Diplomatic Voice Vol 3 2017

Volume 3 2017

ISSN 2289-1277

Cultural Appreciation Day 2017

On 22 August 2017, IDFR once again ces as well as food samplings ASEAN-Malaysia National Secretariat, organised a Cultural Appreciation Day were among the activities at this Istana Budaya and Kraftangan Ma- (CAD), an event which aims to year’s CAD. The participants included laysia. promote multiculturalism and cultural those from the Malaysian Technical diplomacy. It was the second one after Cooperation Programme (MTCP): As part of their showcase, the Strate- the inaugural event was held on 28 Strategic Analysis Course for Inter- gic Analysis Course participants – July last year. This year saw the after- national Participants; the Diplomatic from Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herze- noon of merriment officiated by Dato’ Training Course for Universiti Ma- govina, Fiji, Georgia, Kenya, Laos, Sri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, the laysia Sabah (UMS); and the Diploma Mauritania, Nigeria, Papua New Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. in Diplomacy (DiD), the three pro- Guinea, Uzbekistan and Vietnam – grammes taking place at the Institute donned their traditional costumes Cultural exhibitions and performan- then. Other participants included the and displayed cultural accoutrements

Continued on page 14

CONTENTS Find us on 1 Cultural Appreciation Day 2017 Facebook 2-3 Profile of Prominent Person 4-8 Forum 9-14 News 15-16 In and Around IDFR

DIPLOMATIC VOICE

from their respective countries. The Istana Budaya wowed the audience category), best booth and best per- DiD participants exhibited the cul- with a captivating and colourful formance was held. The winners were tural aspects of countries repre- fashion show on traditional costumes Mr. Afdal Izal Md. Hashim from IDFR senting the four foreign languages from the different races as well as (best dressed male) and Ms. Dorothy that they are currently learning – states in Malaysia. There was also a Chebet Rotich from Kenya (best Arabic, French, Mandarin and Spa- special showcase by the ASEAN- dressed female); the DiD Arabic class nish. The UMS course participants, on Malaysia National Secretariat which (DiD) for best booth and the UMS the other hand, performed Tarian saw national costumes from the ten participants for best performance. We Sumazau, a lively traditional dance member countries being exhibited, as laud their effort, as well as those who from the state of Sabah which got part of Malaysia’s ASEAN@50 cele- participated in the com- many in the audience, including the bration. Last but not least, Kraftangan petition and the overall event. foreign participants, joining in the Malaysia offered the opportunity for dance. Other performances were the visitors to its booth to try their hand at IDFR hopes to continue making the Cibi, an engaging traditional Fijian batik painting. CAD an annual event, and plans to war dance, the Kenyan’s fascinating invite a bigger participation in the welcoming dance, and the Bhangra, To add to the gaiety, a competition for future. a Punjabi traditional dance. best dressed (male and female On 22 August 2017, IDFR once again ces as well as food samplings ASEAN-Malaysia National Secretariat, organised a Cultural Appreciation Day were among the activities at this Istana Budaya and Kraftangan Ma- (CAD), an event which aims to year’s CAD. The participants included laysia. promote multiculturalism and cultural those from the Malaysian Technical diplomacy. It was the second one after Cooperation Programme (MTCP): As part of their showcase, the Strate- the inaugural event was held on 28 Strategic Analysis Course for Inter- gic Analysis Course participants – July last year. This year saw the after- national Participants; the Diplomatic from Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herze- noon of merriment officiated by Dato’ Training Course for Universiti Ma- govina, Fiji, Georgia, Kenya, Laos, Sri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, the laysia Sabah (UMS); and the Diploma Mauritania, Nigeria, Papua New Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. in Diplomacy (DiD), the three pro- Guinea, Uzbekistan and Vietnam – grammes taking place at the Institute donned their traditional costumes Cultural exhibitions and performan- then. Other participants included the and displayed cultural accoutrements

PROFILE OF PROMINENT PERSON

Datuk Mohamad Sadik Kethergany Director General, Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations

1. As the Director General of IDFR non-traditional security threats and to play an equally important advi- have sound knowledge of Malay- Benjamin Franklin put it aptly – 5. Where do you see IDFR in the and a senior official of the Ministry, overlapping claims are lauded. sory role to the Ministry. The trans- sia’s interests and the govern- “The qualities of a diplomat are years ahead? can you share with us your view on formation exercise is envisaged to ment’s policies. It is equally im- sleepless tact, unmovable calm- the development of Malaysia’s The Ministry has since expanded assist the Ministry and ensure that it portant for them to have a tho- ness, and a patience that no folly, In line with its transformation foreign policy? its establishment to cope with this will always be au fait and well rough understanding of their host no provocation, no blunders may exercise, I am confident that DFR growing dynamics including the prepared to face the challenges and country, covering wide aspects in- shake.” These personal qualities will become a premier think tank The Federation of Malaya became a Bilateral Affairs Department, Multi- dynamics of inter-state relations cluding its history, political sys- and professional attributes would on diplomacy and international re- member of the United Nations on 17 lateral Affairs Department, ASEAN and able to effectively deal with the tem, culture and prevalent tradi- enable a diplomat to master the lations in due course. We are only September 1957 and six years later Malaysia National Secretariat intricacies of global issues today. tion, government policies, eco- delicate dance of diplomacy. in our first year of moving towards as a nation, Malaysia took its seat at (AMNS), Department of Policy nomic policies and achievements that goal. the world’s august body on 17 Planning and Coordination, Depart- In preparation for this, IDFR has, as well as its perspective on issues 4. To add value to the institute’s September 1963. There has not ment of Maritime Affairs, Protocol since the first quarter of 2017, en- of international concern. Our diplo- programmes, IDFR frequently We also need to respond to the been any dramatic shift in the and Consular Division, South East gaged research officers of varying mats should reach out to establish collaborates with think tanks, Fourth Industrial Revolution and fundamental principles of our Asia Regional Centre for Counter academic background to under- diverse contacts and build relation- universities and non-government equip the young diplomats with foreign policy ever since then. We Terrorism (SEARCCT), National take research work in various key ships with as many people as pos- organisations. Can you share with the necessary knowledge in order adopt an independent and princi- Authority for Chemical Weapons current issues of direct relevance sible, especially with those in the our readers who IDFR is in colla- to embrace the opportunities and pled position in our international Convention, Legal Division, Integrity and pertinence to the Ministry. We circle of influence. Once they are boration with at the moment and challenges that come with its relations posture, uphold the sanc- Unit, Department of Management are on the right track despite some accepted and have wide access to in what areas? advent. The exponential progress tity of international law and treaties Services, and IDFR. challenging constraints of softwares the corridors of power in diverse of technology – in ICT, Nuclear, to which we subscribe to, staying and hardwares. It is still early days sectors of interest, maintaining the Presently IDFR has a joint colla- Chemical, Space, Ocean Space, away from interfering in the internal 2. As the Ministry’s training arm, how and these challenges should not line of communication open could boration with Universiti Kebang- Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, affairs of other countries and main- can IDFR’s role be enhanced to distract us from producing our own facilitate them to function effecti- saan Malaysia (UKM) on a Master etc – necessitates efforts to close taining friendly relations with all contribute further to the formula- in-house subject matter experts vely. of Social Science in Strategy and the gap of understanding and countries. The above notwithstan- tion and implementation of Malay- and play an advisory role to the Diplomacy, which is already in its enhance the working relations ding, our foreign policy is not cast in sia’s foreign policy? Ministry. A diplomat is also his country’s 19th year and has produced more between diplomats, scientists and stone. It evolves with time and the eyes and ears. He is on the ground than 200 graduates. The pro- industries to maximise the benefits dynamics of geopolitics around the Since its inception in 1991, IDFR 3. You have served the Ministry and should therefore have a better gramme uniquely blends acade- and mitigate potential disruptions world. We cooperate closely with has played a leading role in equip- for more than 28 years. In your feel of issues to report back accu- mic perspective and practitio- to society. other members of the United ping our diplomats with the ne- opinion, what are some of the rately, objectively and timely for ners’ input. IDFR looks forward ------Nations on global issues which are cessary skills to better serve our key traits in becoming a skilled the Ministry to take appropriate to signing a Memorandum of Un- Prior to his appointment as the Director multifaceted and increasingly com- country abroad and contribute and well-rounded Malaysian dip- policy actions. Hence, the diplomat derstanding with Universiti Tek- General on 2 February 2017, Datuk plex. Cognizant of the fact that meaningfully in the process of en- lomat? is duty bound to continuously en- nologi MARA (UiTM) and Univer- Mohamad Sadik was Malaysia’s Am- states are no longer the exclusive suring a more peaceful and secu- gage the host country and strive siti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) soon, bassador to Hungary (2014-2017). He determinants of global peace and red world order. We regularly revise The intricacies of diplomacy are to improve and move the relation- and is presently exploring possible was also former Ambassador to the security, Malaysia also engages our training curriculum and course difficult to gauge, hence there is no ship forward. areas of collaboration with Uni- Islamic Republic of Iran (2009-2014) with non-state actors. Malaysia contents to suit the contemporary single recipe to becoming a versiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). and Consul General to New York acknowledges these dynamics and needs of our diplomatic engage- successful diplomat. More so a Other traits include having a keen (2004-2008). He also served in various gladly cooperates with stakehol- ment and foreign relations. Over diplomat’s roles and responsibilities interest to travel and explore the IDFR is also collaborating with capacities as a Malaysian diplomat to ders in the international and regional the years, IDFR has made great vary greatly. However there are length and breadth of the host local think tanks including the Ins- Australia and the Republic of Ghana. fora towards addressing issues of stride and for this, merits should fundamental qualities that a diplo- country. A diplomat should also titute of Strategic and Interna- At the Ministry, Datuk Mohamad Sadik mutual concern for a better world. go to my predecessors and col- mat should possess in order to behave with great humility, hones- tional Studies (ISIS Malaysia), also previously served as Undersecre- Malaysia plays a proactive role in leagues at the Ministry for their execute his mission effectively. The ty, and sensitivity to the local Asian Strategy and Leadership Ins- tary for the Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, ensuring a peaceful and progressive invaluable contributions in charting primary mission of our diplomats is, customs and traditions at all times. titute (ASLI), Maritime Institute of Vietnam and Oceania Division, Principal region with close engagement with the roadmap and setting the high after all, to promote and advance He must never cross the red line Malaysia (MIMA), and National Assistant Secretary for the Europe our neighbours in ASEAN. Our standards. Malaysia’s national interests and and interfere in the internal affairs Institute of Public Administration Division and Senior Assistant Secretary constructive participation in various government policies abroad. of his host country. It is an accep- (INTAN). We also cooperate with for the Policy and Planning Division, international organisations such as In 2016, IDFR embarked on a new ted norm that a diplomat must be several Foreign Service Institutes among others. the Organisation of Islamic Coope- journey to becoming a premier It is a package of all the know- prepared to sacrifice his personal around the world, the latest being ration (OIC), Non-Aligned Move- training and research institution in ledge and skills including leader- goal for the sake of his country’s Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute for ment (NAM), East Asia Summit diplomacy and international rela- ship, integrity, cross-cultural appre- interests. At the same time, he Diplomatic Studies. The Honourable (EAS), Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) tions. It is currently still in the early ciation, positive attitude, public must be prepared to NOT take Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dato’ Sri and in the United Nations (UN) in phase of its transformation exer- diplomacy, international relations, credit for any of the work that he Anifah Aman has recently signed dealing with contemporary issues cise as it endeavours to become soft skills diplomacy and negotia- had successfully discharged. As a Memorandum of Understanding of international concerns including a think tank that will not only conti- tion skills, among others. the saying goes – “Diplomacy is with his counterpart from the counter-terrorism, illegal migration, nue to serve as the training ground often the quiet partner in any nego- State of Qatar, in the field of ethnic cleansing, climate change, for our young diplomats but also It is pertinent for our diplomats to tiation.” training of diplomats.

2 [email protected]

PROFILE OF PROMINENT PERSON

DIPLOMATIC VOICE 3

FORUM

Brexit – a Clock Ticking in Malaysia Christian Häberli (PhD)

An earthquake nobody wanted countries. And even fewer bothered with only 27 members, while the 28th will the Commission find a lot of time Second, the EU-27 and the UK have tion process will not be a simple to consider that not only the UK but is out. for a Malaysian Prime Minister asking informed the rest of the world that they matter of arithmetics. On 23 June 2016, 51.9% of Great also the remaining EU will have to how his exports to the EU-27 might be intend to restructure their so-called Britain voters opted to leave the Euro- redefine their economic and other Meanwhile, the Chief negotiator for legally secured. “Schedules of commitments and So far so (un)clear. But where is the pean Union (EU). Many people could relations with the rest of the world. the European Commission, Michel concessions” in a way reflecting the beef? In particular, who quantifies, not believe it, some still don’t. Actually, Barnier, seems to be leaning back What’s up? recent trade flows of, respectively, the regulates, and divides the present many Britons admitted to not even North Americans banked on their and waiting for proposals, and money, EU-27 and the UK. So far so bad: the EU-28 import quotas between these knowing what the name “European privileged relationship with Her Majes- from London, before he gets ready About the only ascertained fact is United States, New Zealand and many two parties? To give just one example, Union” stands for. But the “remainers” ty’s Government, calmly waiting for a to talk about post-Brexit market that on B-Day – give or take a couple other countries immediately reacted the EU-28 has a zero-tariff TRQ of cried, and rallied under blue and Free Trade Agreement to come their access. At the top of his concerns of days (or years…) – the EU Single by saying such a static way of dividing almost 300,000 tons of sheep meat – a golden colours, suddenly remembe- way in a silver wrapping. Politicians in are EU citizens residing in the UK, the Market for the circulation of goods, – some would say secluding – market big quantity considering the still big ring their passion for a united Europe. the four European countries too rich to border between Ireland and Northern services, capital and labour will split access would preempt their rights in price differences between the world At the same time, “brexiteers” had a want to join the European Union Ireland, and the “alimonies” he into two: “EU-27” and “UK.” Two an unacceptable and WTO-incompati- market and the EU internal market. field day, inviting their Polish plumbers quickly gave up their hope to see the demands from Her Majesty’s Govern- “divorcees” instead of one Single ble way. What is to be made of such a Different countries have different and neighbours to return to Poland the UK coming back to the European Free ment. This focus on divorce pro- Market will not stop attracting trade divergence of the legal interpretation sub-quantities in that TRQ, and ano- next day. Trade Association (EFTA) which it had ceedings has so far prevented talks and investment and job-seekers – but of WTO Rules? ther part of the same TRQ is open for initiated in 1960 as its then largest about the future relationship between what does that mean for Malaysia’s all, or all other countries. The tariff The trading and investing world trem- member by far. the “divorcees”. economic and other interests in a Third, what is clear is that Britain’s for shipments outside this TRQ is bled. The British Pound and the stock split Europe, where it hitherto had a historic GATT Schedule, the one in much higher. And even the trade markets both took a dive, but then As for developing countries and And third countries and markets Common Market to benefit from (and vigour before it joined the EU in Janu- statistics are unclear, because for recovered from the first shock. Never- former colonies, several countries in stand by, knowing only that this to contend with)? ary 1973 is out of date. Probably the many shipments the UK is only a theless, analysts of market fundamen- the Global South put their trust in their relationship will affect all of them. The same goes for an EU reduced by transit and not the final destination (or tals, and governments, got really historic ties to one or the other Euro- Financial Times counted up to 759 Do we then all depend on the good perhaps a tenth of its market and GDP vice-versa). The same goes for sugar, nervous: what is going to happen to pean country, be it as a member of the international agreements, spanning will of the “divorcees” to continue tra- (depending on the way you account butter and many other products. our exports to a newly divided Euro- Commonwealth or the Francophonie. 168 non-EU countries, which the UK ding with outsiders? Or is there a for indirect trade and revenues, and pean market? These ties are enshrined in the Coto- would no longer belong to upon White Knight ensuring Malaysia’s mar- forecasts). Anyway, to simply copy the And there are other issues. Can ships nou Convention or another preferential leaving the EU. ket access rights and coming to the EU-28 schedule by adjusting some with Malaysian cargo still access all After the first shock, optimists trade agreement ensuring their market rescue of all third country traders – figures will not work for a number of European ports without problems: prevailed. access. The Côte d’Ivoire Trade Minis- …what about Malaysia? perhaps the multilateral trading specific issues such as “tariff rate first, Europe’s seventh biggest con- ter feared a weakened Pound and a system of the World Trade Organiza- quotas” (TRQ) for certain agricultural tainer Port of Felixstowe, and then A surprising number of pundits secluded commodity exchange in Perhaps unsurprisingly, Malaysia tion (WTO)? products, for farm subsidy ceilings, for the biggest one in Rotterdam, or vice- expressed the opinion that a traditio- London would curtail his country’s appears to remain silent on the issue. services and more. On the assumption versa? What about landing rights for nally trade-friendly country like the cocoa export earnings. Few, if any declarations, media and What about the WTO? that it wants to remain a WTO Malaysia Airlines in different Euro- United Kingdom (UK) would maintain academia-expressed official or other Member, the UK will therefore need to pean countries? And what will be their borders at least as open as the But nobody called to reassure them. opinions hit the headlines. This raises A few things are clear. First, after propose its own new schedule reflec- the status of Malaysian financial EU-28 does, and certainly not become Indeed: put simply, the EU cannot the question whether anybody looked Brexit, the UK automatically regains ting its offers for tariff concessions and services companies operating from Dato’hostage to farmDr. and Mohd. other parochial Yusof commit forAhmad the UK, and the UK has no at the trade figures, or at Malaysia’s its status as a WTO Member on its other commitments towards all other their London headquarters throughout IDFR’sinterests. Some Distinguished even thought that Fellow the time and for them. Former Director Generalinvestments on either side of the own. It continues to be bound, as WTO Members under Articles II, XXIV Europe? UK would be open for biotech pro- Channel? Or is the alleged “policy before and after its EU accession, by and XXVIII of the General Agreement ducts, apply supplier-friendlier sani- While the clock is ticking… inertia” which makes slipping into a the general GATT rules of non-dis- on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). According Malaysia’s Trade with the EU-28 tary and phytosanitary standards than TPP-11 without the USA appear as a crimination. Great Britain will have to the rules, and unless (any) other the Brussels-based bureaucrats, and The UK political parties, and public convenient easiest option?1 the same benefits, in terms of market Member objects to that proposal, the To answer such questions and which would welcome foreign investors even opinion, remain deeply divided on access rules for its exports world- Director General will then certify (i.e. of them matters most for Malaysia, a more than before Brexit. Global the issue, and often unable to even Whatever the reason, or the forum, wide, as WTO founding member validate) the new schedule of the close look at the recent trade figures is shippers trusted the free-trading spirit respond to clarification demands some exploratory talks, based on a Malaysia. But Malaysia would do well United Kingdom. necessary. In 2016, the UK was Ma- of Great Britain to offer them a Singa- from Brussels. Nevertheless, ignoring precise assessment of Malaysia’s to carefully analyse its specific WTO laysia’s 17th largest exports destina- pore-like free port – including for their pleas even from her own party, on economic priorities, would seem to be rights for its exports of goods and The same goes for the EU-27. tion, but only the third among its Euro- goods in transit to the European 29 March 2017, the British Prime in order. Such an assessment should services to the two markets resulting pean export markets. In the same year, continent. Minister Theresa May informed the not focus exclusively on trade surplus- from the divorce. Because while In practical terms this implies, first, a Malaysia’s five main export items to European Commission of her Govern- es with either behemoth. For the time Britain and the EU-27 remain bound splitting of the EU-28 schedule in two the UK were Electrical and Electronic And the pessimists had their say too: ment’s intention to leave the EU, being, given the busy negotiating by the same WTO rules, almost parts and, secondly, a separate Products, Transport Equipment, Wood both a “hard” and a “soft” Brexit would based on Article 50 of the EU Treaty. schedules in London and Brussels – nothing is clear with respect to their process of submission and certifica- Products, Machinery, Appliances and harm everybody, come at a high cost On that day the clock really started to and Prime Minister May’s focus on market access concessions and tion of two new schedules in the WTO. Parts, and Rubber Products. As for to the British taxpayer, and paralyse tick, because it means that on Friday, Britain’s interests in the USA – it is conditions; except for the very ge- What seems clear from the violent agricultural products, particularly the curtailed European Union for 29 March 2019 and unless reversed by anyway unlikely that Malaysia’s neral principle that this split must not reactions of countries fearing market- tropical fruits, Malaysia’s exports are years. But very few analysts consi- a qualified majority in the European post-Brexit trade interests in Britain reduce present market access rights access losses in either the UK or the continuously growing. In 2015, the dered the issue as it arises for third Council, the EU will continue to exist figures high up on her agenda. Neither of the world at large. EU-27 is that this schedule certifica- export value of Malaysian fruits to

4 [email protected]

FORUM

An earthquake nobody wanted countries. And even fewer bothered with only 27 members, while the 28th will the Commission find a lot of time Second, the EU-27 and the UK have tion process will not be a simple to consider that not only the UK but is out. for a Malaysian Prime Minister asking informed the rest of the world that they matter of arithmetics. On 23 June 2016, 51.9% of Great also the remaining EU will have to how his exports to the EU-27 might be intend to restructure their so-called Britain voters opted to leave the Euro- redefine their economic and other Meanwhile, the Chief negotiator for legally secured. “Schedules of commitments and So far so (un)clear. But where is the pean Union (EU). Many people could relations with the rest of the world. the European Commission, Michel concessions” in a way reflecting the beef? In particular, who quantifies, not believe it, some still don’t. Actually, Barnier, seems to be leaning back What’s up? recent trade flows of, respectively, the regulates, and divides the present many Britons admitted to not even North Americans banked on their and waiting for proposals, and money, EU-27 and the UK. So far so bad: the EU-28 import quotas between these knowing what the name “European privileged relationship with Her Majes- from London, before he gets ready About the only ascertained fact is United States, New Zealand and many two parties? To give just one example, Union” stands for. But the “remainers” ty’s Government, calmly waiting for a to talk about post-Brexit market that on B-Day – give or take a couple other countries immediately reacted the EU-28 has a zero-tariff TRQ of cried, and rallied under blue and Free Trade Agreement to come their access. At the top of his concerns of days (or years…) – the EU Single by saying such a static way of dividing almost 300,000 tons of sheep meat – a golden colours, suddenly remembe- way in a silver wrapping. Politicians in are EU citizens residing in the UK, the Market for the circulation of goods, – some would say secluding – market big quantity considering the still big ring their passion for a united Europe. the four European countries too rich to border between Ireland and Northern services, capital and labour will split access would preempt their rights in price differences between the world At the same time, “brexiteers” had a want to join the European Union Ireland, and the “alimonies” he into two: “EU-27” and “UK.” Two an unacceptable and WTO-incompati- market and the EU internal market. field day, inviting their Polish plumbers quickly gave up their hope to see the demands from Her Majesty’s Govern- “divorcees” instead of one Single ble way. What is to be made of such a Different countries have different and neighbours to return to Poland the UK coming back to the European Free ment. This focus on divorce pro- Market will not stop attracting trade divergence of the legal interpretation sub-quantities in that TRQ, and ano- next day. Trade Association (EFTA) which it had ceedings has so far prevented talks and investment and job-seekers – but of WTO Rules? ther part of the same TRQ is open for initiated in 1960 as its then largest about the future relationship between what does that mean for Malaysia’s all, or all other countries. The tariff The trading and investing world trem- member by far. the “divorcees”. economic and other interests in a Third, what is clear is that Britain’s for shipments outside this TRQ is bled. The British Pound and the stock split Europe, where it hitherto had a historic GATT Schedule, the one in much higher. And even the trade markets both took a dive, but then As for developing countries and And third countries and markets Common Market to benefit from (and vigour before it joined the EU in Janu- statistics are unclear, because for recovered from the first shock. Never- former colonies, several countries in stand by, knowing only that this to contend with)? ary 1973 is out of date. Probably the many shipments the UK is only a theless, analysts of market fundamen- the Global South put their trust in their relationship will affect all of them. The same goes for an EU reduced by transit and not the final destination (or tals, and governments, got really historic ties to one or the other Euro- Financial Times counted up to 759 Do we then all depend on the good perhaps a tenth of its market and GDP vice-versa). The same goes for sugar, nervous: what is going to happen to pean country, be it as a member of the international agreements, spanning will of the “divorcees” to continue tra- (depending on the way you account butter and many other products. our exports to a newly divided Euro- Commonwealth or the Francophonie. 168 non-EU countries, which the UK ding with outsiders? Or is there a for indirect trade and revenues, and pean market? These ties are enshrined in the Coto- would no longer belong to upon White Knight ensuring Malaysia’s mar- forecasts). Anyway, to simply copy the And there are other issues. Can ships nou Convention or another preferential leaving the EU. ket access rights and coming to the EU-28 schedule by adjusting some with Malaysian cargo still access all After the first shock, optimists trade agreement ensuring their market rescue of all third country traders – figures will not work for a number of European ports without problems: prevailed. access. The Côte d’Ivoire Trade Minis- …what about Malaysia? perhaps the multilateral trading specific issues such as “tariff rate first, Europe’s seventh biggest con- ter feared a weakened Pound and a system of the World Trade Organiza- quotas” (TRQ) for certain agricultural tainer Port of Felixstowe, and then A surprising number of pundits secluded commodity exchange in Perhaps unsurprisingly, Malaysia tion (WTO)? products, for farm subsidy ceilings, for the biggest one in Rotterdam, or vice- expressed the opinion that a traditio- London would curtail his country’s appears to remain silent on the issue. services and more. On the assumption versa? What about landing rights for nally trade-friendly country like the cocoa export earnings. Few, if any declarations, media and What about the WTO? that it wants to remain a WTO Malaysia Airlines in different Euro- United Kingdom (UK) would maintain academia-expressed official or other Member, the UK will therefore need to pean countries? And what will be their borders at least as open as the But nobody called to reassure them. opinions hit the headlines. This raises A few things are clear. First, after propose its own new schedule reflec- the status of Malaysian financial EU-28 does, and certainly not become Indeed: put simply, the EU cannot the question whether anybody looked Brexit, the UK automatically regains ting its offers for tariff concessions and services companies operating from hostage to farm and other parochial commit for the UK, and the UK has no at the trade figures, or at Malaysia’s its status as a WTO Member on its other commitments towards all other their London headquarters throughout interests. Some even thought that the time for them. investments on either side of the own. It continues to be bound, as WTO Members under Articles II, XXIV Europe? UK would be open for biotech pro- Channel? Or is the alleged “policy before and after its EU accession, by and XXVIII of the General Agreement ducts, apply supplier-friendlier sani- While the clock is ticking… inertia” which makes slipping into a the general GATT rules of non-dis- on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). According Malaysia’s Trade with the EU-28 tary and phytosanitary standards than TPP-11 without the USA appear as a crimination. Great Britain will have to the rules, and unless (any) other the Brussels-based bureaucrats, and The UK political parties, and public convenient easiest option?1 the same benefits, in terms of market Member objects to that proposal, the To answer such questions and which would welcome foreign investors even opinion, remain deeply divided on access rules for its exports world- Director General will then certify (i.e. of them matters most for Malaysia, a more than before Brexit. Global the issue, and often unable to even Whatever the reason, or the forum, wide, as WTO founding member validate) the new schedule of the close look at the recent trade figures is shippers trusted the free-trading spirit respond to clarification demands some exploratory talks, based on a Malaysia. But Malaysia would do well United Kingdom. necessary. In 2016, the UK was Ma- of Great Britain to offer them a Singa- from Brussels. Nevertheless, ignoring precise assessment of Malaysia’s to carefully analyse its specific WTO laysia’s 17th largest exports destina- pore-like free port – including for their pleas even from her own party, on economic priorities, would seem to be rights for its exports of goods and The same goes for the EU-27. tion, but only the third among its Euro- goods in transit to the European 29 March 2017, the British Prime in order. Such an assessment should services to the two markets resulting pean export markets. In the same year, continent. Minister Theresa May informed the not focus exclusively on trade surplus- from the divorce. Because while In practical terms this implies, first, a Malaysia’s five main export items to European Commission of her Govern- es with either behemoth. For the time Britain and the EU-27 remain bound splitting of the EU-28 schedule in two the UK were Electrical and Electronic And the pessimists had their say too: ment’s intention to leave the EU, being, given the busy negotiating by the same WTO rules, almost parts and, secondly, a separate Products, Transport Equipment, Wood both a “hard” and a “soft” Brexit would based on Article 50 of the EU Treaty. schedules in London and Brussels – nothing is clear with respect to their process of submission and certifica- Products, Machinery, Appliances and harm everybody, come at a high cost On that day the clock really started to and Prime Minister May’s focus on market access concessions and tion of two new schedules in the WTO. Parts, and Rubber Products. As for to the British taxpayer, and paralyse tick, because it means that on Friday, Britain’s interests in the USA – it is conditions; except for the very ge- What seems clear from the violent agricultural products, particularly the curtailed European Union for 29 March 2019 and unless reversed by anyway unlikely that Malaysia’s neral principle that this split must not reactions of countries fearing market- tropical fruits, Malaysia’s exports are years. But very few analysts consi- a qualified majority in the European post-Brexit trade interests in Britain reduce present market access rights access losses in either the UK or the continuously growing. In 2015, the dered the issue as it arises for third Council, the EU will continue to exist figures high up on her agenda. Neither of the world at large. EU-27 is that this schedule certifica- export value of Malaysian fruits to

DIPLOMATIC VOICE 5

An earthquake nobody wanted countries. And even fewer bothered with only 27 members, while the 28th will the Commission find a lot of time Second, the EU-27 and the UK have tion process will not be a simple to consider that not only the UK but is out. for a Malaysian Prime Minister asking informed the rest of the world that they matter of arithmetics. On 23 June 2016, 51.9% of Great also the remaining EU will have to how his exports to the EU-27 might be intend to restructure their so-called Britain voters opted to leave the Euro- redefine their economic and other Meanwhile, the Chief negotiator for legally secured. “Schedules of commitments and So far so (un)clear. But where is the pean Union (EU). Many people could relations with the rest of the world. the European Commission, Michel concessions” in a way reflecting the beef? In particular, who quantifies, not believe it, some still don’t. Actually, Barnier, seems to be leaning back What’s up? recent trade flows of, respectively, the regulates, and divides the present many Britons admitted to not even North Americans banked on their and waiting for proposals, and money, EU-27 and the UK. So far so bad: the EU-28 import quotas between these knowing what the name “European privileged relationship with Her Majes- from London, before he gets ready About the only ascertained fact is United States, New Zealand and many two parties? To give just one example, Union” stands for. But the “remainers” ty’s Government, calmly waiting for a to talk about post-Brexit market that on B-Day – give or take a couple other countries immediately reacted the EU-28 has a zero-tariff TRQ of cried, and rallied under blue and Free Trade Agreement to come their access. At the top of his concerns of days (or years…) – the EU Single by saying such a static way of dividing almost 300,000 tons of sheep meat – a golden colours, suddenly remembe- way in a silver wrapping. Politicians in are EU citizens residing in the UK, the Market for the circulation of goods, – some would say secluding – market big quantity considering the still big ring their passion for a united Europe. the four European countries too rich to border between Ireland and Northern services, capital and labour will split access would preempt their rights in price differences between the world At the same time, “brexiteers” had a want to join the European Union Ireland, and the “alimonies” he into two: “EU-27” and “UK.” Two an unacceptable and WTO-incompati- market and the EU internal market. field day, inviting their Polish plumbers quickly gave up their hope to see the demands from Her Majesty’s Govern- “divorcees” instead of one Single ble way. What is to be made of such a Different countries have different and neighbours to return to Poland the UK coming back to the European Free ment. This focus on divorce pro- Market will not stop attracting trade divergence of the legal interpretation sub-quantities in that TRQ, and ano- next day. Trade Association (EFTA) which it had ceedings has so far prevented talks and investment and job-seekers – but of WTO Rules? ther part of the same TRQ is open for initiated in 1960 as its then largest about the future relationship between what does that mean for Malaysia’s all, or all other countries. The tariff The trading and investing world trem- member by far. the “divorcees”. economic and other interests in a Third, what is clear is that Britain’s for shipments outside this TRQ is bled. The British Pound and the stock split Europe, where it hitherto had a historic GATT Schedule, the one in much higher. And even the trade markets both took a dive, but then As for developing countries and And third countries and markets Common Market to benefit from (and vigour before it joined the EU in Janu- statistics are unclear, because for recovered from the first shock. Never- former colonies, several countries in stand by, knowing only that this to contend with)? ary 1973 is out of date. Probably the many shipments the UK is only a theless, analysts of market fundamen- the Global South put their trust in their relationship will affect all of them. The same goes for an EU reduced by transit and not the final destination (or tals, and governments, got really historic ties to one or the other Euro- Financial Times counted up to 759 Do we then all depend on the good perhaps a tenth of its market and GDP vice-versa). The same goes for sugar, nervous: what is going to happen to pean country, be it as a member of the international agreements, spanning will of the “divorcees” to continue tra- (depending on the way you account butter and many other products. our exports to a newly divided Euro- Commonwealth or the Francophonie. 168 non-EU countries, which the UK ding with outsiders? Or is there a for indirect trade and revenues, and pean market? These ties are enshrined in the Coto- would no longer belong to upon White Knight ensuring Malaysia’s mar- forecasts). Anyway, to simply copy the And there are other issues. Can ships nou Convention or another preferential leaving the EU. ket access rights and coming to the EU-28 schedule by adjusting some with Malaysian cargo still access all After the first shock, optimists trade agreement ensuring their market rescue of all third country traders – figures will not work for a number of European ports without problems: prevailed. access. The Côte d’Ivoire Trade Minis- …what about Malaysia? perhaps the multilateral trading specific issues such as “tariff rate first, Europe’s seventh biggest con- ter feared a weakened Pound and a system of the World Trade Organiza- quotas” (TRQ) for certain agricultural tainer Port of Felixstowe, and then A surprising number of pundits secluded commodity exchange in Perhaps unsurprisingly, Malaysia tion (WTO)? products, for farm subsidy ceilings, for the biggest one in Rotterdam, or vice- expressed the opinion that a traditio- London would curtail his country’s appears to remain silent on the issue. services and more. On the assumption versa? What about landing rights for nally trade-friendly country like the cocoa export earnings. Few, if any declarations, media and What about the WTO? that it wants to remain a WTO Malaysia Airlines in different Euro- United Kingdom (UK) would maintain academia-expressed official or other Member, the UK will therefore need to pean countries? And what will be their borders at least as open as the But nobody called to reassure them. opinions hit the headlines. This raises A few things are clear. First, after propose its own new schedule reflec- the status of Malaysian financial EU-28 does, and certainly not become Indeed: put simply, the EU cannot the question whether anybody looked Brexit, the UK automatically regains ting its offers for tariff concessions and services companies operating from hostage to farm and other parochial commit for the UK, and the UK has no at the trade figures, or at Malaysia’s its status as a WTO Member on its other commitments towards all other their London headquarters throughout interests. Some even thought that the time for them. investments on either side of the own. It continues to be bound, as WTO Members under Articles II, XXIV Europe? UK would be open for biotech pro- Channel? Or is the alleged “policy before and after its EU accession, by and XXVIII of the General Agreement ducts, apply supplier-friendlier sani- While the clock is ticking… inertia” which makes slipping into a the general GATT rules of non-dis- on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). According Malaysia’s Trade with the EU-28 tary and phytosanitary standards than TPP-11 without the USA appear as a crimination. Great Britain will have to the rules, and unless (any) other the Brussels-based bureaucrats, and The UK political parties, and public convenient easiest option?1 the same benefits, in terms of market Member objects to that proposal, the To answer such questions and which would welcome foreign investors even opinion, remain deeply divided on access rules for its exports world- Director General will then certify (i.e. of them matters most for Malaysia, a more than before Brexit. Global the issue, and often unable to even Whatever the reason, or the forum, wide, as WTO founding member validate) the new schedule of the close look at the recent trade figures is shippers trusted the free-trading spirit respond to clarification demands some exploratory talks, based on a Malaysia. But Malaysia would do well United Kingdom. necessary. In 2016, the UK was Ma- of Great Britain to offer them a Singa- from Brussels. Nevertheless, ignoring precise assessment of Malaysia’s to carefully analyse its specific WTO laysia’s 17th largest exports destina- pore-like free port – including for their pleas even from her own party, on economic priorities, would seem to be rights for its exports of goods and The same goes for the EU-27. tion, but only the third among its Euro- goods in transit to the European 29 March 2017, the British Prime in order. Such an assessment should services to the two markets resulting pean export markets. In the same year, continent. Minister Theresa May informed the not focus exclusively on trade surplus- from the divorce. Because while In practical terms this implies, first, a Malaysia’s five main export items to European Commission of her Govern- es with either behemoth. For the time Britain and the EU-27 remain bound splitting of the EU-28 schedule in two the UK were Electrical and Electronic And the pessimists had their say too: ment’s intention to leave the EU, being, given the busy negotiating by the same WTO rules, almost parts and, secondly, a separate Products, Transport Equipment, Wood both a “hard” and a “soft” Brexit would based on Article 50 of the EU Treaty. schedules in London and Brussels – nothing is clear with respect to their process of submission and certifica- Products, Machinery, Appliances and harm everybody, come at a high cost On that day the clock really started to and Prime Minister May’s focus on market access concessions and tion of two new schedules in the WTO. Parts, and Rubber Products. As for to the British taxpayer, and paralyse tick, because it means that on Friday, Britain’s interests in the USA – it is conditions; except for the very ge- What seems clear from the violent agricultural products, particularly the curtailed European Union for 29 March 2019 and unless reversed by anyway unlikely that Malaysia’s neral principle that this split must not reactions of countries fearing market- tropical fruits, Malaysia’s exports are years. But very few analysts consi- a qualified majority in the European post-Brexit trade interests in Britain reduce present market access rights access losses in either the UK or the continuously growing. In 2015, the dered the issue as it arises for third Council, the EU will continue to exist figures high up on her agenda. Neither of the world at large. EU-27 is that this schedule certifica- export value of Malaysian fruits to

FORUM

Europe stood at RM43.41 million, the extent of data availability): What seem to ignore the French diplomatic compared to RM41.38 million the about, say, sugar imported for refi- adage “gouverner c’est prévoir” (to previous year.2 ning in the UK and then consumed in govern is to anticipate). Introduction ple of ethnic cleansing” that is unfold- Many international leaders have the UK or in the EU-27? ing in Myanmar. However, even though voiced their opinion and critics My suggestion, hence, is for Malaysia Further Reading The Rohingya people are a minority the term “ethnic cleansing” has also towards the lack of action taken by the to start doing its homework by All these are rather technical issues Global Trade and Customs Journal Nr. 12 group living in the western coastal been used in resolutions of the Secu- United Nations and Myanmar in splitting Malaysia’s main exports to with a considerable economic back- Issue 3 (March 2017)3 – examples: state of Rakhine in Myanmar, and the rity Council and the General Assem- handling the crisis. Donald Trump, the the EU over the last three available ground, environmental labour and Lorand Bartels, The UK’s WTO Schedules, majority of them are Muslims. Even bly, it has not been recognised as an US president has also urged the U.N. years into UK and EU-27 final destina- social implications. Some pundits pp. 83–86 though they have lived in the country independent crime under international Security council to take a strong and tions, based on Malaysian customs gather that a stand-alone UK will Christian Häberli, Brexit without WTO- for centuries, they have never been law. swift action in seeking a long term Problems – for UK and for EU and for declarations and EU import statistics. accept production, or imports, of Global Business? pp. 87-91 recognised as citizens by the Myan- diplomatic solution towards the centu- A second set of data should reflect genetically modified products like mar Government, and hence, are Many perished along the way during ry historic tragedy. Bangladesh, who services trade in its different main oilseeds, or of hormone-treated beef Holger Hestermeyer & Federico Ortino, UK rendered stateless. After the military the exodus, and many of those who has been helping the Rohingya categories, and Malaysia’s invest- and dairy cows; others are scep- Trade Policy Post-Brexit: The Beginning of coup in 1962, this group of people arrived at the Bay of Bengal were bad- people, has urged the Myanmar go- ments in UK and EU-27. Very interes- tical, arguing UK will revert to its a Complex Journey. King’s College London started facing systematic discrimina- ly wounded and were also in hunger. vernment to create safe zones that will Dickson Poon School of Law, Legal Studies ting leads for Malaysian priorities historic islander aloofness. The ques- 4 Research Paper Series: Paper No. 2017-04 tion by the government. This article The sudden mass exodus has led to protect the Rohingya people with the could be observed in a compilation of tion here is what will be Malaysia’s ------provides a general overview of the overstretched border camps, and in- United Nations monitoring them. its exports to UK and EU-27 as a position? What if US chlorine-treated current situation regarding the plight of sufficient food and medical supplies. Endnotes percentage of all Malaysian exports, chicken flood the UK market but the Rohingya people, and details Hence, there was an urgent and imme- Malaysia’s Actions and a description of the transit trade cannot be imported into continental 1Cf. Malaysia Eyes TPP-11, But on Its Terms. some of Malaysia’s actions in the diate need for humanitarian aid. flows. Europe? By Shankaran Nambiar, Senior Research international arena thus far. Malaysia too has been very outspoken Fellow, Malaysian Institute of Economic The World Reacts on this crisis. Earlier this year, at the Research (MIER) in East Asia Forum dated 10 Homework What Happened in August of 2017? Looking at these data and at the main October 2017 (https://aecnewstoday.com Extraordinary Session of the OIC export markets and products, some /2017/malaysia-eyes-tpp-11-but-on- The United Nations Secretary-Gene- Council of Foreign Ministers on the Si- important further questions may be This and other examples amply show its-terms/#ixzz4-v8ggIIuL) Based on various reports, the on- ral, António Guterres along with seve- tuation of the Rohingya Muslim Mino- expected. that conditions of competition will going crisis in the Rakhine state ral world leaders have been appea- rity in Myanmar on 19 January 2017, 2https://m.malaysiakini.com/news/361925 change with Brexit. As this might also worsened when a small group of ling for Nobel Prize Winner, Aung San Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Mohd. Najib #kFeDTZizJdieyfux.99 First, palm oil: will the UK apply the affect Malaysia’s interests, a careful the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army Suu Kyi and Myanmar’s security Tun Abdul Razak cautioned OIC EU decision to ban palm oil in bio- analysis of the issues, and of Malay- 3Available on 10 October 2017 at http:// (ARSA), a so-called militant group, forces to end the senseless actions member states of the vulnerability of fuels as of 2020? If it does not, can sia’s legal rights, and strategic www.kluwerlawonline.com/toc.php?area=- staged coordinated attacks on go- in the Rakhine state. Hundreds of the Rohingya crisis and the possibi- UK fossil fuel enriched with palm oil options, would seem to be warranted Journals&mode=bypub&level=5&values vernment forces on 25 August. In thousands of innocent lives were lity of terrorist organisations infiltrating =Journals~~Global+Trade+and+Customs+ enter the EU-27 market? If it cannot, – the sooner, the better! retaliation, the government forces, callously disregarded. To make mat- the Rakhine crisis for their own cause. Journal~Volume+12+%282017%29 what would be the outcome of a legal backed by the local Buddhist militia ters worse, the curtailment which At the Informal ASEAN Foreign Minis- challenge contemplated by Malaysia Given that such an exercise involves a 4Available on 10 October 2017 at https:// mob, attacked civilians and burnt blocks international humanitarian aid ters’ Meeting (IAMM) in New York on (and Indonesia) under WTO rules large number of line agencies, an initial ssrn.com/abstract=2861488 down their homes, forcing those who to Rakhine as enforced by Aung San 23 September 2017 to discuss the prohibiting discrimination without a overview – by the Ministry of Interna------survived to seek refuge from neigh- Suu Kyi’s government has further Humanitarian Situation in the Rakhine scientific base? And, what is the tional Trade and Industry, and the Christian Häberli (PhD) is Fellow at the bouring countries. risked the lives of the Rohingya peo- State, an ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ impact on investments in Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – could World Trade Institute, Bern University ple towards precipice of humanita- Statement was not issued due to dif- oil palm plantations? then be used for an Action Plan invol- (Switzerland) and IDFR’s Visiting Fellow. Since the military crackdown took rian catastrophe. Filippo Grandi, the fering views on the matter. Philippines, ving all concerned line agencies, The views expressed in this article are place, more than 700,000 Rohingyas United Nations High Commissioner as Chair of ASEAN, however, issued Second, European import quotas stakeholders, and of course Malay- entirely the writer’s own. have fled in a mass exodus to the for Refugees addressed this crisis as an ASEAN Chairman’s statement on (TRQ): the above-described lamb TRQ sia’s Embassies and High Commis- neighbouring state of Bangladesh in “the most urgent refugees’ emergency the same day. Malaysia had informed is imported mainly from Australia and sions in Europe and in Washington, order to escape the “textbook exam- in the world”. Philippines and the other Member New Zealand. To redefine country not to forget its WTO Delegation in quotas under the provisions of Geneva. Academics should offer their GATT-Article XXIV:6 and XXVIII is support in what are sometimes already a hotly-disputed item on the extremely technical issues, both legal agenda of trade lawyers and in the and economic. British Parliament. Trade data on re-exports to the EU-27 are not avail- Malaysian diplomacy is doing a great able, simply because a product enters job in defending the country’s interest the EU-28 only once. Does Malaysia in all relevant international fora. have any products falling under EU Human resource constraints are unde- TRQ’s with country allocations niably an issue. But looking at the (GATT-Article XIII)? world’s second biggest market break- ing apart, not to act on the Brexit file Third, UK as a transit destination (to under a Malaysian perspective would

6 [email protected]

States that it had decided to disasso- concerned with the safety, security the resources to handle the Rohingya crisis. ciate itself from the statement for it is and wellbeing of the Rohingya peo- Al Jazeera. Retrieved from http://www.alja- zeera.com/news/2017/09/lack-resources- a misinterpretation of the reality of the ple, and stands firm against the in- handle-rohingya-crisis-170908165634486. situation, it was not based on consen- justice done to them. Malaysia will html sus, and it also failed to capture Ma- continue to urge the Myanmar Go- Fong, F. (9 September 2017). Humanitarian laysia’s concerns. This decision was vernment to end the violence, and will mission: Aid to reach Rohingya today. The also reflected in a Press Release is- also continue to emphasise the need New Straits Times. Retrieved from https:// sued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the international community to put www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2017/09/ on 24 September 2017, in response to pressure on Myanmar to cease hos- 277953/humanitarian-mission-aid-reach- rohingya-today the ASEAN Chairman’s statement. tilities against the Rohingyas. Nokman, F.S. and Mior, A. (17 October 2017). In the above ASEAN meeting, Malay- In his speech at the OIC meeting, Local Rohingya community applauds M'sia's sia had urged the Myanmar Govern- Prime Minister Najib Razak had also move to build hospital in Cox's Bazar. The New Straits Times. Retrieved from https:// ment to end the violence and to allow urged Myanmar to heed the words of www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2017/10/ immediate humanitarian aid to be de- General Aung San which was deli- 292071/local-rohingya-community-applauds- livered to the Rakhine State. To that vered in 1946: msias-move-build-hospital-coxs-bazar end, Prime Minister Najib Razak had The Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (2017). announced during the opening of the “Nowadays, all the world over, we Statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, OIC Extraordinary Session that Malay- cannot confine the definition of a Dato’ Sri Anifah Aman in response to the sia will contribute RM10 million to as- nationality to the narrow bounds Asean Chariman’s statement on the humani- sist in humanitarian efforts and social of race, religion and others. tarian situation in the Rakhine state. [Press Release]. Retrieved from http://www.kln. rehabilitation projects in Rakhine. Ma- Nations are extending their rights gov.my/web/guest/press-release/-/asset_- laysia had also sent humanitarian mis- of their respective communities publisher/FCk0/content/statement-by-the sion to Yangon, Myanmar and Cox’s even to others who may not -minister-of-foreign-affairs-dato%E2%80 Bazar, Bangladesh on 13 February belong to them, except by their 99-sri-anifah-aman-in-response-to-the- 2017, and dispatched another huma- mere residence amongst them, asean-chairman%E2%80%99s-statement-on-the-humanitarian-situation-in-the- nitarian mission to Chittagong, Bang- and their determination to live rakhine-state?redirect=%2Fweb%2Fguest ladesh on 9 September 2017. Fol- and be with them…” %2Fpress-release lowing the visit of Deputy Prime Minis- Razak, N. (January 2017). PM OIC Speech on ter Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi Malaysia commends the Govern- Rohingya. Retrieved from http://www.pmo. to Cox’s Bazaar on 16 October, it was ment of Bangladesh for doing their gov.my/home.php?menu=speech&page announced that Malaysia plans to utmost in receiving more than 700,000 =1676&news_id=812&speech_cat=2 build a RM3.5 million field hospital at a Rohingya refugees to date, which Reuters. (20 September 2017). Trump urges suitable location near the refugee certainly puts a strain on any country. 'strong and swift' U.N. action to end Rohingya camp. Malaysia also plans to assign a In the spirit of compassion and hu- crisis. Reuters. Retrieved from htpp://www. humanitarian and welfare attaché to manity, Malaysia calls on the interna- reuters.com/article/us-myanmar-rohing- be based in Bangladesh to fulfill the tional community to support the hu- ya/trump-urges-strong-and-swift-u-n-action -to-end-rohingya-crisis-idUSKCN1BV0CD government's commitment in helping manitarian efforts in Bangladesh. The Star. (16 October 2017). Malaysia to build Rohingya ethnic refugees currently ------sheltered at refugee camps in the field hospital at Rohingya refugee camp in References Bangladesh. Retrieved from http://www. country. The hospital is expected to thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/10/16/ start its operations by 1 December Amnesty International. (4 September 2017). Myanmar: Restrictions on international aid malaysia-to-build-field-hospital-at-rohingya 2017. More recently, while speaking putting thousands at risk. Retrieved from refugee-camp-in-bangladesh/ at the 17th Session of the D-8 Council http://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/ United Nations Office on Genocide Preven- of Ministers in Istanbul, Foreign 2017/09/myanmar-restrictions-on-interna- tion and the Responsibility to Protect. Ethnic Minister Dato’ Sri Anifah Aman called tional-aid-putting- thousands-at-risk/ Cleansing. Retrieved from http://www.un- on the D-8 to assist the Rohingya Babulal, V. (5 November 2017). M'sia's field .org/en/genocideprevention/ethnic-clean- people in any possible way, and to hospital for Rohingya refugees begins sing.html address the community’s socioeco- operations on Dec 1. The New Straits Times. ------Retrieved from https://www.nst.com.my/ Sivaranjini Anbalagan is a final-year nomic plight. These are just some of news/nation/2017/11/299571/msias-field- the actions that have been taken by hospital-rohingya-refugees-begins-opera- student from Universiti Utara Malaysia Malaysia thus far. tions-dec-1 and is currently interning at IDFR. Noraini BBC News. (19 September 2017). Myanmar: Nong is a Research Officer at IDFR. Conclusion What sparked latest violence in Rakhine? BBC News. Retrieved from http://www.bbc. The Foreign Minister has reiterated com/news/world-asia- 41082689 that the Malaysian Government is Edroos, F. (9 September 2017). UN: We lack

An earthquake nobody wanted countries. And even fewer bothered with only 27 members, while the 28th will the Commission find a lot of time Second, the EU-27 and the UK have tion process will not be a simple to consider that not only the UK but is out. for a Malaysian Prime Minister asking informed the rest of the world that they matter of arithmetics. On 23 June 2016, 51.9% of Great also the remaining EU will have to how his exports to the EU-27 might be intend to restructure their so-called Britain voters opted to leave the Euro- redefine their economic and other Meanwhile, the Chief negotiator for legally secured. “Schedules of commitments and So far so (un)clear. But where is the pean Union (EU). Many people could relations with the rest of the world. the European Commission, Michel concessions” in a way reflecting the beef? In particular, who quantifies, not believe it, some still don’t. Actually, Barnier, seems to be leaning back What’s up? recent trade flows of, respectively, the regulates, and divides the present many Britons admitted to not even North Americans banked on their and waiting for proposals, and money, EU-27 and the UK. So far so bad: the EU-28 import quotas between these knowing what the name “European privileged relationship with Her Majes- from London, before he gets ready About the only ascertained fact is United States, New Zealand and many two parties? To give just one example, Union” stands for. But the “remainers” ty’s Government, calmly waiting for a to talk about post-Brexit market that on B-Day – give or take a couple other countries immediately reacted the EU-28 has a zero-tariff TRQ of cried, and rallied under blue and Free Trade Agreement to come their access. At the top of his concerns of days (or years…) – the EU Single by saying such a static way of dividing almost 300,000 tons of sheep meat – a golden colours, suddenly remembe- way in a silver wrapping. Politicians in are EU citizens residing in the UK, the Market for the circulation of goods, – some would say secluding – market big quantity considering the still big ring their passion for a united Europe. the four European countries too rich to border between Ireland and Northern services, capital and labour will split access would preempt their rights in price differences between the world At the same time, “brexiteers” had a want to join the European Union Ireland, and the “alimonies” he into two: “EU-27” and “UK.” Two an unacceptable and WTO-incompati- market and the EU internal market. field day, inviting their Polish plumbers quickly gave up their hope to see the demands from Her Majesty’s Govern- “divorcees” instead of one Single ble way. What is to be made of such a Different countries have different and neighbours to return to Poland the UK coming back to the European Free ment. This focus on divorce pro- Market will not stop attracting trade divergence of the legal interpretation sub-quantities in that TRQ, and ano- next day. Trade Association (EFTA) which it had ceedings has so far prevented talks and investment and job-seekers – but of WTO Rules? ther part of the same TRQ is open for initiated in 1960 as its then largest about the future relationship between what does that mean for Malaysia’s all, or all other countries. The tariff The trading and investing world trem- member by far. the “divorcees”. economic and other interests in a Third, what is clear is that Britain’s for shipments outside this TRQ is bled. The British Pound and the stock split Europe, where it hitherto had a historic GATT Schedule, the one in much higher. And even the trade markets both took a dive, but then As for developing countries and And third countries and markets Common Market to benefit from (and vigour before it joined the EU in Janu- statistics are unclear, because for recovered from the first shock. Never- former colonies, several countries in stand by, knowing only that this to contend with)? ary 1973 is out of date. Probably the many shipments the UK is only a theless, analysts of market fundamen- the Global South put their trust in their relationship will affect all of them. The same goes for an EU reduced by transit and not the final destination (or tals, and governments, got really historic ties to one or the other Euro- Financial Times counted up to 759 Do we then all depend on the good perhaps a tenth of its market and GDP vice-versa). The same goes for sugar, nervous: what is going to happen to pean country, be it as a member of the international agreements, spanning will of the “divorcees” to continue tra- (depending on the way you account butter and many other products. our exports to a newly divided Euro- Commonwealth or the Francophonie. 168 non-EU countries, which the UK ding with outsiders? Or is there a for indirect trade and revenues, and pean market? These ties are enshrined in the Coto- would no longer belong to upon White Knight ensuring Malaysia’s mar- forecasts). Anyway, to simply copy the And there are other issues. Can ships nou Convention or another preferential leaving the EU. ket access rights and coming to the EU-28 schedule by adjusting some with Malaysian cargo still access all After the first shock, optimists trade agreement ensuring their market rescue of all third country traders – figures will not work for a number of European ports without problems: prevailed. access. The Côte d’Ivoire Trade Minis- …what about Malaysia? perhaps the multilateral trading specific issues such as “tariff rate first, Europe’s seventh biggest con- ter feared a weakened Pound and a system of the World Trade Organiza- quotas” (TRQ) for certain agricultural tainer Port of Felixstowe, and then A surprising number of pundits secluded commodity exchange in Perhaps unsurprisingly, Malaysia tion (WTO)? products, for farm subsidy ceilings, for the biggest one in Rotterdam, or vice- expressed the opinion that a traditio- London would curtail his country’s appears to remain silent on the issue. services and more. On the assumption versa? What about landing rights for nally trade-friendly country like the cocoa export earnings. Few, if any declarations, media and What about the WTO? that it wants to remain a WTO Malaysia Airlines in different Euro- United Kingdom (UK) would maintain academia-expressed official or other Member, the UK will therefore need to pean countries? And what will be their borders at least as open as the But nobody called to reassure them. opinions hit the headlines. This raises A few things are clear. First, after propose its own new schedule reflec- the status of Malaysian financial EU-28 does, and certainly not become Indeed: put simply, the EU cannot the question whether anybody looked Brexit, the UK automatically regains ting its offers for tariff concessions and services companies operating from hostage to farm and other parochial commit for the UK, and the UK has no at the trade figures, or at Malaysia’s its status as a WTO Member on its other commitments towards all other their London headquarters throughout interests. Some even thought that the time for them. investments on either side of the own. It continues to be bound, as WTO Members under Articles II, XXIV Europe? UK would be open for biotech pro- Channel? Or is the alleged “policy before and after its EU accession, by and XXVIII of the General Agreement ducts, apply supplier-friendlier sani- While the clock is ticking… inertia” which makes slipping into a the general GATT rules of non-dis- on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). According Malaysia’s Trade with the EU-28 tary and phytosanitary standards than TPP-11 without the USA appear as a crimination. Great Britain will have to the rules, and unless (any) other the Brussels-based bureaucrats, and The UK political parties, and public convenient easiest option?1 the same benefits, in terms of market Member objects to that proposal, the To answer such questions and which would welcome foreign investors even opinion, remain deeply divided on access rules for its exports world- Director General will then certify (i.e. of them matters most for Malaysia, a more than before Brexit. Global the issue, and often unable to even Whatever the reason, or the forum, wide, as WTO founding member validate) the new schedule of the close look at the recent trade figures is shippers trusted the free-trading spirit respond to clarification demands some exploratory talks, based on a Malaysia. But Malaysia would do well United Kingdom. necessary. In 2016, the UK was Ma- of Great Britain to offer them a Singa- from Brussels. Nevertheless, ignoring precise assessment of Malaysia’s to carefully analyse its specific WTO laysia’s 17th largest exports destina- pore-like free port – including for their pleas even from her own party, on economic priorities, would seem to be rights for its exports of goods and The same goes for the EU-27. tion, but only the third among its Euro- goods in transit to the European 29 March 2017, the British Prime in order. Such an assessment should services to the two markets resulting pean export markets. In the same year, continent. Minister Theresa May informed the not focus exclusively on trade surplus- from the divorce. Because while In practical terms this implies, first, a Malaysia’s five main export items to European Commission of her Govern- es with either behemoth. For the time Britain and the EU-27 remain bound splitting of the EU-28 schedule in two the UK were Electrical and Electronic And the pessimists had their say too: ment’s intention to leave the EU, being, given the busy negotiating by the same WTO rules, almost parts and, secondly, a separate Products, Transport Equipment, Wood both a “hard” and a “soft” Brexit would based on Article 50 of the EU Treaty. schedules in London and Brussels – nothing is clear with respect to their process of submission and certifica- Products, Machinery, Appliances and harm everybody, come at a high cost On that day the clock really started to and Prime Minister May’s focus on market access concessions and tion of two new schedules in the WTO. Parts, and Rubber Products. As for to the British taxpayer, and paralyse tick, because it means that on Friday, Britain’s interests in the USA – it is conditions; except for the very ge- What seems clear from the violent agricultural products, particularly the curtailed European Union for 29 March 2019 and unless reversed by anyway unlikely that Malaysia’s neral principle that this split must not reactions of countries fearing market- tropical fruits, Malaysia’s exports are years. But very few analysts consi- a qualified majority in the European post-Brexit trade interests in Britain reduce present market access rights access losses in either the UK or the continuously growing. In 2015, the dered the issue as it arises for third Council, the EU will continue to exist figures high up on her agenda. Neither of the world at large. EU-27 is that this schedule certifica- export value of Malaysian fruits to

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The Plight of the Rohingya People and Malaysia’s Actions in Condemning the Crisis and Alleviating their Suffering Europe stood at RM43.41 million, the extent of data availability): What seem to ignore the French diplomatic Sivaranjini Anbalagan and Noraini Nong compared to RM41.38 million the about, say, sugar imported for refi- adage “gouverner c’est prévoir” (to previous year.2 ning in the UK and then consumed in govern is to anticipate). Introduction ple of ethnic cleansing” that is unfold- Many international leaders have the UK or in the EU-27? ing in Myanmar. However, even though voiced their opinion and critics My suggestion, hence, is for Malaysia Further Reading The Rohingya people are a minority the term “ethnic cleansing” has also towards the lack of action taken by the to start doing its homework by All these are rather technical issues Global Trade and Customs Journal Nr. 12 group living in the western coastal been used in resolutions of the Secu- United Nations and Myanmar in splitting Malaysia’s main exports to with a considerable economic back- Issue 3 (March 2017)3 – examples: state of Rakhine in Myanmar, and the rity Council and the General Assem- handling the crisis. Donald Trump, the the EU over the last three available ground, environmental labour and Lorand Bartels, The UK’s WTO Schedules, majority of them are Muslims. Even bly, it has not been recognised as an US president has also urged the U.N. years into UK and EU-27 final destina- social implications. Some pundits pp. 83–86 though they have lived in the country independent crime under international Security council to take a strong and tions, based on Malaysian customs gather that a stand-alone UK will Christian Häberli, Brexit without WTO- for centuries, they have never been law. swift action in seeking a long term Problems – for UK and for EU and for declarations and EU import statistics. accept production, or imports, of Global Business? pp. 87-91 recognised as citizens by the Myan- diplomatic solution towards the centu- A second set of data should reflect genetically modified products like mar Government, and hence, are Many perished along the way during ry historic tragedy. Bangladesh, who services trade in its different main oilseeds, or of hormone-treated beef Holger Hestermeyer & Federico Ortino, UK rendered stateless. After the military the exodus, and many of those who has been helping the Rohingya categories, and Malaysia’s invest- and dairy cows; others are scep- Trade Policy Post-Brexit: The Beginning of coup in 1962, this group of people arrived at the Bay of Bengal were bad- people, has urged the Myanmar go- ments in UK and EU-27. Very interes- tical, arguing UK will revert to its a Complex Journey. King’s College London started facing systematic discrimina- ly wounded and were also in hunger. vernment to create safe zones that will Dickson Poon School of Law, Legal Studies ting leads for Malaysian priorities historic islander aloofness. The ques- 4 Research Paper Series: Paper No. 2017-04 tion by the government. This article The sudden mass exodus has led to protect the Rohingya people with the could be observed in a compilation of tion here is what will be Malaysia’s ------provides a general overview of the overstretched border camps, and in- United Nations monitoring them. its exports to UK and EU-27 as a position? What if US chlorine-treated current situation regarding the plight of sufficient food and medical supplies. Endnotes percentage of all Malaysian exports, chicken flood the UK market but the Rohingya people, and details Hence, there was an urgent and imme- Malaysia’s Actions and a description of the transit trade cannot be imported into continental 1Cf. Malaysia Eyes TPP-11, But on Its Terms. some of Malaysia’s actions in the diate need for humanitarian aid. flows. Europe? By Shankaran Nambiar, Senior Research international arena thus far. Malaysia too has been very outspoken Fellow, Malaysian Institute of Economic The World Reacts on this crisis. Earlier this year, at the Research (MIER) in East Asia Forum dated 10 Homework What Happened in August of 2017? Looking at these data and at the main October 2017 (https://aecnewstoday.com Extraordinary Session of the OIC export markets and products, some /2017/malaysia-eyes-tpp-11-but-on- The United Nations Secretary-Gene- Council of Foreign Ministers on the Si- important further questions may be This and other examples amply show its-terms/#ixzz4-v8ggIIuL) Based on various reports, the on- ral, António Guterres along with seve- tuation of the Rohingya Muslim Mino- expected. that conditions of competition will going crisis in the Rakhine state ral world leaders have been appea- rity in Myanmar on 19 January 2017, 2https://m.malaysiakini.com/news/361925 change with Brexit. As this might also worsened when a small group of ling for Nobel Prize Winner, Aung San Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Mohd. Najib #kFeDTZizJdieyfux.99 First, palm oil: will the UK apply the affect Malaysia’s interests, a careful the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army Suu Kyi and Myanmar’s security Tun Abdul Razak cautioned OIC EU decision to ban palm oil in bio- analysis of the issues, and of Malay- 3Available on 10 October 2017 at http:// (ARSA), a so-called militant group, forces to end the senseless actions member states of the vulnerability of fuels as of 2020? If it does not, can sia’s legal rights, and strategic www.kluwerlawonline.com/toc.php?area=- staged coordinated attacks on go- in the Rakhine state. Hundreds of the Rohingya crisis and the possibi- UK fossil fuel enriched with palm oil options, would seem to be warranted Journals&mode=bypub&level=5&values vernment forces on 25 August. In thousands of innocent lives were lity of terrorist organisations infiltrating =Journals~~Global+Trade+and+Customs+ enter the EU-27 market? If it cannot, – the sooner, the better! retaliation, the government forces, callously disregarded. To make mat- the Rakhine crisis for their own cause. Journal~Volume+12+%282017%29 what would be the outcome of a legal backed by the local Buddhist militia ters worse, the curtailment which At the Informal ASEAN Foreign Minis- challenge contemplated by Malaysia Given that such an exercise involves a 4Available on 10 October 2017 at https:// mob, attacked civilians and burnt blocks international humanitarian aid ters’ Meeting (IAMM) in New York on (and Indonesia) under WTO rules large number of line agencies, an initial ssrn.com/abstract=2861488 down their homes, forcing those who to Rakhine as enforced by Aung San 23 September 2017 to discuss the prohibiting discrimination without a overview – by the Ministry of Interna------survived to seek refuge from neigh- Suu Kyi’s government has further Humanitarian Situation in the Rakhine scientific base? And, what is the tional Trade and Industry, and the Christian Häberli (PhD) is Fellow at the bouring countries. risked the lives of the Rohingya peo- State, an ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ impact on investments in Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – could World Trade Institute, Bern University ple towards precipice of humanita- Statement was not issued due to dif- oil palm plantations? then be used for an Action Plan invol- (Switzerland) and IDFR’s Visiting Fellow. Since the military crackdown took rian catastrophe. Filippo Grandi, the fering views on the matter. Philippines, ving all concerned line agencies, The views expressed in this article are place, more than 700,000 Rohingyas United Nations High Commissioner as Chair of ASEAN, however, issued Second, European import quotas stakeholders, and of course Malay- entirely the writer’s own. have fled in a mass exodus to the for Refugees addressed this crisis as an ASEAN Chairman’s statement on (TRQ): the above-described lamb TRQ sia’s Embassies and High Commis- neighbouring state of Bangladesh in “the most urgent refugees’ emergency the same day. Malaysia had informed is imported mainly from Australia and sions in Europe and in Washington, order to escape the “textbook exam- in the world”. Philippines and the other Member New Zealand. To redefine country not to forget its WTO Delegation in quotas under the provisions of Geneva. Academics should offer their GATT-Article XXIV:6 and XXVIII is support in what are sometimes already a hotly-disputed item on the extremely technical issues, both legal agenda of trade lawyers and in the and economic. British Parliament. Trade data on re-exports to the EU-27 are not avail- Malaysian diplomacy is doing a great able, simply because a product enters job in defending the country’s interest the EU-28 only once. Does Malaysia in all relevant international fora. have any products falling under EU Human resource constraints are unde- TRQ’s with country allocations niably an issue. But looking at the (GATT-Article XIII)? world’s second biggest market break- ing apart, not to act on the Brexit file Third, UK as a transit destination (to under a Malaysian perspective would Credit: BERNAMA Images

DIPLOMATIC VOICE 7

Introduction ple of ethnic cleansing” that is unfold- Many international leaders have ing in Myanmar. However, even though voiced their opinion and critics The Rohingya people are a minority the term “ethnic cleansing” has also towards the lack of action taken by the group living in the western coastal been used in resolutions of the Secu- United Nations and Myanmar in state of Rakhine in Myanmar, and the rity Council and the General Assem- handling the crisis. Donald Trump, the majority of them are Muslims. Even bly, it has not been recognised as an US president has also urged the U.N. though they have lived in the country independent crime under international Security council to take a strong and for centuries, they have never been law. swift action in seeking a long term recognised as citizens by the Myan- diplomatic solution towards the centu- mar Government, and hence, are Many perished along the way during ry historic tragedy. Bangladesh, who rendered stateless. After the military the exodus, and many of those who has been helping the Rohingya coup in 1962, this group of people arrived at the Bay of Bengal were bad- people, has urged the Myanmar go- started facing systematic discrimina- ly wounded and were also in hunger. vernment to create safe zones that will tion by the government. This article The sudden mass exodus has led to protect the Rohingya people with the provides a general overview of the overstretched border camps, and in- United Nations monitoring them. current situation regarding the plight of sufficient food and medical supplies. the Rohingya people, and details Hence, there was an urgent and imme- Malaysia’s Actions some of Malaysia’s actions in the diate need for humanitarian aid. international arena thus far. Malaysia too has been very outspoken The World Reacts on this crisis. Earlier this year, at the What Happened in August of 2017? Extraordinary Session of the OIC The United Nations Secretary-Gene- Council of Foreign Ministers on the Si- Based on various reports, the on- ral, António Guterres along with seve- tuation of the Rohingya Muslim Mino- going crisis in the Rakhine state ral world leaders have been appea- rity in Myanmar on 19 January 2017, worsened when a small group of ling for Nobel Prize Winner, Aung San Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Mohd. Najib the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army Suu Kyi and Myanmar’s security Tun Abdul Razak cautioned OIC (ARSA), a so-called militant group, forces to end the senseless actions member states of the vulnerability of staged coordinated attacks on go- in the Rakhine state. Hundreds of the Rohingya crisis and the possibi- vernment forces on 25 August. In thousands of innocent lives were lity of terrorist organisations infiltrating retaliation, the government forces, callously disregarded. To make mat- the Rakhine crisis for their own cause. backed by the local Buddhist militia ters worse, the curtailment which At the Informal ASEAN Foreign Minis- mob, attacked civilians and burnt blocks international humanitarian aid ters’ Meeting (IAMM) in New York on down their homes, forcing those who to Rakhine as enforced by Aung San 23 September 2017 to discuss the survived to seek refuge from neigh- Suu Kyi’s government has further Humanitarian Situation in the Rakhine bouring countries. risked the lives of the Rohingya peo- State, an ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ ple towards precipice of humanita- Statement was not issued due to dif- Since the military crackdown took rian catastrophe. Filippo Grandi, the fering views on the matter. Philippines, place, more than 700,000 Rohingyas United Nations High Commissioner as Chair of ASEAN, however, issued have fled in a mass exodus to the for Refugees addressed this crisis as an ASEAN Chairman’s statement on neighbouring state of Bangladesh in “the most urgent refugees’ emergency the same day. Malaysia had informed order to escape the “textbook exam- in the world”. Philippines and the other Member

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ASEAN Charter: Time for Review? Tan Sri Dato’ Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak

8 [email protected]

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Memorandum of Understanding with the State of Qatar

States that it had decided to disasso- concerned with the safety, security the resources to handle the Rohingya crisis. Razak and the Emir Shah, Undersecretary of the West Asia ciate itself from the statement for it is and wellbeing of the Rohingya peo- Al Jazeera. Retrieved from http://www.alja- of Qatar Sheikh Division; Datuk Mohamad Sadik Keth- zeera.com/news/2017/09/lack-resources- a misinterpretation of the reality of the ple, and stands firm against the in- Tamim bin Hamad ergany, the Director General of IDFR; handle-rohingya-crisis-170908165634486. situation, it was not based on consen- justice done to them. Malaysia will html Al-Thani in con- and Puan Barathi Muniyandi, IDFR's sus, and it also failed to capture Ma- continue to urge the Myanmar Go- junction with the Head of Corporate Affairs Section. Fong, F. (9 September 2017). Humanitarian laysia’s concerns. This decision was vernment to end the violence, and will Emir’s two-day mission: Aid to reach Rohingya today. The also reflected in a Press Release is- also continue to emphasise the need New Straits Times. Retrieved from https:// state visit to Malay- Four Memorandums of Understanding sued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the international community to put www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2017/09/ sia. Foreign Minis- were signed in total at the ceremony on 24 September 2017, in response to pressure on Myanmar to cease hos- 277953/humanitarian-mission-aid-reach- ter Dato' Sri Anifah held in Putrajaya. The other three were rohingya-today the ASEAN Chairman’s statement. tilities against the Rohingyas. Aman represented on higher education; legal coopera- Nokman, F.S. and Mior, A. (17 October 2017). Malaysia in the tion; and judicial cooperation. The In the above ASEAN meeting, Malay- In his speech at the OIC meeting, Local Rohingya community applauds M'sia's signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in the sia had urged the Myanmar Govern- Prime Minister Najib Razak had also move to build hospital in Cox's Bazar. The above Memoran- field of training of diplomats will New Straits Times. Retrieved from https:// ment to end the violence and to allow urged Myanmar to heed the words of dum of Under- include, among others, cooperation in www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2017/10/ immediate humanitarian aid to be de- General Aung San which was deli- 292071/local-rohingya-community-applauds- standing, while the areas of the exchange of informa- livered to the Rakhine State. To that vered in 1946: msias-move-build-hospital-coxs-bazar The Government of Malaysia recently Qatar was represented by its Foreign tion on the structure and content of end, Prime Minister Najib Razak had training programmes for diplomats; The Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (2017). signed a Memorandum of Under- Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin announced during the opening of the “Nowadays, all the world over, we Statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, standing with the State of Qatar in the Abdulrahman Al-Thani. Other Ministry the identification of experts in mutually OIC Extraordinary Session that Malay- cannot confine the definition of a Dato’ Sri Anifah Aman in response to the field of training of diplomats. The of Foreign Affairs' officials who were at agreed areas; the exchange of infor- sia will contribute RM10 million to as- nationality to the narrow bounds Asean Chariman’s statement on the humani- signing ceremony, held on 16 October the ceremony include Dato' Seri mation on the use of Information Tech- sist in humanitarian efforts and social of race, religion and others. tarian situation in the Rakhine state. [Press 2017, was witnessed by Prime Minis- Ramlan Ibrahim, the Secretary Gene- nology in diplomacy; and joint Release]. Retrieved from http://www.kln. rehabilitation projects in Rakhine. Ma- Nations are extending their rights research in mutually agreed areas. gov.my/web/guest/press-release/-/asset_- ter Dato’ Seri Mohd. Najib Tun Abdul ral; YM Dato’ Raja Reza Raja Zaib laysia had also sent humanitarian mis- of their respective communities publisher/FCk0/content/statement-by-the sion to Yangon, Myanmar and Cox’s even to others who may not -minister-of-foreign-affairs-dato%E2%80 Bazar, Bangladesh on 13 February belong to them, except by their 99-sri-anifah-aman-in-response-to-the- Cultural Diplomacy Lecture Series 2/2017 2017, and dispatched another huma- mere residence amongst them, asean-chairman%E2%80%99s-statement-on-the-humanitarian-situation-in-the- nitarian mission to Chittagong, Bang- and their determination to live rakhine-state?redirect=%2Fweb%2Fguest ladesh on 9 September 2017. Fol- and be with them…” %2Fpress-release IDFR recently held its second lecture communities. The first lowing the visit of Deputy Prime Minis- for the year under its Cultural Diploma- and subsequent events Razak, N. (January 2017). PM OIC Speech on ter Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi Malaysia commends the Govern- cy Lecture Series. The lecture, titled were held in London, Rohingya. Retrieved from http://www.pmo. to Cox’s Bazaar on 16 October, it was ment of Bangladesh for doing their gov.my/home.php?menu=speech&page Promoting Malaysia’s Cultural Diplo- and in recent years, in announced that Malaysia plans to utmost in receiving more than 700,000 =1676&news_id=812&speech_cat=2 macy, was delivered by Dato’ Seri Istanbul, Paris and build a RM3.5 million field hospital at a Rohingya refugees to date, which Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, Minister then Baku. Malaysia Reuters. (20 September 2017). Trump urges suitable location near the refugee certainly puts a strain on any country. 'strong and swift' U.N. action to end Rohingya of Tourism and Culture on 12 October also participates in camp. Malaysia also plans to assign a In the spirit of compassion and hu- crisis. Reuters. Retrieved from htpp://www. 2017. world tourism exposi- humanitarian and welfare attaché to manity, Malaysia calls on the interna- reuters.com/article/us-myanmar-rohing- tions such as the Inter- be based in Bangladesh to fulfill the tional community to support the hu- ya/trump-urges-strong-and-swift-u-n-action In his lecture, Dato’ Seri Mohamed nationale Tourismus- -to-end-rohingya-crisis-idUSKCN1BV0CD government's commitment in helping manitarian efforts in Bangladesh. Nazri said that Malaysia’s National Börse Berlin, the The Star. (16 October 2017). Malaysia to build Rohingya ethnic refugees currently ------Culture Policy was formulated in 1971, world’s largest tourism sheltered at refugee camps in the field hospital at Rohingya refugee camp in and has set guidelines for designing, trade fair; World Travel References Bangladesh. Retrieved from http://www. country. The hospital is expected to formulating and sustaining Malaysia’s Mart in London; and the Amnesty International. (4 September 2017). thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/10/16/ start its operations by 1 December malaysia-to-build-field-hospital-at-rohingya national identity, which is one of mo- Festive Decorations Myanmar: Restrictions on international aid deration and inclusivity. He added that around the World 2017. More recently, while speaking putting thousands at risk. Retrieved from refugee-camp-in-bangladesh/ at the 17th Session of the D-8 Council thus far, Malaysia has signed 106 exhibition in Seoul, to promote and to culture towards strengthening natio- http://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/ United Nations Office on Genocide Preven- of Ministers in Istanbul, Foreign 2017/09/myanmar-restrictions-on-interna- tion and the Responsibility to Protect. Ethnic cultural agreements with, among further raise awareness about Malay- nal culture via joint research, develop- Minister Dato’ Sri Anifah Aman called tional-aid-putting- thousands-at-risk/ Cleansing. Retrieved from http://www.un- others, India, China, Japan, South sia’s cultural diversity. However, ment, education, and cultural expan- on the D-8 to assist the Rohingya Babulal, V. (5 November 2017). M'sia's field .org/en/genocideprevention/ethnic-clean- Korea, Russia and the ASEAN mem- Malaysia’s effort is not just focused sion and connections; enhancing and people in any possible way, and to hospital for Rohingya refugees begins sing.html ber states, and these agreements overseas. Locally, it also organises strengthening cultural leadership address the community’s socioeco- operations on Dec 1. The New Straits Times. ------have allowed Malaysia and the many cultural festivals, including through training and guidance to Retrieved from https://www.nst.com.my/ Sivaranjini Anbalagan is a final-year partners to officially pursue exchange Citrawarna; Iftar@KL; and Kuala interested individuals; supporting and nomic plight. These are just some of news/nation/2017/11/299571/msias-field- the actions that have been taken by hospital-rohingya-refugees-begins-opera- student from Universiti Utara Malaysia programmes, dance and musical Lumpur International Craft Festival. mobilizing culture as an effective Malaysia thus far. tions-dec-1 and is currently interning at IDFR. Noraini performances, and other related cul- engine of growth; establishing effec- BBC News. (19 September 2017). Myanmar: Nong is a Research Officer at IDFR. tural activities. Among the activities Moving forward, Dato’ Seri Mohamed tive communication to instill national Conclusion What sparked latest violence in Rakhine? organised was the Malaysia Culture Nazri said that the strategy and im- awareness and Malaysian nationa- BBC News. Retrieved from http://www.bbc. Week, an annual event that promotes plementation of Malaysia’s cultural lism; fulfilling socio-cultural needs; The Foreign Minister has reiterated com/news/world-asia- 41082689 and enhances awareness of Malay- diplomacy can be further enhanced by and improving the standard and that the Malaysian Government is Edroos, F. (9 September 2017). UN: We lack sia’s cultural diversity among foreign restoring, preserving and developing quality of the arts.

DIPLOMATIC VOICE 9

NEWS

Workshop on Intercultural Communication and Diplomacy

IDFR recently organised the allow women to vote. Hen- witnessing a historic shift of power that Australian companies that have are at a high point. Among others, Workshop on Intercultural ce, it is a country of va- in the region, and the regional organi- made the move to the region are Australia has extensive cooperation Communication and Diplo- lues such as quality and sation’s response to these challen- thriving and confident about their across ASEAN’s three pillars and macy. Held from 5 to 7 fairness, democracy, free- ges has the potential to shape ex- growth prospects. regular Ministerial and senior official September 2017, the main dom of speech, human rights pectations of acceptable strategic level dialogues in different sectors. objective of the workshop and open economies, strong behaviour and reinforce a culture The foundation for Australia’s strong Australia-ASEAN relations were up- was to raise the partici- belief in the rule of law and that respects international norms. ties with ASEAN is their long stan- graded to a Strategic Partnership in pants’ awareness on cultural security of the global com- ASEAN’s ability to speak as one also ding and extensive people-to-people 2014, and the following year, the diversity; enhance their un- mons in the multilateral sys- gives it greater influence on the links. These close personal ties have leaders committed to hold biennial derstanding on the intercon- tem. New Zealand is also global stage. The challenge for been forged through education and summits. nectedness between culture a diverse nation. In terms ASEAN is to sustain a more complex through Australia’s diaspora commu- and diplomacy; and provide of ethnicity, roughly two- future, which it is well placed to do nities. Ambassador Duke provided The Australia's Ambassador to ASEAN them with the exposure to the thirds of New Zealanders through forums such as the East Asia some figures to support this – nearly concluded her lecture by informing nuances of cross-cultural are Europeans, about 15 per Summit, the ASEAN Defence Minis- 20 per cent of all international the audience that Prime Minister communication. The focus of cent are Maori, about 12 per ters Meeting Plus, and the ASEAN students in Australia, over 100,000 Malcolm Turnbull has invited the ten this year’s workshop was cent are Asians, and six Regional Forum; all of which Australia students this year – come from ASEAN ASEAN leaders to the Special Summit, on cultural diplomacy within percent are from the Paci- is a member of. member states; over 1.3 million which aims to strengthen Australia’s the ASEAN context. fic. It is also a nation that Australian residents were born in partnership with ASEAN and generate is founded on bicultura- Ambassador Duke added that ASEAN ASEAN countries or have Southeast fresh momentum as ASEAN enters its The highlight of the three-day lism, where two distinct cul- is also very important to Australia’s Asian ancestry, and more than next 50 years. workshop was a lecture by His Tunku Abdul Rahman and Deputy tures coexist. economic prosperity. It is the country’s 115,000 Malaysian-born people live in Excellency John Subritzky, New Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Razak, third largest trading partner – account- Australia. Zealand High Commissioner to Ma- and at the end of his tenure, was Ambassador Subritzky added that this ing for approximately AUD$93 billion laysia on the topic of New Zealand’s bestowed the title of Tan Sri. The year, the High Commission will be in two-way trade – and a 2017 Austra- Ambassador Duke also emphasised Cultural Diplomacy. In his lecture, personal friendship and the people- focusing on the 60th anniversary of lian Business in ASEAN survey shows that Australia and ASEAN relations Ambassador Subritzky said that New to-people relationship with the highest New Zealand-Malaysia diplomatic Zealand has had a long history with level that he supported and built relations. The anniversary is an oppor- regards to cultural diplomacy. The was a great foundation for bilateral tunity for both countries to celebrate country’s first New Zealand High relationship. the past, reflect on what we have Commissioner to Malaysia was achieved together and look forward to Charles Bennett: a Maori leader, Ambassador Subritzky then gave an a vibrant partnership in the future. On 11 October 2017, the Diploma in higher manage- soldier, diplomat and statesman. In overview of New Zealand and its Diplomacy participants organised a ment and deci- Malaysia, Bennett established a very identity. New Zealand is one of the forum titled Empowering Women, sion-making posi- close friendship with Prime Minister very first countries in the world to Empowering Malaysia. Moderated by tions. This is a Mr. Norafizan Mustafa, President of representation of DID 2017, the panellists were Dato’ how Malaysia has Ismail Yahya, Former Mufti of Tereng- progressed in em- IDFR Lecture Series 2/2017 ganu and Former Chief Judge of powering women Syarie Court Terengganu; Associate at work. He also 2017. The lecture forward to the opportunity to dis- Professor Dr. Madeline Berma, Acade- acknowledged the titled ASEAN-Aus- cuss Australia’s relations with mician and Former Director of Tun challenges faced tralia Relationship ASEAN, and the country’s plans for Fatimah Institute for Women Leader- by women today. and the 2018 Spe- the 2018 ASEAN-Australia Special ship, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia; Datuk Mohamad cial Summit was Summit to be held in Sydney on 17 Ms. Abir Abdul Rahim, Co-Founder of Sadik explained delivered by Am- and 18 March. Lean in Malaysia, a women-led that in line with bassador Jane non-profit organisation; and Ms, the teachings of Islam, women are revolved around three main points: Duke, Australia's Australia became ASEANs first dia- Ajanis Anak Ba-I, Assistant Director of regarded highly in the society. None- self-value and self-worth; women Ambassador to logue partner in 1974. Australia’s Guidance and Counselling Division, theless, he was of the view that the empowerment; and societal expec- ASEAN. Prime Minister then, Gough Whitlam, Department of Women Development, empowering of women should be tations. described ASEAN as “unquestionably Ministry of Women, Family and Com- consistent with the empowering of In her interesting the most important, the most relevant, munity Development. men, children, families and ultimately, Dato’ Ismail Yahya, who was the first lecture, Ambassa- the most natural of the regional or- the entire society. He also mentioned panellist, quoted Surah Ar-Rum Verse dor Duke acknow- ganisations”, which Ambassador In his welcoming remarks, Datuk that it is important to ensure that 21 from the Holy Quran which ledged ASEAN’s Duke said still holds true today. Mohamad Sadik Kethergany, the nobody is left behind in the country’s highlights the importance of affection, importance to re- Director General of IDFR, highlighted development. love, tolerance and respect for each IDFR concluded its second IDFR gional peace, stability and prosperity, In terms of political security, Am- that 35 per cent of women in the other in our daily lives. He added that Lecture Series for 2017 on 19 October and added that she has been looking bassador Duke stated that we are Malaysian public sector are holding The panel discussion that followed empowerment is about understanding

10 [email protected]

our rights and responsibilities. Islam She is also smart and confident. How- by the Government to encourage encourages and promotes women ever, Dr. Berma stressed that the issue women to return to the work force empowerment, and women are of empowerment should also apply to after maternity leave. This includes the encouraged to know more about men. Both men and women must introduction of flexible working hours their rights. Dato’ Ismail said that know their rights and responsibilities. and the flexibility of working from couples entering matrimony must home. The Government also includes also learn and be more equipped The third panellist, Ms. Abir Abdul assistance for women in need in its with knowledge on their rights and Rahim, advocated the need for society yearly budget. Recently, the Govern- responsibilities. This is to ensure the to empower women to achieve their ment introduced the Komuniti Perwani sustainability of the family institution in full potential in their career and their 1Malaysia programme, another initia- Malaysia. life, without being judged. She said tive to empower women in Malaysia. that women today face tougher Associate Professor Dr. Madeline challenges in meeting societal expec- The panellists concluded that Malay- Berma stated that modern day’s tations. Ms. Abir shared the current sia can be a better country when we expectations towards women are situation in the corporate world, where empower women to participate ef- higher and much more complex than there is still an unequal playing field in fectively in society alongside men. before, when they were mostly judged the work force. Hence, more initiatives Empowering women is about provid- by their domestic skills. She added must be created to ensure equal ing equal opportunities to them in the that an empowered woman is des- opportunities for women at the work challenging world today. Hence, a cribed as having a vision, graceful, place. more conducive environment must be soft-hearted yet strong, and she must provided for them to make their own be respected for her mind and Ms. Ajanis Anak Ba-I explained that choices and to pursue their dreams in admired for her heart and her honesty. many initiatives have been undertaken life.

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witnessing a historic shift of power that Australian companies that have are at a high point. Among others, in the region, and the regional organi- made the move to the region are Australia has extensive cooperation sation’s response to these challen- thriving and confident about their across ASEAN’s three pillars and ges has the potential to shape ex- growth prospects. regular Ministerial and senior official pectations of acceptable strategic level dialogues in different sectors. behaviour and reinforce a culture The foundation for Australia’s strong Australia-ASEAN relations were up- that respects international norms. ties with ASEAN is their long stan- graded to a Strategic Partnership in ASEAN’s ability to speak as one also ding and extensive people-to-people 2014, and the following year, the gives it greater influence on the links. These close personal ties have leaders committed to hold biennial global stage. The challenge for been forged through education and summits. ASEAN is to sustain a more complex through Australia’s diaspora commu- future, which it is well placed to do nities. Ambassador Duke provided The Australia's Ambassador to ASEAN through forums such as the East Asia some figures to support this – nearly concluded her lecture by informing Summit, the ASEAN Defence Minis- 20 per cent of all international the audience that Prime Minister ters Meeting Plus, and the ASEAN students in Australia, over 100,000 Malcolm Turnbull has invited the ten Regional Forum; all of which Australia students this year – come from ASEAN ASEAN leaders to the Special Summit, is a member of. member states; over 1.3 million which aims to strengthen Australia’s Australian residents were born in partnership with ASEAN and generate Ambassador Duke added that ASEAN ASEAN countries or have Southeast fresh momentum as ASEAN enters its is also very important to Australia’s Asian ancestry, and more than next 50 years. economic prosperity. It is the country’s 115,000 Malaysian-born people live in third largest trading partner – account- Australia. ing for approximately AUD$93 billion in two-way trade – and a 2017 Austra- Ambassador Duke also emphasised lian Business in ASEAN survey shows that Australia and ASEAN relations

Forum: Empowering Women, Empowering Malaysia

On 11 October 2017, the Diploma in higher manage- Diplomacy participants organised a ment and deci- forum titled Empowering Women, sion-making posi- Empowering Malaysia. Moderated by tions. This is a Mr. Norafizan Mustafa, President of representation of DID 2017, the panellists were Dato’ how Malaysia has Ismail Yahya, Former Mufti of Tereng- progressed in em- ganu and Former Chief Judge of powering women Syarie Court Terengganu; Associate at work. He also 2017. The lecture forward to the opportunity to dis- Professor Dr. Madeline Berma, Acade- acknowledged the titled ASEAN-Aus- cuss Australia’s relations with mician and Former Director of Tun challenges faced tralia Relationship ASEAN, and the country’s plans for Fatimah Institute for Women Leader- by women today. and the 2018 Spe- the 2018 ASEAN-Australia Special ship, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia; Datuk Mohamad cial Summit was Summit to be held in Sydney on 17 Ms. Abir Abdul Rahim, Co-Founder of Sadik explained delivered by Am- and 18 March. Lean in Malaysia, a women-led that in line with bassador Jane non-profit organisation; and Ms, the teachings of Islam, women are revolved around three main points: Duke, Australia's Australia became ASEANs first dia- Ajanis Anak Ba-I, Assistant Director of regarded highly in the society. None- self-value and self-worth; women Ambassador to logue partner in 1974. Australia’s Guidance and Counselling Division, theless, he was of the view that the empowerment; and societal expec- ASEAN. Prime Minister then, Gough Whitlam, Department of Women Development, empowering of women should be tations. described ASEAN as “unquestionably Ministry of Women, Family and Com- consistent with the empowering of In her interesting the most important, the most relevant, munity Development. men, children, families and ultimately, Dato’ Ismail Yahya, who was the first lecture, Ambassa- the most natural of the regional or- the entire society. He also mentioned panellist, quoted Surah Ar-Rum Verse dor Duke acknow- ganisations”, which Ambassador In his welcoming remarks, Datuk that it is important to ensure that 21 from the Holy Quran which ledged ASEAN’s Duke said still holds true today. Mohamad Sadik Kethergany, the nobody is left behind in the country’s highlights the importance of affection, importance to re- Director General of IDFR, highlighted development. love, tolerance and respect for each IDFR concluded its second IDFR gional peace, stability and prosperity, In terms of political security, Am- that 35 per cent of women in the other in our daily lives. He added that Lecture Series for 2017 on 19 October and added that she has been looking bassador Duke stated that we are Malaysian public sector are holding The panel discussion that followed empowerment is about understanding

DIPLOMATIC VOICE 11

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Malaysia-Australia Young Diplomats’ Round Table 2017

Canberra on a rotation young diplomats and to provide them basis. with the opportunity to participate in lectures and discussion sessions on The fifth Malaysia- issues of interest to both Malaysia and Australia Young Diplo- Australia. It reinforces the two coun- mats Round Table tries’ strong ties, mutual experiences was held at IDFR from 6 and common goals. The young diplo- to 8 September 2017. mats also had the opportunity to share Datuk Mohamad Sadik their countries’ best practices and Kethergany, IDFR’s Di- cultivate the culture of dialogue. rector General and H.E. Aside from the classroom activities, Rod Smith, Australian the young diplomats were also feted High Commissioner to to a luncheon hosted by Datuk Moha- Malaysia, welcomed mad Sadik at IDFR and a reception 24 Australian and hosted by H.E. Rod Smith at his The Malaysia-Australia Young Diplo- Malaysian young diplomats to the official residence. mats Round Table is a biennial programme. programme which aims to strengthen The next Malaysia-Australia Young the relationship between Australia and The three-day programme was Diplomats Round Table will be hosted Malaysia through stronger networking. designed to enhance diplomatic co- by Australia in 2019. It takes place in Kuala Lumpur and operation and networking among the

Inaugural Future Diplomats PeaceGame

On 1 and 2 November 2017, a ju- reign Affairs will be attending the first Abu Dhabi 2017, to be held in the nior officer from the Ministry of Fo- ever Future Diplomats PeaceGame capital city of the United Arab Emi-

12 [email protected]

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our rights and responsibilities. Islam She is also smart and confident. How- by the Government to encourage rates. The officer, Mr. Muhammad have been traditionally devoted to war ways or rather, more effective ways, encourages and promotes women ever, Dr. Berma stressed that the issue women to return to the work force Azhari Azmi, is currently attending games. of achieving and maintaining peace. empowerment, and women are of empowerment should also apply to after maternity leave. This includes the the Diploma in Diplomacy programme In addition, considering that the encouraged to know more about men. Both men and women must introduction of flexible working hours at IDFR. When asked about his expectations of programme will gather 25 partici- their rights. Dato’ Ismail said that know their rights and responsibilities. and the flexibility of working from the Peacegame, Mr. Muhammad pants representing different countries couples entering matrimony must home. The Government also includes A collaboration between Foreign Azhari said that given the fact that the around the world, it will be an in- also learn and be more equipped The third panellist, Ms. Abir Abdul assistance for women in need in its Policy magazine, the Belfer Center for programme was first held in 2013, the valuable platform for him to learn with knowledge on their rights and Rahim, advocated the need for society yearly budget. Recently, the Govern- Science and International Affairs at concept introduced by PeaceGame from their respective countries’ best responsibilities. This is to ensure the to empower women to achieve their ment introduced the Komuniti Perwani Harvard University, and the Emirates is novel. It adopts a different ap- practices and also to share Malay- sustainability of the family institution in full potential in their career and their 1Malaysia programme, another initia- Diplomatic Academy, and together proach towards conflict resolution sia's experience in the relevant Malaysia. life, without being judged. She said tive to empower women in Malaysia. with the support of the Ministry of and peace-building. Considering the context. that women today face tougher Foreign Affairs and International emergence of non-traditional security ------Associate Professor Dr. Madeline challenges in meeting societal expec- The panellists concluded that Malay- Cooperation of the United Arab Emi- threats and the surge of non-state In the next issue of the Diplomatic Voice, Berma stated that modern day’s tations. Ms. Abir shared the current sia can be a better country when we rates, the two-day exercise will see actors, the global peace equilibrium is we will share Mr. Muhammad Azhari’s expectations towards women are situation in the corporate world, where empower women to participate ef- young diplomats from around the facing disruption like never before. take on his PeaceGame experience. higher and much more complex than there is still an unequal playing field in fectively in society alongside men. world address the challenges of Hence, his participation at the Peace- before, when they were mostly judged the work force. Hence, more initiatives Empowering women is about provid- conflict resolution and peacebuilding Game will provide him with the by their domestic skills. She added must be created to ensure equal ing equal opportunities to them in the with the same creativity and focus as opportunity to discover alternative that an empowered woman is des- opportunities for women at the work challenging world today. Hence, a What cribed as having a vision, graceful, place. more conducive environment must be soft-hearted yet strong, and she must provided for them to make their own they be respected for her mind and Ms. Ajanis Anak Ba-I explained that choices and to pursue their dreams in turer emphasised the concepts behind admired for her heart and her honesty. many initiatives have been undertaken life. the most impor- this strategy was very say tant points on this interesting. The case essential topic. studies on how Malaysia Her through know- uses this strategy to boost its eco- ledge of the whole nomic growth were very important. subject gave us Considering that Georgia is a fast more motivation developing country and attaches and interest to great importance to economic growth fully engage in the and innovations, it will be important activities. Being in for me to share Malaysia’s Blue a foreign service Ocean Strategy with my colleagues in requires us to Georgia. have a lot of skills, Sofiko Balanchivadze, a participant and negotiation skills, in this respect, Malaysia in ASEAN was another of the MTCP: Strategic Analysis are essential. The main learning point interesting lecture to listen to. As I Course for International Participants from this particular lecture was how work in the Department of Europe in from Georgia (centre) shares with us crucial the details and in-depth infor- the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of several modules in the above course mation on the subject are. I learnt Georgia and we deal with different that had an impact on her. that we should always be aware of issues altogether, it was very interest- the other side’s strategy as much as ing for me to hear thorough informa- No matter how many courses you possible as it can have a direct im- tion about the regional organisation attend and how important the courses pact on our particular aim. The case itself and specifically, Malaysia’s role are, the truth is that each one holds a studies that were discussed during in it. special meaning to you and may have the lecture made this point even an influence on your future activities. clearer. The mistakes that I made Last but not least, it is also note- In my case, the Strategic Analysis while discussing the case studies worthy to mention the impact that Course, held from 14 to 24 August will be a major reminder for me in the Sabah trip had on me. In the three 2017 at IDFR, answered and ex- dealing with similar scenarios in the days there, we had the opportunity to ceeded all my expectations. There future. visit not only the touristic and cultural were several modules which I held in attractions, but we were also able to high regard. Another lecture that I would like to observe closely how successfully the highlight is the Blue Ocean Strategy, state utilises its touristic and eco- First of all, it was extremely interes- which was a totally new area for me. nomic potential. It is definitely some- On 1 and 2 November 2017, a ju- reign Affairs will be attending the first Abu Dhabi 2017, to be held in the ting to listen to the international Hence, starting with the introduction thing I will share with my colleagues nior officer from the Ministry of Fo- ever Future Diplomats PeaceGame capital city of the United Arab Emi- negotiation lecture, where the lec- and continuing with understanding back home.

DIPLOMATIC VOICE 13

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2017/2018 Master of Social Science

The 2017/2018 Master of Social Ekhwan Toriman, Dean of the Fa- The students also had the opportunity Science students, comprising thirteen culty of Social Sciences and Hu- to have a discussion with Datuk Malaysian students and one interna- manities, and Associate Professor Dr. Mohamad Sadik Kethergany, the tional student from Afghanistan, at- Sity Daud, Chairperson of the School Director General of IDFR. tended a three-day orientation session of History, Politics and Strategic prior to the start of their programme. Studies; both of Universiti Kebang- We welcome the new students to the saan Malaysia. This was prior to a IDFR family. During the orientation session, the familiarization tour of the universi- students were briefed by Professor ty’s library.

Courtesy Calls on the Director General

Several courtesy calls were made on High Commissioner to Malaysia, of Sri Lanka to Malaysia to IDFR. H.E. the Director General in the last three called on Datuk Mohamad Sadik on 18 Muzammil has been the new Sri months. August 2017. Among others, the Lankan High Commissioner since Director General and H.E. Smith January 2017. He replaced his prede- His Excellency Shanker Das Bairagi, discussed further on the organising of cessor, H.E. Ibrahim Sahib Ansar. Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign the Malaysia-Australia Young Diplo- During the discussion, H.E. Muzammil Affairs of Nepal visited IDFR on 10 July mats Round Table 2017. It was also at expressed desire to establish closer 2017. H.E. Bairagi was interested to the courtesy call that H.E. Smith cooperation between IDFR and the learn more about IDFR’s role as the proposed for IDFR and the High Com- Bandaranaike International Diplomatic training arm of the Ministry of Foreign mission to coorganise a public lecture Training Institute. Affairs of Malaysia. He was also keen by Ambassador Jane Duke, Australia’s to send several Home-Based Staff Ambassador to ASEAN. Aside from the above courtesy calls, in Kuala Lumpur to the basic Malay Datuk Mohamad Sadik also received language course. On 20 September 2017, Datuk Moha- the visit of Mr. No’man Ahmad, Regis- mad Sadik welcomed His Excellency trar of Universiti Malaysia Sabah on 12 His Excellency Rod Smith, Australian A.J.M Muzammil, High Commissioner September 2017.

Continued from page 1

14 [email protected] On 22 August 2017, IDFR once again ces as well as food samplings ASEAN-Malaysia National Secretariat, organised a Cultural Appreciation Day were among the activities at this Istana Budaya and Kraftangan Ma- (CAD), an event which aims to year’s CAD. The participants included laysia. promote multiculturalism and cultural those from the Malaysian Technical diplomacy. It was the second one after Cooperation Programme (MTCP): As part of their showcase, the Strate- the inaugural event was held on 28 Strategic Analysis Course for Inter- gic Analysis Course participants – July last year. This year saw the after- national Participants; the Diplomatic from Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herze- noon of merriment officiated by Dato’ Training Course for Universiti Ma- govina, Fiji, Georgia, Kenya, Laos, Sri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, the laysia Sabah (UMS); and the Diploma Mauritania, Nigeria, Papua New Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. in Diplomacy (DiD), the three pro- Guinea, Uzbekistan and Vietnam – grammes taking place at the Institute donned their traditional costumes Cultural exhibitions and performan- then. Other participants included the and displayed cultural accoutrements

Diplomatic Training Course for ASEAN Secretariat Attachment Officers 2015

DIPLOMATIC VOICE 15 MTCP: Diplomatic Training Course for ASEAN Junior Diplomats 2015

16 [email protected]