very much to do with hu-
DIPLOMATIC VOICE | 9 NEWS
Official Opening of the IDFR-UKM Master of Social Science (Strategy and Diplomacy) Session 2012/2013
Ambassador Aminahtun Hj. A. Vice President respectively. Both were Karim, Deputy Director General of given the trust to facilitate and ensure IDFR officiated the Opening of the the smooth sailing of this programme. IDFR-UKM Master of Social Science Fourteen students registered for (Strategy and Diplomacy) Session the programme comprising seven 2012/2013 on 4 September 2012 Malaysians and seven international at the IDFR mini theatrette. The students. The international students programme which consists of three are from Ghana, Jordan, Maldives, semesters, will run from 4 September Somalia and Tanzania. Their 2012 to 1 September 2013. academic background ranges from and to participate actively in the in- international relations, strategy and In her speech, Ambassador Aminah- stitute’s activities. They will also have defence, political science, economics, tun encouraged the students to grab direct access to prominent speakers engineering to business management. this golden opportunity and develop and experts in different fields when not only their potential but also the net- they participate in IDFR’s roundta- The students also underwent a one- working amongst them. Their varied ble discussions, forums and public week orientation programme at IDFR background could contribute towards lectures. and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia wider exchange of ideas and views respectively before starting their thereby enriching and strengthening Commander Farizal Myeor from lectures. All of them conveyed their the substantive aspect of the course. the Royal Malaysian Navy and Ms. excitement at being chosen to be She also reminded them to consider Sharifa Barki Juma from Tanzania part of IDFR, a renowned diplomatic themselves as part of the IDFR family were elected as Class President and training institute.
Orientation Course for Spouses of Malaysian Diplomats IDFR successfully organised the new- of Foreign Affairs and Royal Protocol sixth series which was on Official Writ- ly introduced Orientation Course for delivered by Encik Omar Baba, a pro- ing Skills and Meeting Management Spouses of Malaysian Diplomats from tocol consultant. The second series was presented by Dr. Abdul Rahim September to December 2012. The which was held on 19 September Said, Consultant, Rahimsaid Consult- course was designed specifically for 2012, focused on the topic Emotion ing Services on 7 November 2012. the spouses of Malaysian Diplomats and Stress Management and Recep- On 28 November 2012, the seventh as well as for members of the Ladies tion and Official Entertaining delivered series on Grooming and Reception Association of the Ministry of Fo- by Puan Shahreen Kamaluddin, Ma- and Official Entertaining (Practicum) reign Affairs Malaysia (PERWAKILAN). naging Director Shahreen Corporate was conducted by Puan Rahimah Communications. Yeop, Director of Academic Studies, The main objective of the course was Research and Publication, IDFR. to prepare the spouses for their roles The third series of the course was and responsibilities while accompany- held on 10 October 2012 on the topic The last series for the course was held ing their respective spouses abroad. Communication Skills presented by on 20 December 2012 where Dr. Ab- The course content was planned Ms. Jackie Clarke, Senior Teacher, dul Rahim Said delivered a lecture based on discussions with Datin Sri Professional Development Unit, British on Teamwork and Leadership. Puan Siti Rubiah Abdul Samad, Patron of Council Malaysia. The fourth series on Sri Jazliza Jalaluddin, President of PERWAKILAN and wife of the Minis- Cooking Demonstration and Practi- PERWAKILAN concluded the course ter of Foreign Affairs, Puan Sri Jazliza cum was organised on 24 October where she was invited to deliver a talk Jalaluddin, President of PERWAKI- 2012, where Encik Mohd Zain Ku- on The Role of Spouse to the partici- LAN, Dato’ Rohana Ramli, Deputy tut, Lecturer from the Faculty of Food pants. Secretary General of Service Ma- Service Management, Department of nagement of the Ministry and Ambas- Culinary and Gastronomy, Universiti The closing ceremony and certifi- sador Aminahtun Hj. A Karim, Deputy Teknologi MARA (UiTM) conducted cate presentation was held at the VIP Director General of IDFR. the practical session. Dining Room over luncheon. The participants were delighted with the The scheduled seven series course Subsequently, on 31 October 2012, overall implementation and organisa- began on 5 September 2012. The first the fifth series on English Language tion of the course. They also further series was on Perks and Privileges de- and Public Speaking was conducted expressed their interest to participate livered by Dato’ Nor’Aini Abd Hamid, by Madam Joyce Abraham, English in future programmes tailored specifi- Chief of Inspectorate from the Ministry Language Teacher from IDFR. The cally for the spouses.
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Strategic Negotiations for the Joint Ministerial Committee for Iskandar Malaysia (JMCIM-IRDA)
At the request of the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), IDFR successfully organised the first Strategic Negotiations for the Joint Ministerial Committee for Iskandar Malaysia (JMCIM-IRDA) course from 3 to 4 September 2012.
Participants of the said course were led by Dato’ Benjamin Hasbie, Fe- deral Commissioner of IRDA. In total, 59 participants attended the course ranging from the immigration, trans- port, environment, tourism, iconic project and industrial cooperation working groups committee. The ob- jective outlined for the course was to develop knowledge and under- the context of regionalism and Tan course was delivered by His Excel- standing concerning issues pertain- Sri Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, Sec- lency Dato’ Md. Hussain Nayan, ing to Malaysia and Singapore in the retary General of the World Islamic High Commissioner of Malaysia to context of negotiations. The aim was Economic Forum Foundation (WIEF) Singapore. The High Commissioner to establish positive collaboration and former Secretary General of the shared some valuable thoughts and between Iskandar Malaysia and Si- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia insights on substantive issues re- ngapore so as to increase the invest- who shared his experience as a dip- lated to Malaysia-Singapore bilateral ments in Iskandar Malaysia through lomat. IDFR also arranged lectures relations. various sectors. on topics such as International Ne- gotiations delivered by Puan Rahi- In general, the participants were The two-day course saw lectures by mah Yeop of IDFR, Malaysia-Singa- pleased with the course and fur- prominent and distinguished spea- pore Future Challenges delivered by ther expressed their positive com- kers. Among them were Professor Dr. Mr. Steven CM Wong of the Institute ments concerning the knowledge, K.S. Nathan, Director of the Institute of Strategic and International Stud- exposure and benefits that they had of Malaysian and International Stu- ies (ISIS) and Economic Relations gained. IRDA had also expressed dies (IKMAS), Universiti Kebang- delivered by Dr. Sufian Jusoh of the their interest and hope that IDFR will saan Malaysia (UKM) who spoke World Trade Institute Consulting Ma- continue to organise such courses in on Malaysia-Singapore relations in laysia (WTI). The final lecture of the future.
<< continued from page 1 by 2015 which consist of changes which will be one of the key planks of ate Editor of The Star Publication. All in the thinking of the governments Malaysia’s Chairmanship in 2015. panelists gave fresh insights into the and also bureaucrats which are overview of ASEAN today, the argu- accustomed to think nationally rather A panel discussion on the same topic ments on whether ASEAN is a peo- than regionally. Next, there needs to was held. Prof. Ruhanas Harun from ple-centered organisation, important be a change from the ‘Power to the Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Ma- relations between government and Government’ mindset to a ‘Power laysia (UPNM) moderated the ses- the Civil Society Organisation (CSO) to the People’ mindset and the go- sion. The panelists were YAM Tunku and three areas that needed to be vernment must encourage active and Zain Al-‘Abidin ibni Tuanku Muhriz, focused on by the leaders which are meaningful bottom-up participation Founding President of the Institute the economic dynamics of the re- from the stakeholders in the ASEAN for Democracy and Economic Affairs gion, stability in member states and decision-making process. Lastly, the (IDEAS); Ambassador Dato’ M. Red- between countries as well as national Deputy Foreign Minister highlighted zuan Kushairi, Deputy Chairman of interest. that ASEAN must create a sense of Foreign Policy Study Group (FPSG); belonging amongst its people where Prof. Dr. K.S. Nathan, Director, Insti- The forum ended with closing ASEAN should move beyond the tute of Malaysian and International remarks delivered by Prof. Dato’ Dr. vision of a ‘People-Oriented ASEAN’ Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Ma- Abdullah Mohamad Said, Acting to a bolder ‘People-Centred ASEAN’, laysia and Mr. Bunn Nagara, Associ- Vice-Chancellor of UiTM.
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Strategic Analysis 2012 Course Ends on a High Note
ence of what Malaysia has to offer in terms of infrastructure, culture, recreation and also food. Among the places of interest visited were the PETRONAS Twin Towers, National Monument, National Mosque, Cen- tral Market, Petaling Street, Data- ran Merdeka, Batu Caves, Genting Highlands, Malaysia Tourism Cen- tre (MaTic) and the Kuala Lumpur Craft Centre.
This year’s participants were very fortunate to be given the opportunity to visit the state of Johor and Malacca for their state visit. During the visit to the state of Johor, the The closing ceremony for the Strate- knowledge of strategic thinking participants were received by gic Analysis 2012 course was held and security analysis as well as to officers from the Iskandar Regional at IDFR’s VIP Dining Room on 21 provide a platform for the sharing Development Authority (IRDA) September 2012. The three-week and exchanging of views on stra- who gave a detailed tour around course, which began on 3 Septem- tegic thinking and management. Nusajaya. Meanwhile, the visit to ber 2012, was officially closed by The three-week course adopted an the state of Malacca will forever Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari, the Di- integrated teaching and learning be etched in the memories of the rector General of IDFR. The 27 par- method in which participants learnt participants as they were greeted by ticipants comprised of government through lectures, discussions, simu- the Chief Minister of Malacca, Datuk officers and diplomats from 17 coun- lation exercises, briefings as well as Seri Haji Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam. tries in the African, American, Euro- through contextual visits. The Malacca State Government pean and Asia continents. The coun- was very kind to arrange an array tries represented were Argentina, Among the issues discussed du- of activities for the participants in Azerbaijan, Bhutan, Cambodia, Iran, ring the course were national and Malacca such as cruising along Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myan- international security, diplomacy the Malacca River, experiencing mar, Oman, The Philippines, Sri Lan- in the 21st century, and discourse rickshaw rides to Jonker Walk as ka, Sudan, Thailand, Tunisia, Uzbe- of strategy, strategic planning and well as going up the Taming Sari kistan and Yemen. thinking as well as the Malaysian revolving tower! It was indeed a Government’s Transformation Pro- memorable trip and not forgetting The closing ceremony saw partici- gramme (GTP). As no play makes the variety of food the participants pants receiving their certificates from Jack a dull boy, contextual visits tasted throughout the course such as Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari and was were also organised for the par- satay, cendol durian, fried kuetiau, later feted to a sumptuous high-tea ticipants to have first-hand experi- nasi lemak, roti canai and teh tarik. reception in true Malaysian hospita- lity style. The event was made even more unforgettable when the par- ticipants surprised everyone present by individually saying “thank you” in their mother tongue! The course participants remarked that although they were excited at the prospect of going back to their home countries, they were sad to leave after a memo- rable three-week stay at IDFR.
The course was conducted in part- nership and with the support of the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP). It was specially designed to enhance participants’
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International Relations Module for the Participants of Diploma in Public Management (DPA) 1/ 2012
IDFR and the National Institute of Public Administration (INTAN) jointly organised the International Relations Module for the Diploma in Public Management (DPA) 1/2012 from 1 to 4 October 2012 and from 5 to 8 November 2012. The module was attended by 150 officers from Sidang C and D and 149 officers from Sidang A and B respectively.
The objective of the module was to develop the participants’ know- ledge and understanding of the concept of diplomacy and inter- national relations and to provide an overview of the roles and func- tions of Malaysian diplomats as well Terrorism. The participants were also The participants were also required as to enhance knowledge concerning given the opportunity to learn the tools to do a group project presentation on Malaysia’s position on international is- of diplomacy such as international topics such as the Global Movement sues, particularly ASEAN. negotiation and English language and of the Moderates, Challenges in the diplomacy from IDFR’s experts. Mr. Middle East, Islamic Diplomacy in The module included lectures on Jeffery D. Rathke, the Public Affairs the Current World Situation, South Malaysia’s Foreign Policy, the Vienna Counsellor from the Embassy of the China Sea and Spratly Issues, the Convention and Consular Relations, United States of America in Kuala Emergence of China as Economic Malaysia’s Role in the Creation of Lumpur was also invited to share his Powerhouse, North Korean Nuclear ASEAN Community in 2015 and views on Diplomats in the 21st Century Crisis and Malaysia’s Role Towards Malaysia’s Position on Counter with the participants. ASEAN Community 2015.
Specialised Diplomatic Training Course for Libyan Diplomatic Officers was represented Diplomacy and Multilateral Diplo- at the meetings by macy. The participants also attended its ambassador, a public lecture on the Global Move- His Excellency Dr. ment of Moderates by Tan Sri Razali Bubaker Al-Man- Ismail, Chairman of the Global Move- sori, who was very ment of Moderates Foundation and keen and enthusi- a dinner talk on Diplomacy in the astic to have the 21st Century by Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Libyan diplomats Shaari, the Director General of IDFR. trained at IDFR. They were also taken on a study visit According to the to Malacca and Johor and visits to ambassador, the the Petronas Twin Towers and the Libyan govern- Malaysia External Trade Develop- ment looked up to ment Corporation (MATRADE). IDFR successfully concluded a spe- Malaysia as its close partner in the cialised Diplomatic Training Course region which could provide the ne- Overall, the Libyan diplomatic of- for Libyan Diplomatic Officers which cessary assistance in rebuilding the ficers unanimously expressed their was held from 10 to 21 September new government in Libya. satisfaction and gratitude for being 2012. The specialised training on given the opportunity to benefit from diplomacy was the culmination of a A total of 16 Libyan diplomatic offi- attending the course and the chance series of meetings and discussions cers attended the two-week course to visit Malaysia and experience the between the institute and the Libyan which included topics such as Inter- various sights and sounds of a sta- government through its diplomatic national Negotiation, Cross Cultural ble, progressive and multicultural mission here. The Libyan government Communication, Overview of Public society.
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13th Asian Bioethics Conference
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ASEAN Anniversary Forum 2012
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International Forum on Diplomatic Training: 40th Meeting of Deans and Directors of Diplomatic Academies and School of International Affairs
Courses and Events
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Ramadan and Syawal Celebration
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Diploma in Diplomacy Graduation Ceremony
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Diplomatic Training Course for International Participants Series 2/2012
It was a joyous and momentous tan, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka, During the ceremony, the diplomatic occasion for the 24 international Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turk- officers expressed their thanks for participants who completed the menistan, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Viet- the opportunity given to them to Diplomatic Training Course (DTC) nam and Yemen. attend the course where they had for International Participants Series gained valuable knowledge and 2/2012 at the Certificate Presentation The modules were tailored to meet were able to share experiences with and Closing Ceremony at IDFR on the standard and requirement of each other and the guest speakers. 19 October 2012. The ceremony preparing young officers from the was officiated by Dato’ Ku Jaafar diplomatic corps to face challenges They were also grateful that the Ku Shaari, the Director General in a fast moving global scenario. course had made them better of IDFR and attended by several However, the course was designed prepared for their future endeavour ambassadors, high commissioners to not only impart knowledge in a in the diplomatic arena. and representatives from the classroom-style setting but it also represented embassies and high involved study visits to the various commissions. government agencies and ministries around Kuala Lumpur and also The course which was the second Putrajaya. The participants were also series for the year was conducted taken to Malacca and Johor where under the sponsorship of the Ma- they were briefed on Malacca’s laysian Technical Cooperation Pro- tourism industry and the Iskandar gramme (MTCP) which provides Regional Development Authority assistance to developing countries. (IRDA) respectively. The participants The participants came from Afgha- were amazed by the tremendous nistan, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Indo- growth and development that nesia, Jordan, Lao PDR, Liberia, Malaysia has undergone since its Mauritius, Myanmar, Oman, Pakis- independence in 1957.
Mid-Career Course for Diplomats
The Mid-Career Course for Diplomats was held at IDFR from 10 to 21 September 2012. Eight selected officers from several divisions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia attended the course.
In line with the objectives of impro- ving the officers’ professional know- ledge and diplomatic skills and re- visiting some of the important areas related to diplomatic services as well as enhancing their leadership, com- munication and effective manage- ment skills, IDFR had tailored mo- dules which covered among others IDFR also invited distinguished The modules highlighted in this issues concerning the Ministry such speakers to deliver talks on current programme focused more on the as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ important topics such as ASEAN development of knowledge so as Strategic Plan and Key Performance Future Challenges and its Dialogue to ensure that the officers will be Indicator. Modules which dealt with Partners, Global Movement of Mode- well-equipped and polished to a skills in diplomacy such as Interna- rates, Public Diplomacy, Middle East certain extent. The participants were tional Negotiations, Language and Crisis, Human Rights, Role of Civil delighted and had expressed their Diplomacy, Presentation and Com- Society, Human Trafficking, Maritime appreciation to IDFR for the efficient munication Skills as well as Speech Diplomacy and Malaysia as an Inter- management and organisation of the Writing were also organised. national Islamic Financial Centre. course.
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Ramadan and Syawal Celebration
and the Master of Social Science in Strategy and Diplomacy were also introduced to the local way of celebrating Aidilfitri through the event.
Dato’ Ku Jaafar expressed IDFR’s warm welcome and pleasure at ha- ving the privilege of celebrating Ai- dilfitri with the children from MyKasih Foundation, a non-profit organi- sation that provides food aid, health awareness and financial literacy pro- grammes, children’s education and skills training programmes to less fortunate Malaysians. He acknow- ledged the diplomatic corps, col- laborators and vendors for their continuous support to the institute. He also expressed his wish that the harmonious and forgiving manner IDFR takes pride in creating a har- qadar while Encik Zarizal zoomed during Aidilfitri be observed all year monious and balanced environment into the topics of Islam, integrity round as it will lead to a conducive for its course participants and staff. and diplomacy where he reminded working environment. This includes celebrating and rejoi- everyone that integrity is about doing cing in year-round ethnic and reli- what is required and avoiding actions The children each received duit raya gious celebrations. In conjunction which are prohibited in one’s daily life presented by Dato’ Ku Jaafar and with the holy month of Ramadhan and work. Ambassador Aminahtun Hj. A. Karim, and blissful Syawal, the Welfare Club the Deputy Director General. The had arranged several activities as Taking into account that we had event, which was also part of IDFR’s part of its Ihya’ Ramadan and Syawal some international participants corporate social responsibility activity celebration. who were away from home during invoked humility and realisation Ramadan, an iftar or breaking of of the importance of sharing and The group recital of the Koran or fast was organised on 13 August caring about others, especially the Tadarus Al-Quran was held daily 2012 with the assistance of the DiD unfortunate ones. IDFR will continue throughout Ramadan and the participants. The event, which was to enhance the spiritual aspects of participants were divided into two a mini feast with sumptuous home- the working and training environment groups – the males were led by Ustaz cooked food was enjoyed by all in as this is in line with the core values Hassan Mohd Ali, our own Arabic the warm company of colleagues of IDFR. language officer while the females and friends, thus strengthening the were led by Ustazah Sakdiah brotherhood spirit. The night ended Mohamed Nusi from the Federal with Isya’ and tarawih congregational Territory Islamic Division followed by prayers. Zuhur congregational prayer.
Also held were two religious lecture The highlight of the month-long sessions where IDFR was fortunate celebration was a joyous Aidilfitri to host Al-Fadhil Ustaz Hazaruddin celebration held on 6 September Baharuddin, Grand Imam of 2012. IDFR delightedly shared the Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin the joy with children from MyKasih Mosque, Putrajaya on 26 July 2012 Foundation and their chaperones, and Mr. Zarizal Ahmad, Assistant guests from the Ministry, members of Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti- the diplomatic corps, collaborators, Corruption Commission on 2 August vendors and staff of the institute. 2012. Al-Fadhil Ustaz Hazaruddin International participants who were focused on matters of amal, nafsu, attending the Strategic Analysis tarawikh, Al-Quran and lailatul Course for International Participants
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Cultural Diplomacy
Browse through the ‘Now playing’ section in a local newspaper and chances are more than half of the movies in the list are Hollywood movies. Whether we like it or not, we have to admit that the Americans have been successful in getting across whatever message or value that they wanted to portray through movies. Hollywood is not just part of the American entertainment industry but it is also part of the American culture. The Hollywood example is a testament of how powerful culture or identity in promoting national in- them with a better understanding is as a tool for communication. terests, building relationships or en- and appreciation of its concept, hancing socio-cultural understand- theory and history. They were also Expanding the idea further, culture ing. given the opportunity to partake in is also a product that could be uti- the practice of various forms of tra- lised in the conduct of diplomacy. The DiD participants had the ditional and contemporary art. Cultural diplomacy, according to chance to experience a part of cul- an American political scientist, Dr. ture when they participated in the At the end of the five days, the Milton C. Cummings, is defined as cultural diplomacy module held at participants were treated to a tasty “the exchange of ideas, informa- Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Hari Raya spread at the National tion, values, systems traditions, Kebangsaan (ASWARA) from 3 to Visual Arts Gallery’s Aidilfitiri Open beliefs and other aspects of cul- 7 September 2012. Throughout the House. Also held at the Gallery that ture, with the intention of fostering five-day module, they were given a day was the launch of the Kuasa, mutual understanding”. To put it glimpse of the Malaysian culture, Harapan dan Tanah (Power, Hope in a more straightforward manner, which included a wide variety of tra- and Land) exhibition, which was cultural diplomacy is the facilitation ditional and modern dances, songs, officiated by its Director General, and exchange of ideas, values, tra- theatre performances, and contem- Ambassador Dato’ Mohd Yusof ditions and other aspects of culture porary visual art which provided Ahmad.
Module on Defending National Interests
The Defending National Interests to deliver his or her respective module was one of the main presentation and was required to highlights of the DiD programme. respond to questions from the floor From 6 to 10 August 2012, the 24 DiD and evaluators comprising senior participants underwent the module officials from the institute and the which was essentially a press Ministry. The participants were conference simulation exercise. The assessed based on a number of module put together into practice criteria including knowledge on many aspects that the participants the subject given, ability to remain learned in the programme such calm under stressful situation, as media and presentation skills. analytical thinking and stewardship The participants’ English language in presentation. proficiency was also put to test throughout the module. The participants also did several group activities to reflect on the The participants were assigned presentations made. They identified topics covering a wide range of key points and discussed ways domestic and international issues to improve their presentations, such as racial integration, ASEAN Global Movement of the Moderates drawing from respective presenters’ and future challenges and the (GMM). Each participant had strengths and weaknesses.
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Talk by H.E. Ambassador Datuk Paul W. Jones on Malaysia-US Bilateral Relations
His Excellency Datuk Paul W. Jones, the Ambassador of the United States of America to Malaysia, was at IDFR on 17 August 2012 to deliver a talk on Malaysia-US Bilateral Relations to the DiD participants. Also present at the talk was Ambassador Aminahtun Hj. A. Karim, Deputy Director General of IDFR, Mr. Lim Juay Jin, Director of Training and several IDFR officers.
In his talk, His Excellency Datuk Jones encouraged the junior diplomats to explore and broaden their knowledge and go beyond the comfort of their desks. He advised and English education assistance. as well as the US Presidential election, them that knowledge and information During the question and answer among others. are important tools which diplomats session, His Excellency Datuk Jones need to possess in order to have was very open, frank and informative The talk ended with appreciation a better understanding of global in discussing issues pertaining remarks from Ambassador Aminahtun issues rather than relying solely on to the United States’ involvement followed by a memento presentation speaking notes. in the South China Sea and its to His Excellency Datuk Jones. presence in The Philippines, its He also spoke on the warm, close special relationship with Israel which The talk was certainly a breath of and dynamic Malaysia-US bilateral is a contrast to not doing enough fresh air for the DiD participants in relations, which is not limited to for Palestine, its expectations on further understanding Malaysia-US politics, security and trade but also the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the bilateral relations which is not only social cooperation in fields such ineffective roles of the P5 and the useful for them but also important for as student exchange programmes future of expanding P5’s membership their future undertakings.
Diploma in Diplomacy 2012 Graduation Ceremony by Hanizah Mohd Izzuddin
“I hope your dreams take you… to the Multipurpose Hall. This was followed mutual respect. These are among corners of your smiles, to the highest by a doa recitation by Mr. Al-Hafiz the traits that the Secretary General of your hopes, to the windows of and a welcoming speech by Tan expects from Malaysian diplomats in your opportunities, and to the most Sri Mohd. Radzi Abdul Rahman, the ensuring that they would be able to special places your heart has ever Secretary General of the Ministry of manage Malaysia’s foreign relations known…” - Anonymous Foreign Affairs, Malaysia. effectively.
It was for one night, one night only In his speech, Tan Sri Mohd. The Foreign Minister, Dato’ Sri Anifah where the 24 of us celebrated the Radzi expressed that a diplomat’s Aman in his speech cautioned the end of our six-month journey at ability to multitask, to collaborate graduates that there is a mammoth the completion of the Diploma in with his colleagues, to persevere task ahead of them and he beseeched Diplomacy course. In a class of our and to prioritise, is proof of one’s them to give their level best and their own, with our colourful background passion and commitment towards fullest support and commitment and personalities, we were the class the foreign service. He went on to to the Ministry. He is confident that of 2012. say that diplomats not only need to they would be able to execute their have broad and deep knowledge duties with vigour and integrity The night commenced with the of people and countries, but also towards protecting and furthering Master of Ceremony, Ms. Nadhirah understand and be sensitive to Malaysia’s national interests. He Zainuddin, addressing the floor their norms, cultures and values. encouraged the officers to practise and welcoming all guests to the Over and above that, he said, the lifelong learning and welcomed their Graduation Ceremony for the sharing of experiences is pertinent thoughts and ideas to improve the Diploma in Diplomacy 2012 at the in seeking a common ground and Ministry’s performance.
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<< continued from page 23 The class president, Mr. Wan Mohd Afeek Afifi Wan Ali then took the floor to warmly welcome everyone and briefly informed that the graduates comprised of Malaysians and international participants from Australia, Brazil, Egypt, Laos, Namibia, Qatar, Ukraine, United States of America and Uzbekistan. Mr. Afeek also enthusiastically highlighted the astounding activities and modules undertaken by the graduates throughout the course.
During dinner, a slide presentation on the activities which took place Best Student (Overall) award to Mr. chapter has begun for us to embark throughout the course was shown Wan Mohd Afeek Afifi Wan Ali, the on, armed with the knowledge and accompanied by a performance by Best Student (Leadership) award to experience gained in preparing musicians from ASWARA. Guests Ms. Nurhezazzila Ghazali and the ourselves for the uncertainties in were later entertained by the Best Student (Speech Writing) award the future. We will strive for the best, graduates with traditional dances of to Ms. Mimi Kaur Ramday. Senator not only to fulfil our responsibilities Endang, Alu-Alu and Daling-Daling A. Kohilan also presented the best as officers in the Malaysian Foreign and songs such as Tanah Pusaka, speaker awards for the UNSC Service, but also to materialise our Someone Like You, Nobody Knows, Simulation Module to Ms. Hanizah dreams. One Moment in Time and 1Malaysia. Mohd Izzuddin, Mr. Brock Fox, Mr. The graduates also performed Mohammad Azmi Sukiang and Ms. “To accomplish great things, we Arabic, French, Mandarin and Rosfazidah Razi. must not only act but also dream; Spanish songs. not only plan but also believe”, as It was indeed a memorable night said by Anatole France, Nobel Prize Senator A. Kohilan Pillay, the Deputy for the DiD graduates who spent winner for Literature in 1921 is the Foreign Minister, presented the countless hours preparing for the best line of aspiration for hopefully diplomas and certificates to the graduation ceremony. Our journey many great things to come from the graduates. He then presented the did not stop there. In fact, a new DiD graduates.
Talk on Communication by Dato’ Yasmin Yusuff
former Miss Malaysia was willing honesty and the influence of culture to share her experiences, thoughts in communication. Dato’ Yasmin and knowledge specifically on com- Yusuff elaborated on the topics munication with the junior diplomats. by associating her work life expe- riences and sharing her vast experi- The session aimed to equip the par- ences in dealing with foreigners and ticipants with the necessary know- working abroad which would be use- ledge and skills on communica- ful and beneficial for the participants tion which are crucial in shaping a in their future undertakings. well-rounded diplomat and to facili- tate the participants in their respon- At the end of the session, the partici- On 29 August 2012, the participants sibilities especially in the inter- pants expressed their appreciation of the Diploma in Diplomacy 2012 national arena. The refreshing and to Dato’ Yasmin Yusuff on her willing- were fortunate to have Dato’ Yasmin lively session explored various areas ness to share her extensive experi- Yusuff, a prominent public figure in of communication namely, types of ence. The session which was held the communication field as a guest communication, the importance of in a laid-back and interactive man- speaker. The well-known emcee, lifelong learning, the necessity to be ner was not only enjoyable and in- actress, radio deejay, owner of a a principled person, the importance valuable but also provided a diffe- talent and casting company and of practising good values especially rent perspective on communication.
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Cherished Moments of DiD 2012 by Mimi Kaur Ramday
It has been more than two months since the DiD 2012 graduates shared their fifteen minutes of fame with proud family members, superiors and colleagues. The first few weeks after the course was very hectic. It was spent familiarising with a new division or department, adjusting to new colleagues and work culture, and going back to the routine morning drive to work. It has also been difficult to revisit the days of eating take-a-way food as opposed to the sumptuous food served at IDFR’s dining hall. Absence does make the heart grow fonder! For three days, we obediently darin and Spanish were also offered It all started on 14 April 2012 as followed all instructions and shared to give us basic communicative 24 officers registered at IDFR for our varied points of view. We had competence. the six-month DiD programme. fun getting to know each other, The batch comprised 17 officers albeit through the unconventional The Language Division is to be com- from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs way, and became mentally drained mended for implementing the Floor and one officer each from the completing the activities. In the is Yours sessions, weekly journal wri- Ministry of Health, Ministry of process, we started bonding and ting and literary appreciation week Education, Ministry of Plantation trusting each other. As fittingly as creative methods to improve our and Commodities, Malaysia External described in the words I found on the English language proficiency. Mean- Trade Development Corporation internet, “in life you will realise that while, the learning of the foreign lan- (MATRADE), Ministry of International there is a purpose for everyone you guages was also made extra special Trade and Industry (MITI), Ministry meet. Some will test you, some will and memorable when we hosted of Defence and National Institute use you, and some will teach you. lunch for the institute’s staff. Du- of Public Administration (INTAN). It But most important are the ones that ring the memorable event, food from was an unforgettable first day filled bring out the best in you. Those are the Middle East (Nasi Arab), China with getting-to-know-you sessions the ones worth keeping”. Looking (Crab Meat Soup), France (Gratin in between briefings of the do’s and back, I must say that the activities Dauphinois) and Mexico (Quesa- the don’ts at the institute. Though conducted revealed the many dillas) were served, painstakingly happy to be away from work, we colourful sides of us all. It especially prepared from scratch by us under were resigned to the fact that we opened up a new way of looking at the skilful guidance of our respective were students once more and were things we often took for granted and language teachers. Therefore, we actually quite anxious of the new life reinforced, for me at least, the fact not only learn the language but were that awaited us. that old habits do die hard! also exposed to the socio-cultural aspects of the language through the This was especially true when we The following months saw us under- country’s food, music and cultural were informed that we had to pack going an integrated teaching and heritage. and leave for a teambuilding cum learning method in which we learnt camping session at a secret location through lectures, discussions, simu- IDFR also provided us with oppor- in Janda Baik on the third day. On lation exercises, briefings as well tunities to personally meet distin- that eventful day, we trekked for as contextual visits and attachment guished personalities who shared half an hour, expecting the worse programmes. Among the key issues their valuable knowledge and expe- and finally arrived at a beautiful and covered during the programme were rience. Among them were His Royal serene site called Puncak Rimba. on Malaysia’s domestic and foreign Highness Raja Dr. Nazrin Shah Ibni The term ‘camping’ was really an policies, national and international Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah, the overstatement as we were provided issues and the many facets of diplo- Royal Patron of IDFR; YAM Tunku with a thermal blanket and duck macy. The importance of the Eng- Dara Tunku Tan Sri Naquiah Ibni feather pillows in our individual tents! lish language as an effective diplo- Tuanku Ja'afar, an expert on social matic tool was also emphasised by etiquette; and YAM Tunku Zain Al- In retrospect, this could actually be a making it a major component of the Abidin ibni Muhriz, President of the classic example of unity in adversity. programme. Arabic, French, Man- Institute for Democracy and Eco- continued on page 26 >>
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vited by the American Embassy in Kuala Lumpur for a study visit to the United States’ Carrier Strike USS George Washington CVN-73.
The three-day visit to the state of Malacca was filled with various ac- tivities such as courtesy calls, offi- cial briefings and visits to places of interest in Malacca. The one week attachment programme with the Parliament of Malaysia was spent observing the parliamentary sitting and spending time at the respec- tive parliamentary constituencies with the assigned Members of Par- nomic Affairs (IDEAS) Malaysia. Tun Mahadzir Lokman (public speaking), liament. In retrospect, the week-long Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia’s Ivy Josiah (human rights), Dato’ attachment programme with the em- former Prime Minister, Tun Mohd Yasmin Yusuff (communication), bassies in Thailand and Indonesia Khalil Yaakob, Governor of the state Puan Rozanah Ibrahim (language) gave us a greater understanding of of Malacca, Dr. Surin Pitsuwan, the and others. As icing on the cake, the role and function of Malaysian Secretary General of ASEAN, H.E. IDFR also managed to secure Prof. missions. These visits and attach- Dato’ Paul Wayne Jones, U.S. Am- Emeritus Datuk Dr. Zakri Abdul ment programmes attested to the bassador to Malaysia, H.E. Ong Hamid, Science Advisor to the Prime fact that learning opportunities and Keng Yong, High Commissioner of Minister, who aptly shared with us on knowledge sharing do exist even in Singapore to Malaysia and former the topic of science diplomacy. places one would least expect. After Malaysian diplomats, among them undergoing all these modules, we Tan Sri Razali Ismail, Tan Sri Hasmy Words cannot fully describe the grat- discovered newfound respect for the Agam, Tan Sri Hamidon Ali, Datin itude we felt to the institute for giving two ASEAN member states, as well Paduka Melanie Leong and Dato’ us this priceless chance of a lifetime. as our homegrown state leaders and Lily Zachariah. A tea talk event with In a matter of six months, we were MPs, for they too are diplomats in Tan Sri Mohd Radzi Abdul Rahman, exposed to a variety of issues and their own special way. Secretary General of the Ministry of learnt twice as much as when we Foreign Affairs, was also organised were at the Ministry. During the pro- In short, the time spent at IDFR was to enable him to share his views and gramme, there were many modules optimised to give maximum impact aspirations of future diplomats. Oc- worth mentioning but the significant to ensure that we become better casionally, there were also sessions ones that left a significant impact with senior officers from the Ministry were the Defending National Inter- who shared tips on the workings of est, United Nations Security Council a particular department or division. simulation exercise, Regional and International Affairs Module and The programme was indeed a good definitely the Parliament attachment platform to excel as we learnt only with Members of Parliament and the from the best. IDFR managed to Mission Attachment programme with engage subject matter experts the Embassy of Malaysia in Thailand to interact with us. These include and Indonesia. In addition, various experts from the international contextual visits were also arranged circle such as Prof. Paul Meerts to the state of Malacca, Malay- (negotiation), Mr. Brian Cracknell sian Peacekeeping Training Centre (public speaking), Dr. Alistair King (MPTC), National Visual Art Gallery, (grammar), Mr. Simon Lancaster Akademi Seni Negara (ASWARA), (speech writing), Mr. Kamal Malhotra Malaysia External Trade Develop- (United Nations Development ment (MATRADE), NKRA Corrup- Programme) and Mr. Paul Alan Vernon tion Monitoring and Coordination (United Nations High Commissioner Division, Malaysia Tourism Centre for Refugees). In addition, home (MaTiC) and Karyaneka. Apart from grown experts engaged were Dato’ these, we were privileged to be in-
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diplomatic officers after graduating from the programme. Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari, the Director General also instilled in us the values of respecting others, taking responsibilities and being humble. These values often manifested in the various non-academic programmes organised during the course of the programme. Among them were a barbeque dinner, a badminton tournament, a friendly futsal match, a breaking of fast and community service at the Elephant Sanctuary at Kuala Gandah. Realising that charity always begins at home, we always made it a point to celebrate birthdays of fellow participants, the institute’s could not possibly describe all the who dedicatedly guided us through senior officers as well as Teachers’ beautiful and memorable moments the unforgettable and remarkable Day. Mr. Lim Juay Jin, the Director of we shared or even the many waking journey. What more to leave Training, was equally overwhelmed hours we were together in E209, our newfound friends who are now part when participants visited him at his classroom. of our lives… office bearing a gift for his newborn son! We cannot possibly remember As we head out and look forward vividly all the memories we have to our different journeys in life, we The journey we went through toge- shared. It would not be easy to take comfort that this is not goodbye ther was full of memories; the good, recollect the journey that we have because we will surely meet again. the funny and the bad. We had gone through in the duration. Neither Until we meet again… our share of joy and laughter, over- would it be possible to name each came our differences and endured and every one who had come difficult times. We admired and re- and left a mark in our lives. One May the road rise to meet you, spected each other’s capabilities thing for sure, we will be forever May the wind be always at and yet accepted the fact that no indebted to the esteemed institute, your back, one is born perfect. We grew and the charismatic management team May the sun shine warm upon matured together as unique individu- and its hardworking officers for your face, als as much as we stand collected moulding us to be the officers we The rains fall soft upon your fields as a group. As luck and fate would are today. Nothing can compare And until we meet again have it, all good things must come to the sad feeling that came with May God hold you in the hollow of to an end so that we would appreci- saying goodbye to the Institute and His hand. ate the value of togetherness. Words bidding adieu to senior officers
Roundtable Conference on Malaysia-Cambodia/Laos/Myanmar Relations towards Strengthening ASEAN Through Multi-Channel Dialogue
A two-day roundtable conference on of previous conferences organised spectives of Malaysia, Cambodia, Malaysia-Cambodia/Laos/Myanmar concerning ASEAN matters, this Laos and Myanmar. Relations towards Strengthening conference successfully assembled ASEAN through Multi-channel Dia- distinguished speakers and partici- The roundtable conference com- logue was held by the Foreign Policy pants from government agencies, menced with an Opening Remarks Study Group (FPSG) in collaboration NGOs, universities, diplomatic corps by Tan Sri Razali Ismail, Chairman of with IDFR and the Sasakawa Peace and talented and budding youths, FPSG and Ambassador Aminahtun Foundation (SPF) from 27 to 28 Au- who generated in-depth knowledge Hj. A. Karim, IDFR’s Deputy Direc- gust 2012. Continuing the success sharing from the multilateral per- tor General. Ambassador Aminahtun continued on page 28 >>
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international laws, agreements and conventions on territory boundary; set up comprehensive foreign policy mechanisms which could be implemented by all ASEAN member countries as well as ensure that mutual consolidations are always in practice.
ASEAN is also facing the issue of adopting international standards which are exclusive of ASEAN considerations in terms of economy. As mentioned by Tan Sri Razali Ismail, ASEAN would have to deal commended FPSG’s continuous ef- and to sustain the current growth with the standard of governance fort in engaging ASEAN issues con- rate. As the central player in the set for foreign investment by other tinuing from the previous roundtable region, there is also a need for countries regardless of the country’s conference on Malaysia-Indonesia/ ASEAN members to collectively be own governance situation. ASEAN Thailand/ Vietnam Relations towards coherent and cohesive in managing would have to consider whether Strengthening ASEAN Regionalism- the involvement and influences of to conform to the ideological and ASEAN: The Way Forward also held the global arising big powers. As an intellectual construct of western at IDFR in March of this year. organisation which promotes unity in countries or come up with ASEAN’s diversity, the closed-forged bonding own concept of what governance Ambassador Aminahtun acknow- is seen as an assurance for a feasible should be. ledged the timely convening of this ASEAN Community by 2015. roundtable for Malaysia as it would The conference concluded with ob- contribute to Malaysia preparing For the realisation of the ASEAN servations and remarks expressing for its Chairmanship in 2015, where Community 2015, Malaysia as one mutual hope for creating innova- ASEAN is set to attain the ASEAN of the leading ASEAN countries tive and fresh forms of dialogue be- Community 2015. ASEAN in 2015 is in areas such as agriculture, tween ASEAN member countries to expected to be able to pool together forestry, ICT, commercial practices, strengthen ASEAN towards ASEAN the sovereignty and development manufacturing, health and education Community 2015 and beyond. of the member countries which is in would make an ideal partner for the line with one of Malaysia’s Chairman- emerging developing countries in ship aims in 2015 – to create not just ASEAN such as Cambodia, Laos ‘People-Oriented ASEAN’ but ‘Peo- and Myanmar. These three countries ple-Centred ASEAN’. She reiterated are taking respective actions in the point stressed by the Prime Min- accordance to the Roadmap and ERRATA ister, Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Blueprints for an ASEAN Community Razak in conjunction with the 45th (2009-2015) in order to decrease the Please find appended a typing ASEAN celebration, where among development gaps among member error in Diplomatic Voice Volume others, he believes that the maturity countries amidst the changing geo- 2 2012: of the relationship among ASEAN political landscapes, economic member countries which is based on uncertainties, security threats and Page 30, under the title Attachment the concept of ASEAN Centrality and other factors. at Embassy of Malaysia in Bang- ASEAN Solidarity, will help the mem- kok, Thailand, paragraph 4, line 6, ber countries towards the efforts of Among the other recommendations ASEAN Community 2012 should resolving many issues amicably. for achieving ASEAN Community be changed to ASEAN Community 2015 is to implement social 2015. The conference identified that protection; focus on human resource cooperation, peace, development, development in the emerging We deeply regret for any conve- inclusiveness and connectivity as ASEAN countries; find solution for nience caused. well as new crucial factors such as issues of migrant workers following youth involvement and sufficient the Declaration on the Protection media coverage are needed to and Promotion of the Rights of enhance the strength of ASEAN Migrant Workers; respect for all
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The Second MIMA South China Sea Conference
The Maritime Institute of Malaysia (MIMA) organised the Second MIMA South China Sea Conference at the Doubletree by Hilton, Kuala Lumpur from 4 to 5 September 2012. The conference with the theme Geo-strategic Developments and Prospects for Dispute Management provided an ideal avenue for track- two discussion (track two initiatives allow for discussion and dialogue without being bound by political fetters) on maritime subject that is of current, mutual, regional as well as international interest.
Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari was given the honour to moderate the final panel discussion session entitled, The Way Forward in Managing Disputes in the South China Sea. Panelists for the sessions were Tan Sri Abdul Kadir Mohamad, Distinguished Fellow, Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia (ISIS); Prof. Raul The Philippines and Vietnam. China regional peace and progress. The Pangalangan, Professor of Law, and ASEAN's latest effort in regional five measures were: for ASEAN College of Law, University of The diplomacy is to finalise a new Code and China to extend strategic Philippines; Dr. Nguyen Hung Song, of Conduct in the South China Sea assurances to one another; to work Deputy Director General, Institute for which is seen as a new initiative to on additional guidelines to implement Foreign Policy and Strategic Studies, contain the tensions and establish the Declaration of Conduct; to Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam the basis for peaceful settlement of immediately start dialogue on and Dr. Xinjun Zhang, Associate the disputes. However, based on drafting a binding regional code Professor, Tsinghua University. previous results of negotiation bet- of conduct; to engage in dialogue ween China and ASEAN, the Code and cooperation to promote mutual The panelists shared their views on of Conduct will not likely establish understanding of UNCLOS and the mechanism and approaches a mechanism for actual settlement reach harmony in its interpretation, which could be taken to manage of the existing overlapping claims. application and implementation the disputes in the South China Sea. Pursuant to this, Tan Sri remarked as well as to encourage bilateral Prof. Raul Pangalangan enlightened that the genuine way forward is for relations to help manage the overall the audience on the true interests all claimant countries to really focus situation, including the territorial of the parties involved; deep sea on the core issues and start making disputes. mineral deposits, fishing rights in sincere efforts to facilitate the solu- the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), tion. He suggested two concrete Due to time constraint, Dr. Xinjun access to navigation by foreign steps to achieve the solutions: the Zhang kept his session short and ships and national security for the four ASEAN claimant countries must highlighted that if disputes are not coastal states in the territorial waters. begin the process of finding solu- resolved through agreement, it could He also shared his observation that tions between themselves to their also be based on discussion and the parties are in a dilemma as to own overlapping claims and China mutual understanding. either cooperate under the Law of must make a clear basis for its claim the Sea or claim sole rights over the in terms of international law. Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari in sea area. his concluding remarks stated Dr. Nguyen Hung Son further sparked that the claimant parties should Tan Sri Abdul Kadir then proceeded the interest of the audience by practise wisdom partnered with with the issue of overlapping mari- outlining five measures which should strong commitment to find a long- time claims between China and be taken by ASEAN and China to lasting solution and way forward in ASEAN as well as between ASEAN stabilise the tension in the South managing the disputes in the South countries, such as Brunei, Malaysia, China Sea which poses a threat to China Sea.
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The IDFR Library
the use of the library portal, http:// www.idfr.gov.my/library to access the library’s electronic resources. Users can browse through the available collection via the library’s Web OPAC at http://opac.idfr.gov.my/
Other Services Among services rendered are pho- tocopying, easy borrowing through the use of self-check machines (by using the borrower’s National Regis- tration Identity Card) and easy return through the use of a book drop kiosk which allows borrowers to return their books anytime at the hostel lobby.
Facilities The library provides a conducive reading area, computer terminals with internet access, WiFi coverage, a television and a music corner, a mini theatre with seating capacity for The library, which occupies two The objective of the library is to assist 25 people and also a board game floors, is located at Block D of the the institute in becoming a centre of corner. institute. The main collection, which excellence. It is a repository for the consists of reference, lending and discipline of international relations, The library is open from 7.30am current journals are situated on diplomacy and strategic studies. To to 5.00pm daily and is closed on the first floor, while bound journals, achieve this, further enhancement Saturdays, Sundays and public language books, multimedia, fiction on its collection is being done on a holidays. and Malaysian mission collection is regular basis. housed on the ground floor. Collection It provides research and reference The library has more than 70,000 materials as well as lending services, volumes including reference and especially to IDFR staff and course text books, journals, magazines, participants. The library also extends newspapers and audio visual its services to officers and staff materials. The collection emphasises of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, contemporary information resources Malaysia’s diplomats abroad, officials on international relations, diplomacy, of foreign embassies in Malaysia strategic studies and related subject. and researchers. The library is also In line with the rapid advancement open to the public but for reference in information communication and purposes only. technology, the library encourages
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What They Say ...
Strategic analysis, strategic thinking and related issues are essential to diplomacy in general. I learnt a lot by attending this course which implements different approaches and filled with experienced experts. The diverse backgrounds of participants enabled me to obtain a different view of issues which I knew beforehand and is very beneficial.
We all know Malaysia through the media and our reading. Mr. Moez Mahmoudi But the three weeks experience definitely showed Malaysia’s success story. We hope that it will continue to serve as a Ministry of Foreign Affairs, model for the other Muslim countries. Tunisia (Participant of the Strategic Analysis Course 2012)
I didn’t expect to have such a great course in Malaysia. I realised that there are a lot of aspects to be learned from Malaysia. I like most are the foreign policy and cultural heritage aspects.
I was well aware that I can learn about diversity of one’s culture but I didn’t expect that it applies to foreign policy. It made me realise the potential cooperation between our two countries. It’s not only about oil and gas, about Petronas, but also in humanitarian and diplomatic relations.
As for the course, this is one of the best formats and I would Mr. Murad Ozbekbayev come again for such a course. Maybe Malaysian diplomats can European Department come to Turkmenistan as we also have our institute of foreign Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Turkmenistan relations. (Participant of the Diplomatic Training Course for I’m renewed, I’m reborn. International Participants Series 2/2012)
From my personal experiences being posted to many different countries, I think that it’s something good to know the culture and it helps a lot to also know the language.
This is a good opportunity by IDFR and through this course arises the opportunity to know other people (diplomatic corps) and to know the culture better.
I am looking at this course from two perspectives which is fun learning Mr. Idriz Konjari and as an extra language apart from other languages I have learned Chargé d’Affaires a.i. throughout the years. Embassy of the Republic of Albania in Malaysia (Participant of the Conversational Malay Course 2012)
The course is very relevant as it opens my eyes to the fact that there is a huge gap in diplomacy practices for different countries. One part taught us the appropriate and internationally accepted diplomatic behavior as well as etiquette.
When we talk about training, we get the idea that we will be confined in a room, handouts and classroom sessions. But in this case, I really admire the curriculum which combined everything. From classroom sessions, study visits to interesting places, we got to learn different interesting things, left me speechless (overwhelmed with excitement). Ms. Nabiryo Olive Enid I personally have a lot to take back to Uganda. When it comes to the Department of Immigration, people, Malaysians are so warm till it brought me back the feeling of being home as Ugandans are also very warm. The Genting Highlands, Ministry of International Affairs, Uganda it’s like you’re not in Malaysia – it looks like another world with so many (Participant of the Diplomatic Training Course things to do. I wish we could have that in our country. for International Participants Series 2/2012)
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Upcoming Courses/Events at IDFR*
Spanish Level VI 7 January - 3 June 2013 Spanish Level I 8 January - 26 March 2013 Spanish Level III 1/2013 9 January - 29 March 2013 Workshop on Public Diplomacy and Media Skills 1/2013 14 - 17 January 2013 International Trade in Green Technology: 18 January 2013 Opportunities and Challenges Arabic Level IV 29 January - 26 June 2013 Arabic Level IX 30 January - 27 June 2013 Say It Right 1/2013 4 - 6 February 2013 Pre-Posting Orientation Course for Officers and Spouses under 18 February - 1 March 2013 Sistem Pentadbiran Kerajaaan Malaysia di Luar Negara (SPKM) 1/2013 Mandarin Level 1 18 February - 24 April 2013 Diploma in Diplomacy (DiD) 18 February - 15 May 2013 IR Module for DPA Participants 2/2012 26 February 2013 Building Blocks of Good English 4 - 8 March 2013 IR Module for DPA Participants 2/2012 5 March 2013 Diplomatic Training Course for International Participants 1/2013 11 - 29 March 2013 Workshop on Diplomacy for International Institute 19 - 20 March 2013 for Muslim Unity (IIMU) Participants
*Subject to changes
Best Wishes
To our colleagues who celebrated their birthdays in To our colleagues, who left us with pleasant memories October, November and December Suresh Kumar A/L K. Rengasamy – transferred to Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) October Ambassador Aminahtun, Haslil Hadi, Mohd Zaini, Rahimah, Zarina Md Yusof – transferred to the Ministry of Tourism Sarinah, Suresh Kumar Fareeza Mohd Fadzil – resigned from her contract Roziyana Che Othman – transferred to the Ministry of Women, November Family and Community Development Azmah, Khairul Bariah, Mohd Azrul Efendy, Tuan Rosazian Mohd. Zaki Hamid – transferred to INTAN Sabah December Amar Ricky Wong – transferred to the Ministry of Information, Erdee Azreen, Ghazali, Norazlin, Rabeha, Sebastian, Zaimi Communication and Culture Shukor Md. Yusof – transferred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
To our colleague who recently took the vow of matrimony To our colleagues who recently had a ‘visit from the stork’
Mohd. Fairuz Asraf Ismail Jamiah Rozali and Muhamad Idham Hairudin
In Memory of... Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of Allahyarham Encik Abdul Rashid Bidin on his demise on 7 November 2012/22 Zulhijah 1433.
May Allah SWT bless his soul and bestow him a good afterlife. Al-Fatihah
Editorial Committee Patron: Ambassador Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari Contributors: Dr. Ravichandran Moorthy, Rosmahyuddin Baharuddin, Advisor: Ambassador Aminahtun Haji A. Karim Kamariah Jaafar, Nafizal Haris Ismail, Haris Syarwani Razali, Khairul Editor: Rahimah Yeop Bariah Che Amat, Hanizah Mohd Izzuddin, Mimi Kaur Ramday, Wan Editorial Team: Noraini Nong, Dzuita Mohamed Mohd. Afeek Afifi Wan Ali
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