Volume 1 2020 DIPLOMATIC A TRIANNUAL PUBLICATION OF THE INSTITUTE OF DIPLOMACY AND FOREIGN RELATIONS, MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, MALAYSIA VOICE ISSN 2289-1277

The Knowledge Management Launching Ceremony and Exchange of MOUs

The Knowledge Management there were also exchanges of copies tacit knowledge for the benefits of Launching Ceremony was held at the of the Memorandum of Understanding future decision-makings by officials of Multipurpose Hall, Wisma Putra, Ministry (MOU) between IDFR and Universiti the Ministry on matters pertaining to of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia on 14 Malaya (UM), Universiti Malaysia diplomacy and international relations. February 2020. The event was graced Sarawak (UNIMAS), and Universiti The Minister applauded the co-operation by the Honourable Dato’ Saifuddin Malaysia Sabah (UMS). The event and collaboration between IDFR and Abdullah, the then Minister of Foreign was attended by 150 attendees the Higher Learning Institutions in Affairs of Malaysia. Also present were comprising of Wisma Putra officers, Malaysia in ensuring the knowledge on Datuk Wira Marzuki Yahya, the then representatives from public universities, diplomacy and international relations Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dato’ government agencies, and the media. is shared, circulated, and utilised by Amran Mohd Zin, the Ministry’s Deputy officials of the Ministry, academicians, Secretary General I, Vice Chancellors, In his speech, Dato’ and KM practitioners. He also touched and representatives from Universiti stressed the importance of knowledge on his aspirations pertaining to the KM Malaya, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, and the need to manage it systematically initiative of the Ministry, as a platform and Universiti Malaysia Sabah. Apart for future reference. He also touched for knowledge-sharing activities, which from the launching of the Ministry’s on the importance of the process of in future will benefit the officers of the Knowledge Management (KM) initiative, capturing, storing, and reproducing Ministry and the public.

Continued on page 14 CONTENTS

Follow us on 1 The Knowledge Management Launching Ceremony Facebook and Twitter 2-9 Forum @IDFRMalaysia 10-14 News 15-16 In and Around IDFR FORUM

Navigating the Samurai Bond and ‘Look East Policy 2.0’: A Deeper Malaysia-Japan Economic Partnership?

Norraihan Zakaria Imran Hakim Mohamedsha

Upon his return to the premiership in First introduced by Tun Mahathir on 8 attempt to replicate the export-oriented May 2018, Tun February 1982 at the 5th Joint Annual manufacturing model can be deemed has made six official visits to Japan to Conference of the Malaysia-Japan successful. In addition, the Japanese further strengthen bilateral relations. In Economic Association in Kuala Lumpur, government also allocated USD400 one of the visits, the Japanese Prime the Look East Policy reflected Malaysia’s million in loans and grants in 1998 and Minister, Shinzo Abe, has reciprocated shifting development model, away from 1999 for educational scholarships, with Malaysia’s wishes to reinforce the laissez-fare capitalism propagated almost 2,000 Malaysian students of economic partnership, particularly on by the West to the developmental state science and engineering backgrounds exchanges in technical education, policy adopted by Japan and South in Japanese universities benefitting from human resource competency, and Korea. That is, the complementary the scheme.5 However, further analysis technology transfers.1 Consequently, state-business relationship in Japan of the Look East Policy has highlighted the Japanese Government had offered had inspired him to replicate such an policy inefficiencies that should serve financial assistance to Malaysia in the idea in Malaysia, in which the state as key lessons for future bilateral form of a low-interest, Tokyo-based, can direct and facilitate private sector cooperation: yen-denominated bond, or the Samurai investments to promote socioeconomic bond, in November 2018. The bond, growth, especially given his belief that i. Creating Conducive Economic eventually issued in March 2019, was the unrestrained Western capitalism Incentives offered at an ultra-low interest rate would fail to alleviate the economic of 0.65%, in which cheap access to gap between the Malays and non- Given the borderless nature of capital capital market can finance infrastructure Malays.3 Essentially, this form of state movements, attracting constant flows projects and alleviate Malaysia’s public intervention relies on the establishment of FDI relies on a conducive and debt concerns.2 The renewed ties have of state-owned enterprises to invest in competitive economic environment arguably drawn a parallel with the Look strategic sectors with the profits being that provides comparable returns to East Policy, first introduced by Tun reinvested into public domain. However, investment. While Japan has always Mahathir during his first stint as the pursuing the Asian development model been the largest source of manufacturing Prime Minister, given the similarities in posed a challenge to Malaysia as it FDI in Malaysia since 1980 – totalling at motivation (to replicate the Japanese lacked intensive physical, capital, and RM88.5 billion as of 20166 – this flow economic model), scope (education, human resources to promote an export- only accelerated after the 1985 Plaza technology, and investments), and oriented, heavy-industry manufacturing. Accord, in which the depreciation leadership. Although this replication of Thus, the Look East Policy was of USD against the yen incentivised the special bilateral relationship of the introduced with these two main pillars at Japanese firms to scour for investment yesteryears has already shown swift its core: 1) replicating Oriental virtues and opportunities abroad due to currency policy outcomes, lessons learnt from the values, work ethics, and management advantages. In fact, there exists a Look East Policy imply that more must style through educational and training significant disparity in Japanese FDI be done within the context of Malaysia- exchanges and 2) attracting Japanese pre- and post-1985 – the values ranged Japan relations. More specifically, investments and technology transfers to from RM32.6 million to RM308.7 million considering how Tun Mahathir aspires to cover such constraints.4 between 1970 and 1984 and RM116.3 make Malaysia a high-income country by million to RM4.2 billion between 1985 2025, the ‘Look East Policy 2.0’ should Lessons from Look East Policy and 1991.7 Thus, Malaysia must realise then reflect the complex challenges that bilateral economic cooperation is faced by the global economic structure After over three decades of its not based solely on altruism or political in the 21st century and beyond. In other implementation, the Look East Policy goodwill, but also encompasses sound words, Putrajaya should ensure that the can be evaluated with varying degrees and valid domestic macroeconomic ‘Look East Policy 2.0’ is not limited to of success. With an uninterrupted principles. investment promotions and educational period of rapid economic growth exchanges, but rather sophisticated averaging almost 8% annually between ii. Balancing Idiosyncratic and permanent technology transfers. mid-1980s and prior to the Asian Motivations and Tangible Outcomes Financial Crisis in 1997, which was Look East Policy as the mostly aided by extensive foreign direct However, the Look East Policy was cornerstone of Malaysia-Japan investments (FDI) from East Asia, the not limited to Tun Mahathir’s economic

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vision of Malaysia. His deep admiration on the Japanese interest rates – from encouraging, especially in the scope of the Japanese culture, work ethics, the overnight Central Bank Rates to the of supporting Malaysia’s aspirations of and successes in a Western-dominated 10-year long-term Government bond being a high-income nation by 2025. world – amplified by his Global South yield – have remained below 0.5%, or However, given the rapid disruption of activism and nationalist stances – has even negative, since the economic conventional economic structures that illustrated the extent of idiosyncrasy in crash in 2008.11 That is, low interest is upon us – with the breakthrough Malaysian foreign relations. For instance, rates can encourage public and private emergence of Industry 4.0, big data, the Look East Policy was considered an investments as the cost of borrowing artificial intelligence, Internet-of-Things, integral part of the two-pillared Malaysian is essentially at its lowest today and and similar technological-driven foreign policy in the 1980s, with the other would only increase in future (barring changes – the Government should being the ‘Buy British Last’. Introduced the unlikely mainstreaming of negative further elevate and expand its idea of by Tun Mahathir in 1981 merely months rates). Therefore, issuing a Samurai bilateral economic relations to ensure after entering office, the ‘Buy British bond offers an avenue for Malaysia to not that it is not left behind in the digital Last’ signified the deteriorating relations only finance its domestic development epoch. Since Japan is listed as the between the UK and Malaysia that were at a lower cost, but also free up funds ninth most innovative economy in the mostly attributed to the exorbitant tuition to dispose higher-rated loans issued world while South Korea retained its first hike for Malaysian students at British by the previous administration, such as spot for the sixth year running based universities and the hostile reception the RM5 billion, 30-year, government- on the 2019 Bloomberg Innovation from the London Metal Exchange to guaranteed 1MDB bond issued at Index – an index that measures an attempted takeover of Guthrie, a 5.75% annual rate.12 countries’ innovativeness based then British company – although other on their research and development factors such as economic nationalism, The continuous effort to strengthen intensity, patent activity, tertiary perceived lack of reciprocity, and bilateral relations was promptly education efficiency, productivity, value- domestic grievances were also recognised by Japan, in which Malaysia added manufacturing, high-tech public identified.8 Consequently, this approach was granted access to the Japanese company density, and researcher resulted in rather inefficient outcomes, capital markets to issue its first Samurai density15 – the ‘Look East Policy 2.0’ notably in the procurement process for bond after a thirty-year absence in should not then be reduced to mere a sugar company when a Japanese March 2019. The 10-year bond that carbon copies of the first Look East tractor was preferred over that of the is guaranteed by the Japan Bank for Policy. Despite its prior benefits, Malaysia British despite the latter being 20% International Cooperation (JBIC) at must be bold to ensure that the approach cheaper.9 While the extent of leaders 0.63% per annum was approximately under the ‘Look East Policy 2.0’ will be imprinting their personal influences in oversubscribed by 1.6 times at the distinct, as to facilitate advanced and policies can often be overstated as the value of JP¥324.7 billion against the sophisticated technological exchanges former are usually constrained by global initial offering of JP¥200 billion – with that are conducive to the invention and domestic political-economic norms the conditions being much more and development of productive heavy – including that of Tun Mahathir, whose advantageous relative to those of its industries. In this context, Malaysia foreign policies are a manifestation of ASEAN peers, e.g., Indonesia with can emulate other advanced nation his personality traits and the need to JP¥100 billion at 1.27% per annum and approach towards innovation and promote national development, national Philippines with JP¥40.8 billion at 0.99% technology transfers: establishing tri- integration, and regime maintenance10 per annum.13 Although economic sectoral research sectors (industrial, – Malaysia must then ensure that future fundamentals and market confidence academic, and government) with specific bilateral partnerships are planned have greater weightage in determining yet complementary purposes to extract to minimise the disparity between the terms of foreign-guaranteed debts, multiplier effects of foreign ventures idiosyncratic motivations and tangible in which Malaysia arguably outperforms and minimising the development gap political-economic outcomes. most of its neighbours, close between foreign-based academic diplomatic relations may offer additional knowledge and domestic-based Samurai Bond: A Stimulant to the reassurance on economic agreements. industrial outcomes through institutional ‘Look East Policy 2.0’ collaboration in the commercialisation ‘Look East Policy 2.0’: Status Quo or process.16 The growing internationalisation of bond a Collaborative Breakthrough? markets, i.e., the ability to issue foreign- Conclusion denominated bond by non-residents, The issuance of the Samurai bond and has prompted governments to seek the commitment by University of Tsukuba The prompt financial relief through the for alternative, and often affordable, to establish the first ever Japanese issuance of Samurai bond inherently financing options abroad. For example, university branch abroad in Malaysia14 signals the positive reaffirmation of Malaysia has requested for yen credit – imply that initial outcomes of the Malaysia-Japan relations under Tun from Japan given how most indicators ‘Look East Policy 2.0’ have been rather Mahathir’s second stint as the Prime

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Minister, which is arguably reminiscent Endnotes Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Retrieved on 3 October 2019 from https://fred. of the first Look East Policy. The efforts 1 Online (2018). Malaysia and Japan to stlouisfed.org/tags/series?t=interest%20 to resurrect the highs of the special revive Look East policy. The Star Online. Retrieved rate%3Bjapan%3Boecd&rt=oecd& on 16 September 2019 from https://www.thestar. ob=pv&od=desc partnership of the past have been com.my/business/business-news/2018/06/12/ evidently expressed by the Malaysian malaysia-and-japan-to-revive-look-east-policy 12 Edgeprop.MY (2018). 1MDB’s 2009 bond, and the mystery of millions in profit. Edgeprop.MY. government today. While it might be 2 Yong, Y. (2018). Malaysia to issue Samurai Bond Retrieved on 16 September 2019 from https:// tempted to replicate the approaches by March next year. The Star Online. Retrieved on www.edgeprop.my/content/1417599/1mdbs- 16 September 2019 from https://www.thestar. 2009-bond-and-mystery-millions-profit of the Look East Policy – given how com.my/news/nation/2018/11/02/ malaysia-to- issue-samurai-bond-by-march-next-year 13 Tay, C. (2019). Dr M’s Japan visits pay it has benefitted from Japanese off as Putrajaya gets lowest Samurai bond investments, academic exchanges, 3 Lee, P.P. (2016). Comparing the Applicability of coupon in Asean. The Edge Markets. Retrieved the Japanese and Chinese Models to Malaysia. on 16 September 2019 from https://www. and production outsourcing – Malaysia Malaysian Journal of Economic Studies, 53(1), theedgemarkets. com/article/dr-ms-japan-visits- must acknowledge that almost 40 153-163. pays-putrajaya-gets-lowest-samurai-bond- coupon-asean years have elapsed since then. The 4 Furuoka, F. (2007). Malaysia-Japan Relations 14 subsequent drastic changes in global under the Mahathir Administration: Case Ariff, S. U. (2019). Dr M: Malaysia to host first Studies of the “Look East” Policy and Japanese overseas Japanese varsity branch campus. The structures of political economy and Investment in Malaysia. Asian Survey, 47(3), 505- New Straits Time. Retrieved on 23 September 519. 2019 from https://www.nst.com.my/news/ the practical application of economic nation/ 2019/08/511240/dr-m-malaysia-host- conventional wisdoms, mostly attributed 5 Ibid. first-overseas-japanese-varsity-branch-campus to the emergence of disruptive and 6 The Star Online (2017). Japan remains Malaysia’s 15 Jamrisko, M., Miller, L. J. & Lu, W. (2019). transformative technologies, have top source of FDIs. The Star Online. Retrieved on These Are the World’s Most Innovative Countries. 22 September 2019 from https://www.thestar. Bloomberg. Retrieved on 24 September 2019 inherently put Malaysia at a crossroads: com.my/business/business-news/2017/11/02/ from https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/ Putrajaya could maintain the status quo japan-remains-malaysias-top-source-of-fdis 2019-01-22/germany-nearly-catches-korea-as- innovation-champ-u-s-rebounds in pursuing its ties with Tokyo – just like 7 Aslam, M. & Piei, M. H. (2006). Malaysia-Japan: 16 Tun Mahathir’s first stint in office – or Unequal Trade Partners. In Jomo, K.S. (Ed.). World Intellectual Property Organization (2012). Japan and Malaysia Economic Development: Technology Transfer in Countries in Transition: it could be bold by recognising, and In the Shadow of the Rising Sun. Abingdon-on- Policy and Recommendations. Geneva: Division Thames. Routledge: pp. 21-43. for Certain Countries in Europe and Asia, World hence, incorporating responses to, Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). these complex challenges of the 21st 8 Daud, M. A. (2017). Buy British Last. Sejarah: Journal of the Department of History, 24(1), 77------century and beyond. Regardless of the 93. path it chooses, its implications must 9 Ibid. Associate Professor Dr Norraihan Zakaria is be carefully dissected to ensure that Principal Researcher at the Centre for Political Malaysia is not blindsided by historical 10 Dhillon, K. S. (2009). Malaysian Foreign Policy Studies and Economic Diplomacy, IDFR. She is in the Mahathir Era 1981-2003: Dilemmas of on secondment from Universiti Sains Malaysia. ties to explore other – or even more – Development. Singapore: NUS Press. beneficial partnerships, or even worse, Mr. Imran Hakim Mohamedsha was previously 11 Organization for Economic Co-operation to avoid falling into lopsided and/or attached to the Centre for Political Studies and and Development (2019). Main Economic Economic Diplomacy, IDFR. unfair deals. Indicators – complete database. FRED,

Japan’s Holistic Human Security

Mohd Ikbal Mohd Huda Abzarul Azlin Syamsiah Abdullah

Introduction such as environmental injustice, to fulfil the ‘national interest’. Because of underdevelopment, poverty, and that, scholars had split Human Security The human security approach by the terrorism. into two major schools of thought i.e. global 1994 Human Development protective Human Security (freedom Report (HDR) of the United Nations Human Security argues that the scope from fear) and development Human Development Programme (UNDP) of global security should be expanded Security (freedom from want). was the initiation point. This new to people-centred rather than territorial security approach broadens the and state-centric. People or individuals Since the announcement by UNDP, scope of traditional security analysis should be the main actor in the Japan was among the first country that deals with conventional issues international relation affairs. However, acknowledging and advocating for ranging from territorial security, the concept remains indefinable due to human security in the international violence, and destructions to the its characteristics that are vast, vague, community. Hitherto, Japanese non-traditional analysis which and ambiguous. The interpretation might government made this concept as a deals with non-conventional issues be different depends on how one wants pillar of its own diplomacy and has

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adopted it as the guiding paradigm economics and politics in the long run. order to ensure the perseverance of in formulating its foreign policy and national interest. implementing development projects be This concept agreed on the importance it domestically or externally (Toshiyuki, of connecting between security Kiichi Miyazawa, former Minister of 2017). This concept has been and development and as a means International Trade and Industry, said given special place in the Japanese to peacebuilding efforts in conflict in 1971 that “highly depending on US Diplomatic Bluebook each year. region (Toshiyuki, 2017). It stresses nuclear umbrella (JUSST) is basically that development and security are incompatible with Japan’s national However, Japan’s definition of Human inseparably connected. Security sovereignty. Coming generation, in Security was placed in the middle promotes peace and peace is necessary order to satisfy their desire to be the between the two categories of school of for development to take place. It master of their own land, will determine thought. Therefore, this article will explain stresses long-term solutions to threats to build their own umbrella instead the Japanese concept of Human Security and prevention rather than short-term of relying on their neighbours”. This and scrutinise the reasons behind why protection as proposed by the other statement becomes the foundation for Japan adopts its own ‘Human Security schools of thought. the next generation of policy makers concept’ apart from the other two. in formulating and executing Japan’s The most prominent success case foreign policies. Japanese Holistic Human Security of HHS championed by Japan was (HHS) through the Official DevelopmentFurthermore, a study done by the Asia Assistance (ODA). As the top ODA Competitiveness Institute, Lee Kuan Japanese version of Human Security donour in the world, the Japanese Yew School of Public Policy over the was an act of balancing tools between cemented its approach on HHS in the past four decades had awakened the the two schools of thought of Human name of development assistance. While Japanese. This study clarified that Security. This holistic approach of Human meeting the importance of addressing Japan was 3.2 times more important Security is flexible and argued that the underdevelopment, it also stresses as a growth engine than China to the both schools are equally important and the importance of safeguarding the Southeast Asia during the 1980-1989 interdependence. It is flexible in order to constitutional security and sovereignty. period; but it falls to 1.4 times from 1990 narrow down the gap between the two As a result, the concept of Human to 1999. Therefore, unless a strategic schools. Nevertheless, that flexibility Security and the subsequent approach shift is made, it is projected that Japan’s applicable to those development and to development and security has spread significance as a growth engine in the security makes it a concept that can be in the Asia Pacific Region (Feigenblatt, region will be reduced further in future accepted by a wide array of international 2009). This also allows Japan to (Giap & Yi, 2019). actors and is adaptable as the guiding continue to operate in rogue places principle behind policy making. Prime such as Myanmar that would otherwise Therefore, the announcement by Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi was the person be impossible to any international Minister Keizo Obuchi to infuse HHC into who put so much efforts in instilling humanitarian organisations to infiltrate. Japan’s foreign policy had been taken human security into Japanese foreign as an opportunity for Japan to exploit its policy. In an international conference Reasons for Japan Adapting to Achilles’ heels into opportunities. in 1988 in Hanoi, Obuchi announced Holistic Human Security that Japan would donate 500 ii. Psychological War – Disseminating million yen (USD4.2 million) for the i. Relevance with the Alliance Soft Power establishment of Human Security Fund Entrapment (Toshiyuki. 2017). This marked the Hence, due to the pressure mentioned origin of HHS in Japan’s foreign policy. The signing of the Japan-US Security in para 3.1, in 1980 under the Treaty (JUSST) in 1952 has deprived administration of Prime Minister Buzan, in his book People, States Japan of its right to exercise a Masayoshi Ohira, the concept of and Fear, outlined that the theory on normal statehood (Dower, 1997) and ‘comprehensive national security’ was human security is rooted on the cause had continued even after gaining introduced where it blends both military of the security itself, by addressing the independence from the United States and non-military countermeasures cause of threats then the formulation of in 1952 (Takashi, 2003) where Japan (Md Akhir, Govindasamy & Mustafa, remedies will project the best solution had since been hampered unilateral 2009). However, prior to that and (Stone, 2009). This newly proposed benefits for its ally. Subsequently, Japan accentuated with the Fukuda doctrine, framework introduced by Barry Buzan was unable to dislodge US influences Japan had already approached other was relatable to the HHS concerns. HHS while formulating its foreign policies. states through comprehensive security would favour adapting to the situation This had affected the policy makers in which was similar to the HHC concepts on the root in order to yield sustainable manoeuvring Japan’s foreign policy in that are strongly oriented in expanding

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financial aid and economic cooperation, inclusive and just, and leave no one Japan’s Holistic Human Security proved sustainable growth, security, and behind, rooted strongly in human rights that it suits countries with the absence community-building in the region principles and standards. of military power but still want to expand (Tanaka, 2009). For instance, in 1970, its influence politically and economically half of Japan’s Official Development In 2019’s symposium that took place at without being traced. Assistance globally had been wired the UN quarters, Japan had managed References: to Southeast Asia (SEA) based on its to assure other member to place Toshiyuki Nasukawa (2017) Human Security strategic geographical location and ‘human security’ as the centre topic for in Japanese Foreign Policy：A Challenge to historical value (Mohd Huda, 2010) discussion (Japan Times, 2019). It was Peacebuilding. also agreed that the power of human Md Nasrudin Md Akhir, (2006). Pertahanan Memories of Japanese aggression security stays acute and is relevant up Jepun: Ancaman Senjata Nuklear di Asia Timur. in the World War II coupled with the to today because of its comprehensive Otto von Feigenblatt, (2009). ASEAN and Human question of Japan’s legitimacy under and integrated mechanism identical Security: Challenges and Opportunities. the JUSST had somehow undermined to SDGs in tackling complex issues United Nations Development Programme, (2016). Japan’s credibility and efforts to widen considered as the stumbling block for Sustainable Development Goals. its influence. The American withdrawal development and sustainability as well United Nations News, (2014). Human security approach essential to tackling 21st century from Vietnam in 1975 had created the as security for all. challenges. ‘power vacuum’ in the SEA region. Post Endymion Wilkinson, (1990). Japan Versus the Plaza Accord in 1985 and accentuated Japan is also proactively supporting West: Image and Reality. by the bursting of the ‘bubble economy’ the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Reinhard Drifte, (1996). Japan’s Foreign Policy in in 1986, which worsened Japan’s Development (the 2030 Agenda) 1990s. state of affairs, had somehow affected adopted during the UN Summit in Md Nasrudin Md Akhir, Geetha Govindasamy & Japan’s strategy to approach others September 2015, as it also reflects the Zakaria Mustafa, (2009). Japan and East Asia: Diplomacy and Strategic Partnership. (Drifte, 1996). core of HHS principles which is ‘people- centred’. Therefore, it is not absurd to Md Nasrudin Md Akhir, Rohayati Paidi & Mohd Ikbal Mohd Huda, (2010). Japan In East Asia: This situation had forced Japan to say that Japan will continue to support Socio-politics and Economic Dimensions. reconsider its strategy to reach out and promote Human Security in future Richard Stubbs (2002). ASEAN Plus Three: to external domination and in the as its principles affinity with Japan’s Emerging East Asia Regionalism. pursuit of improving its image, so strategy in preserving its national interest Marianne Stone, (2009). Security According to that the perception of Japanese as (Japan MOFA, 2019). Buzan: A Comprehensive Security Analysis. “samurai in business suits” weakened Takashi Inoguchi, (2003). Japan’s Ambition for (Garby & Bullock, 1994). During the Conclusion Normal Statehood. implementation of the Fukuda Doctrine Tan Khee Giap and Tan Yan Yi (2019). Economic from 1976, Japan’s role as the only Strategies that are rooted in Human and political reasons for Japan’s pivot back to ASEAN. Retrieved from https://www. non-Western country member of the Security can strengthen the state-society businesstimes.com.sg/opinion/ economic-and- Group of Seven (G7) alleviated its status relations and empower communities political-reasons-for-japans-pivot-back-to-asean as an Asian power and suitable trading as active agents for change (UN Craig C. Garby and Mary Brown Bullock (1994). partner for SEA neighbours (Bobowski, News, 2014). Hence, Human Security Japan A New Kind of Superpower. 2014). Thus, for years, Japan has been should be incorporated with economic Daizo Sakurada, (1998). Why we need the US- Japan Security Treaty. using its economic power, ODA, and development assistance because it Humanitarian Assistance (elements of forms an important part of people’s well- Mark Beeson, (2003). Japan’s Reluctant Reformers and the Legacy of Developmental HHC) as a way to disseminate its soft being and is therefore an objective for State. power and diplomacy in the region. economic development. Lack of human Fuji Kamiya, (1972). Japanese-US Relations and security has hostile effects on economic The Security Treaty: A Japanese Perspectives. Way Forward growth, and vice versa. Imbalanced use Sebastian Bobowski (2014). Japan’s Vision of and exploitation of natural resources East Asia Regionalism – Toward Soft Balancing Japan’s foreign policy is parallel with for development result in socio-political Strategy. Sustainable Development Growth instability, long-term destruction of the H.D.P. Envall. (2016). Japan’s ‘Pivot’ Perspective: Reassurance, Restructuring, and the Rebalance. (SDG) which objectives are prominently environment, pollution, and famine. consistent with Human Security Therefore, governments or states ------concerns. SDG or known as Global should collectively recognise the vital Dr Mohd Ikbal Mohd Huda is Coordinator, M. Goals are a worldwide call to respond roles played by Holistic Human Security Soc. Sc. in Strategy and Diplomacy and Senior and act to end poverty, protect the practised by Japan in addressing issues Lecturer at the Strategic Studies and International Relations Programme, National University of planet from environmental injustice, of security from the grass roots and Malaysia. and ensure that all people enjoy peace remedy it for a sustainable economics Ms Abzrul Azlin Syamsiah is a postgraduate and prosperity (UNDP, 2016). Hence, and politics in the long run. Thus, student (East Asian Studies Programme) at the SDG is a step forward, comprehensive, the injection of soft power played by National University of Malaysia.

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The End of a Regime

Istaq Nadzril Abd Kader “To see a country’s future, look to the sky. To understand a country’s past, look to your feet – the floor, the path, the soil – where history has walked before you.” Anje R.

My term of service in was nearing due to the secession of South Sudan employment, an exodus of Sudanese but the momentum of the protest that in 2011 which impacted the country’s leaving the country since 1989 has started in mid-December 2018 seemed revenue through the production and starved the country of talent. to intensify. The last time such a protest sale of oil by 70 percent, economic erupted was in 2013, but it was short- sanctions, and being listed on the state The three years I have known both of lived and quickly dismissed by the ruling sponsored terrorist list by the United them, never once have they exhibited government’s security apparatus, the States finally led to the collapse of al- interest in the country’s political situation, feared National Intelligence and Security Bashir’s regime. Within two weeks, except the occasional dissatisfaction Services (NISS). The composition of Sudan Professional Association (SPA), with the way the government is running the demonstrators was mostly from the an umbrella for 17 trade and workers the country, depraving it further into younger generation. The feared Arab union appeared, leading, organising, economic chaos. Since the protest Spring in Sudan was muted but not and orchestrating the demonstrations erupted, the mood had changed. wiped out entirely. movement across the country. SPA was Their solidarity and support for the the same organisation that stoked the demonstrators, led by the Sudanese This time around, the demonstration initial protest in 2013 and went incognito Professional Association (SPA), were which started in Atbara Province on post 2013. Yet, since 2016, they were outstanding. Every call for a boycott 19 December 2018, quickly gained covertly organising programmes or passive action was taken seriously momentum and spread throughout like undermining al-Bashir’s regime through and abided since end of December wildfire in major states such as Gedareif, civil disobedience calls including 2018. Even their respective family Sennar, Port Sudan, Wad Madani, and garnering support from the youth as well members, men and women, old to . These cities are synonym to as the Sudanese diaspora. young were staunch supporters. Both such uprisings or Intifadas, particularly of them highlighted that a number of Atbara. Historically, the first Intifada was One day, I sat and discussed the their elderly family members were part in 1965 and the following was in 1985. current situation of Sudan with two of the 1965 and 1985 Intifada as well. Both resulted in the overthrow of the colleagues, Ms Asmahan El Sheikh Hence, it was no surprise to see three ruling government of the day. Learning and Ms Omnia Adil. Both were young generations of men and women of from the past, al-Bashir systematically women professionals at a private entity different age groups taking to the streets purged the trade unions, the core in Khartoum. The only president and under the hot sweltering summer heat, architects for uprisings and created an government they knew since childhood to show their support and solidarity with enterprise union at all levels of society. was of President Omar al-Bashir and a the demonstrators against al-Bashir’s These unions were subservient not only cycle of old politicians such as Sadiq regime. The backing was overwhelming, to him but also the National Congress al-Mahdi the late Turabi and a number from Sudanese diaspora, students, Party (NCP). of others. “Nothing has changed and academics, housewives, street traders things have become worse,” both of to women supporting the Intifada Understanding the role of the military, them lucidly commented while I poured frontlines, chanting Huriya (Freedom). after coming to power through a hot Sudanese coffee from the Jebena coup in 1989, al-Bashir created a into three small glasses. Omnia, a The Factors counterbalance by strengthening the PETRONAS scholarship awardee, NISS and subsequently the creation of earned her degree in Electronic and Sudan was under US economic the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) was an Electrical Degree from University sanctions and on the state sponsored additional insurance in the equation. He Technology Petronas, while Asmahan terrorist list since 1996 and 1997 as well as the other stalwart supporters completed her tertiary education at respectively. Internal conflicts in the of the regime understood that the Omdurman Ahlia University in Business Darfur region as well as armed rebellion unions and military were instrumental studies. At present, Sudan has a in South Kordofan and Blue Nile state in bringing down previous governments high number of graduates who are also placed pressure on the country. To and were aware of the possibility that unemployed and not all of those who many Sudanese, the predicaments were history may repeat itself. have graduated are lucky to secure due to the doings of al-Bashir and his stable employment. The number of proxy, namely al-Turabi. The secession Yet with all the precautions and women graduates outnumbers men. of South Sudan in 2011 inflicted further strategy, the economic asphyxiation But, with the inability to secure stable damage to the economy i.e. the loss of

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control over the oil fields located in the through monopoly as well as restricted south, which constitutes 75 percent of competition. This in turn led to the Sudan’s main export revenue. All the cause of shortages of basic necessities, factors combined compounded the flour, and fuel or what economics would country’s economy. terms as deadweight or in simpler terms - market failure. What made things Despite its status, Sudan’s commitment worst in times of shortages was that against terrorism is observed when priority access was allocated to the it signed all the 12 international military, security apparatus, NCP elites, conventions for combating terrorism. and party members. Cooperation with the US was intensified, particularly in the areas of information Naturally, this situation transcended Picture : An exchange of views on the sharing, preventive and counter its impacts whereby the inflation rate latest development of the demonstration terrorism activities in the region under increased dramatically, resulting in al-Bashir’s administration. This was the skyrocketing prices of goods due of Sudan’s socio-cultural space is used as a leverage to propel rounds to high transportation costs. Several characterised through underlying layers of negotiations with the US under the industries including big conglomerates of meanings, a plurality of signification Obama administration on the lifting of began to scale down their operations and, in many instances, ambiguity. the economic sanctions imposed. The and increased prices of their products, At the same time, this has given the US agreed to lift economic sanctions while medium and small businesses country a distinctly unique cultural imposed on Sudan for approximately have either limited their operating hours contour, taste, and flavour, setting it two decades on 17 October 2017, or cease operations. Shortages of apart from other Arab and African cities. and subsequently on 29 June 2018, products and erratic exchange rate have The coming of this regime, created an the US Office of Foreign Assets Control made it difficult to conduct day-to-day opaqueness. That is why this revolution announced that Sudanese sanctions business operations including the paying is important, to allow the Sudanese regulations had been removed from of wages. These conditions further to return to something concrete”. the Code of Federal Regulations. contributed to the high unemployment However, the lifting did not usher in the rate among the youth, which is likely to The April 2019 Protest positive economic revival as expected be above the official data. by the regime. Blinded by their jubilant What al-Bashir and his regime did not success, the regime was hoodwinked The Question understand was that this third Intifada by the fact that Sudan was still on was different, and the mood was led by the state sponsored terrorist list. In Bearing in mind the country’s economy a younger generation. On 6 April 2019, comparison, the severity of being on the and sipping on the hot coffee infused which coincided with the anniversary of list was higher than being sanctioned. with ginger, I posed the question to both the coup that brought down President Following this, Sudan was still starved of them, “why did you come back to Jaafar Muhammad an-Nimeiry (1969- of financial accessibility, deniedSudan Omnia? You had the opportunity 1985), a sit in was organised and the accesses to financial aid or assistance to work at Petronas Malaysia and turnout of protestors was overwhelming. from bodies such as the World Bank, Asmahan you have the prospect to They converged at the grounds outside International Monetary Fund (IMF), and work in Qatar”. I was astounded to hear of the military headquarters which also others. This included the appeal to be the answer but it deserved respect, housed President Bashir’s residence clustered under the Highly Indebted “We know Sudan has nothing much and placed at the centre of Khartoum. Poor Countries (HPIC) initiative. to offer, but Sudan is our country and we are the future of the country. Others The summer heat did not deter the Due to mismanagement and corruption may leave, and if all leave, the country protestors to disperse and neither the of the proceeds earned during the ‘good will disintegrate. Who will be there to military nor security forces succeeded times’ when Sudan was one country take over if things change and this time in forcing them out of the occupied and the departure from agriculture around, we are sure the regime will fall area. Unprecedented, whereby in the which was the main driving economic and a new political sphere will take form. past demonstrators were immediately force previously, this is one of the main We want to be part of the history and broken up and wrestled with force by the attributes to the state of the country’s contribute where we can do so, small security apparatus. Though there were economy. In addition, the state through or big, that should not be questioned”. some reported incidents of scuffles and shell companies were heavily involved in Similar sentiment was shared by other four casualties, the military were seen a number of economic activities, such young and older professionals when to be protecting the protestors when as commodities, basic necessities, and asked. some rogue security forces were sent others. The purpose of this was to keep to disperse the sit in. This led to calls prices of consumer goods artificially low Omnia continued, “The spectre for the military to join hands and dispose

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al-Bashir regime resonate further. was appointed as al-Bashir’s chief of the US has yet to respond positively. staff and head of the ground forces in Nonetheless, constructive engagement The military were maintaining the stance February 2019. on the matter is ongoing since Mr it took when the Chief of the Military Hamdok and Ms. Asma took office. publicly announced on 11 January 2019 After a number of rounds scuffles, that it supported President Bashir and stalemates, and negotiations, the TMC Realising that it may take time, Mr. that any change of government would and FFC were able to sign a preliminary Hamdok is aware that to save the be through the ballot boxes. However, deal on a power-sharing arrangement civilian government as well as avoiding the army who was in a dilemma, brokered by the African Union on 17 political chaos, positive political steps given the events that unfolded after August 2019. The said provisions of are required. The initial move was to President Bouteflika was forced out by the agreements reached was for the place al-Bashir on a trial for corruption the Algerian army as demanded by the TMC and FFC to form a transitional and followed by disbanding al-Bashir’s protestors to save the establishment, government with the following National Congress Party (NCP) and are now facing renewed demands for structures: affiliates as well as confiscation of total eradication of those who were property and assets of former NCP part of the system, including the army. i. a 39-month transitional period to be party members. The second wave followed by elections in 2023; was to repeal the draconian laws The reluctance of the security against treatment of women and other apparatus to take actions against ii. a Sovereign Council with 11 members institutional changes are required. the demonstrators was a signal, a (5 from the TMC, 5 from the FFC, and Nonetheless, issues pertaining to split between the ruling elite, security a civilian selected jointly), led for 21 institutional development from good apparatus, and military concerning months by a TMC member and then for governance, education, laws, and the status of al-Bashir and his regime. 18 months by a civilian member; other areas require equal attention. Secondly, such feat only signalled that the military felt that the time was iii. Council of Ministers led by a prime As an interim measure, such moves ripe to intervene and undertake their minister, who would be selected by the may momentarily satisfy, but economic traditional role of organising a coup. FFC and who would appoint ministers revival is the cornerstone. Not only for History seems to repeat itself in Sudan from an FFC nomination list, with the the daily wage earners and laymen, but as the current situation would remind exception of the ministers of defence for the diaspora and investors to return many Sudanese of the coup by General and interior, whom the TMC would as well. Retrospectively, the tendency Abdel Rahman Mohammed Hassan select; for Sudan to witness another cocktail of Swareddahab, the then Minister of fireworks with the various Islamic political Defence, Commander in Chief of the iv. a Legislative Council, to be formed parties playing leading role is likely if armed forces, and a close friend against within 90 days of the establishment of there is no positive movement away President Gaafar al-Nimeiry in 1985. the Sovereign Council. from the status quo. As it is, alterations On the other hand, without the unions to the previous laws and system seem and people taking to the streets, the The Civilian Government to brew sentiments. Notwithstanding coup would have been impossible. there is the fear of a likely potential was sworn in as threat i.e. General Mohamed Hamdan Post al-Bashir the Prime Minister of the transitional (Hemetti), deputy of the TMC as well government on 21 August 2019 and as commander of the Rapid Support The takeover of the country’s leadership for the first time in the history of the Forces (RSF) to postulate himself into was led by General Awad Ibn Auf, Vice country, a lady foreign minister by the power if Mr. Hamdok and his nascent President and Minister of Defence, and name Asma Mohamed Abdalla was government are unable to deliver his leader of the Transitional Military Council nominated to the post. Notable, but to (TMC). But this did not sit well with the address the country’s socio-economic ------protestors and Forces for Freedom fundamentals and access to financial aid Istaq Nadzril Abd Kader has experience working and Change (FFC). Within 48 hours, requires Sudan to be delisted from the in Sudan. He served at the Embassy of Malaysia, Sudan. he was replaced by Al-Burhan, who state sponsored terrorist list, of which

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

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Leadership Course for Mid-Level Diplomats 2020

Leadership can be defined as the art coordinated by Mr. Brian Cracknell. role-play activities were also included of motivating a group of people to act in the training and these provided towards achieving a common goal. This course covered several curriculum some exposure to all the participants A leader is expected to establish a and group activities such as Intention to strengthen their understanding clear organisational vision, provide the and Perception on Leadership, the “I” and comprehension about the real information, guidance, and methods to Specialist, International Leadership leadership game in the 21st century. materialise the vision, and coordinate @ Work, and Future Leaders @ Work. the interests of all members and Mr. Cracknell as the instructor also The three-day programme was stakeholders within the organisation. A put forward the five main working concluded and certificates were leader should also be resourceful, acts as principles related to diplomacy presented by Dato’ Mohd Zamruni the-point-of reference, steps up in critical such as Interdependence, Principle, Khalid, Director General of IDFR, to times, and is able to think and decide Pragmatism, Safeguarding the National the participants. Also present was Mr. creative solutions during difficult times. Interest and Sovereignty, as well as Hamizan Hashim, Director of the Centre Contribution towards a just and equitable for Leadership, Negotiation and Public From this perspective, IDFR organised community of nations. Selected Diplomacy. the Leadership Course for Mid-Level reading materials on leadership and Diplomats 2020 from 10 to 12 March 2020. This course was specially designed for the mid-level Diplomatic Officers from grade 44 to 52 to develop their leadership, administrative, and organisational management skills. A total of 14 officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia, Ministry of Education Malaysia, and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation participated in this programme

Ambassador Lecture Series 1/2020

Thursday, 27 February saw IDFR consolidating the existing political and H.E. Le also expanded on the role of organising its first of two Ambassador security instruments and mechanisms; Viet Nam as the ASEAN Chair in the Lecture Series for the year. Held under intensifying co-operation to address global and regional context in which it the purview of the Centre for Political emerging challenges such as the is currently operating, among others, Studies and Economic Diplomacy, COVID-19 epidemic; promoting intra- with the escalation of traditional security the lecture titled Viet Nam’s ASEAN regional economic integration; issues; the increase of non-traditional Chairmanship 2020: Key Deliverables strengthening regional connectivity; security threats, and the strategic was delivered by H.E. Le Quy Quynh, the and developing high-quality human competition between major powers. Ambassador of Viet Nam to Malaysia. capital to meet the demands of the digital economy, social work, The lecture was attended by more H.E. Le explained among the key and services for vulnerable groups. than 80 participants, including senior priorities/deliverables set for this year are officials from the Ministry of Foreign strengthening the organisation’s unity Affairs, Ministry of Education, Ministry and solidarity; reinforcing its centrality of Finance, and Ministry of Defence; and promoting its active contribution ambassadors from South Korea and the to regional peace and stability; European Union, and representatives intensifying its economic integration from, among others, Embassies and connectivity; and increasing its and High Commissions of Australia, institutional capacity and effectiveness. Thailand, Singapore and Philippines; The key forwards include strengthening as well as students from Universiti the habit of dialogue and co-operation Kebangsaan Malaysia and IDFR’s while promoting confidence building; Diploma in Diplomacy programme.

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Diploma in Diplomacy 2020: Opening Ceremony

having fun while learning and savouring their time at IDFR despite giving their full attention and focus to the programme. He also reiterated and amplified the importance of essential values like integrity, humility, and courtesy, as he quoted Benjamin Franklin as saying, “To be humble to superiors is duty, to equals - courtesy, to inferiors - nobleness”.

Having said that, Dato’ Mohd Zamruni expressed his expectation and vision for the DiD 2020 participants, which is to see all of them coming out as diplomats with reputable attitude who will not just uphold the good image of our country, but also bring the dynamism in them to promote and protect Malaysia’s foreign policy agenda, wherever they On 10 February 2020, IDFR held the arm of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are stationed at. Upon completion of opening ceremony of the Diploma in and DiD as the flagship programme his speech, a representative from the Diplomacy (DiD) 2020 Programme. The of IDFR. He further added that the DiD participants came forward to lead institute welcomed 22 Administrative essence of DiD programme is to fortify the recital of participants’ oath followed and Diplomatic Officers from the Ministry the participants’ skills and knowledge in by the signing of the oath which was of Foreign Affairs and the Prime Minister’s the field of diplomacy and international witnessed by the Director General Department to a new promising and relations and inculcate the right attitude, himself. The ceremony ended after a exciting intake of DiD Programme. The mindset as well as values in them to light refreshment at the dining area. event commenced with the registration become highly competent diplomats. Later in the afternoon, the secretariat of participants at the IDFR Treaty He also reminded the participants on took over to conduct a detailed Room followed by the actual opening the main challenge facing diplomats in briefing session on the DiD 2020 ceremony that was graced by Dato’ the current era, which is to quickly adapt programme followed by a familiarisation Mohd Zamruni Khalid, Director General to the dynamics of Foreign Service tour around IDFR and photography of IDFR along with the heads of various and remain competent and relevant. session for participants’ profile. centres in IDFR. Also present were the DiD 2020 Secretariat, in-house language In his opening remarks, Dato’ Mohd At the end of the event, the participants instructors as well as foreign language Zamruni outlined the comprehensive seemed hopeful with renewed spirit and consultants from selected institutes. programme that has been designed for energy to embark on this six-month- the participants, which consists of various journey. IDFR wishes the DiD 2020 At the outset, Dato’ Mohd Zamruni gave elements that are fun and interesting. He participants an enjoyable programme a brief introduction to IDFR as the training further emphasised the importance of and successful future as diplomats.

Reflecting the Past: The Rio Earth Summit 1992… Stories behind the Scene

On 21 February 2020, in collaboration the Scene. The sharing session and Ambassador to Italy and former with the Human Resource Management was moderated by Ms Haznah Md Malaysia’s Permanent Representative Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hashim, Undersecretary of Multilateral to the United Nations Environment Malaysia, IDFR organised its second Economic and Environment Division. Program and the United Nations’ Food Tacit Knowledge programme titled and Agriculture Organization based in Reflecting the Past: The Rio Earth The guest speaker was Dato’ Ting Wen Rome, Italy. She had served for 27 years Summit 1992… Stories behind Lian, former High Commissioner to Fiji in the diplomatic career at Wisma Putra

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of water scarcity, the consumption of towards the environmental issues. Yet, toxic and chemical components, and they were the ones that should decrease finding other alternatives for sources of the pollution and deforestation, but energy to replace the fossil fuels which then they created laws and regulations are linked to global climate change. to be implied on the rest of the global community including Malaysia. The original name of the Rio Summit 1992 was the United Nations’ The session was also attended by Conference on Environment and Datuk Rahimi Harun, Deputy Secretary Development and it was started in 1989 General of Management Services and had been posted to several missions with four preparatory meetings. Dato’ and Dato’ Mohd Zamruni Khalid, such as in Washington, USA; Paris, Ting compared the environmental issues Director General of IDFR. They also France; as well as Tunisia and Algeria. nowadays with the situation 27 years participated actively in the Question ago, i.e. on the Penan people in Sarawak and Answer session with Dato’ Ting. During the session, Dato’ Ting shared and the palm oil industry, although her previous experience in dealing with these are two very different issues yet global environmental concerns and there are similar commonness. Dato’ food issues. As the representative of the Ting also emphasised that our national , she voiced out sovereignty was the main concern above our commitment and readiness to the all, as she argued that the advanced Rio Earth Summit in 1992 with the issues nations were the ones that contributed

Diploma in Diplomacy: Lunch Talks

Lunch Talk with Tan Sri Mohamed assigned to junior Wisma Putra officers there are a few areas of interest that Jawhar Hassan leaves less time for the officers to spend could be used to apply critical thinking. in critical thinking. Other reasons might Some of the international issues include As part of the Diplomatic Skills module include lack of knowledge, having own the United States’ military expenditure, of the Diploma in Diplomacy (DiD) prejudice or biasness, and inclination terrorism, traditional and non-traditional 2020 programme, series of lunch to certain race and religious ideologies. security or comprehensive security, talks was organised by the Centre the Palestinian and Israeli conflict, for Competency Enhancement. Tan Tan Sri Jawhar added that these state security versus human security, Sri Mohamed Jawhar Hassan, Senior reasons, however, should not become Democratic People’ Republic of Korea, Advisor of the Asia Europe Institute hindrance for officers in Wisma Putra Iran, nuclear non-proliferation, economic was invited to give a lunch talk on to develop critical thinking skills. He sanctions, and national interest. Applied Critical Thinking in International further explained that there are some Relations, held on 24 February 2020. qualities that could be adopted to help Overall, the Lunch Talk has provided the Apart from the DiD participants, the officers to think critically. Quoting the participants an overview of how to apply lunch talk was also attended by Dato’ example of Socrates, Tan Sri Jawhar critical thinking in international relations. Mohd Zamruni Khalid, Director General stressed the importance of having of IDFR , officers as well as staff of IDFR. an enquiring mind while discussing international issues. He also added that Tan Sri Mohamed Jawhar shared three apart from taking extra effort to gain ways to tackle the topic of Applied Critical knowledge, one should also practise Thinking in International Relations. First, thinking analytically on the issues of is to identify the hindrances or factors interest to the nation. Nonetheless, he that inhibit critical thinking. Some of reiterated that these skills could not be the hindrances include the influence achieved if one does not have good of culture and education whereby in work ethics. According to him, having some societies, critical thinking is not good work ethics would help officers encouraged. Another block is being naïve to think objectively and be inquisitive or gullible, therefore losing the ability to in handling issues at desk all the time. ascertain fake and real news. He also admitted the high amount of workloads Finally, Tan Sri Jawhar also added that

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Lunch Talk with Tan Sri Ahmad Fuzi Haji Abdul Razak

The participants of Diploma in Diplomacy (DiD) 2020 had the privilege to attend a lunch talk with Tan Sri Ahmad Fuzi Haji Abdul Razak, who served as Secretary General of Wisma Putra spanning from 2001 to 2006. The lunch talk was organised by IDFR on 26 February 2020 to give exposure to the junior diplomats-to-be on the topic of Applied Leadership in Foreign Service.

During the lunch talk, Tan Sri Ahmad Fuzi shared that excellent leadership in the Foreign Service is intended and needed to provide inspiration, guidance, indeed an insightful session with Tan Notwithstanding the things that we and direction to junior officers and do Sri Ahmad Fuzi as the knowledge have learnt from the lunch talk with our level best in pursuit of our national imparted provides us a foundation to Tan Sri Ahmad Fuzi, it is still incumbent interest. In addition, leadership is also contemplate the style of leadership that upon us to explore the suitable style of about motivating every member in an would be the most appropriate for us leadership that would benefit the Ministry organisation to achieve a common to apply in future in order to deliver the throughout the time of our service. goal. While many are born great desired outcome that is expected by leaders, leadership can also be honed Wisma Putra in safeguarding Malaysia’s through learning and practice. It was interest at the international fora.

Youth Ambassador

IDFR successfully organised Youth on the second day and listened to later visited the Malaysian Export Ambassador from 3 to 5 February series of briefings, namelyIntroduction Exhibition Centre and Business 2020. Held under the purview of the to the Institute of Diplomacy and Information Centre. During the tour, they Centre for Leadership, Negotiation and Foreign Relations, Cross Cultural had the chance to see the wide-range Public Diplomacy (LNPD), the three-day Awareness, Public Diplomacy and of local products exported abroad. module is part of the Malaysia Future Media Relations, as well as Introduction Later, the participants had a Fine Dining Leaders School (MFLS) Programme to ASEAN Regional Grouping. They and Etiquette lesson conducted at the 2020 conducted in collaboration also had the opportunity to visit the Dorsett Grand Hotel Subang, where with Institut Pembangunan dan Wisma Putra Gallery and were briefed the participants were taught about Kecemerlangan Kepimpinan (iLEAD), on the services made available for the table manners and proper grooming Ministry of Youth and Sport. The module public, such as the Consular Counter. while attending formal function. was attended by 240 participants nationwide, who were mostly post-Sijil Throughout the three-day programme, Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) students. IDFR believed that all participants had gained sufficient information, On the first day, the participants had knowledge, and skills as part of sessions on Introduction to the Ministry their preparation before representing of Foreign Affairs, Roles and Functions Malaysia in the upcoming educational of Malaysian Missions Abroad, and trip abroad. The closing session was Protocol and Consular Services. held at IYC Cheras and the closing All the activities were held at the remarks was delivered by Mr. Hamizan International Youth Centre (IYC), Cheras. Hashim, Acting Director of LNPD. On the last day, the participants had a The participants had a trip to the short briefing at the Malaysia External Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Putrajaya Trade Development Corporation and

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Diploma in Diplomacy: The Group Dynamics Programme

to the six months long DiD course importance of maintaining psychological currently conducted by the Institute. well-being in the diplomatic career.

Throughout the programme, the Cultural competency was emphasised participants were exposed to various during the programme through group outdoor activities aimed at determining performances conducted on the attitude and behavioural patterns of the last night of the programme. The group. These include leadership games participants successfully exhibited and team building activities focusing the importance of United Nations on problem-solving, teamwork, and Sustainable Development Goals innovation. The physical resilience and through the lens of ‘orang kampung’ discipline of the participants were also via songs, dances, and theatres. tested via high-endurance activities such as hiking and water activities. The programme was successful in determining the attitude and behavioural Participants of the Diploma in Diplomacy At the tranquil retreat, the participants pattern of the group. At the end of the (DiD) 2020 had recently undergone were given a safe space to venture into programme, the participants were a Group Dynamics programme at the often forgotten component of mental assigned to five permanent groupings Dusun Bonda, Batang Kali, Selangor health. They were encouraged to take which will last until the completion of the from 12 to 14 February 2020. The risks, voice opinions, and ask judgement- course. It is hoped that these groupings programme was organised by IDFR free questions outside the confines will enhance the positive group in collaboration with Muna Event & of the office through activities such as dynamics, and enable the participants of Entertainment. It served as a precursor the reflection session that marked the the DiD 2020 to reach their full potential.

continued from page 1

The implementation of KM at the Zamruni Khalid, the Director General institutions of higher learning to ensure Ministerial level could be seen as a of IDFR exchanged the copies of the the success of the implementation of KM. two-pronged strategy. Firstly, it aims signed MOUs between IDFR and UM, to promote knowledge sharing and UNIMAS, and UMS, with the Vice In that light, the collaborations between acquisition among the officers in Wisma Chancellors or representatives of the IDFR and the three public universities: Putra. Secondly, it will encourage the respective universities during the event. UM, UNIMAS, and UMS among others, sharing of tacit and explicit knowledge In his speech, Dato’ Mohd Zamruni would give the opportunity to expand by the senior officers of the Ministry and lauded the efforts put through the KM the scope of knowledge sharing in the former Malaysian diplomats with the platform to enhance the skills and field of diplomacy and foreign relations. currently serving officers. IDFR, as the efficiency of Wisma Putra officers. He It is hoped that through the active training arm of the Ministry, has been believes that on-the-job experiences exchanges and sharing of information assigned to lead the KM’s initiative of and knowledge gained from former with the universities, the Institute could the Ministry. The Institute is planning to Malaysian diplomats through KM would perform the task of implementing KM set up a KM repository, where various go a long way in benefitting Wisma in the Ministry efficiently and at the documents, articles, pictorial, and Putra officers. KM could become part of same time stimulate the culture of audio-video recordings on diplomacy the norm and culture amongst Wisma knowledge sharing in Wisma Putra. and foreign affairs will be collected Putra officers in carrying out their duties. and preserved for future references. He also emphasised the importance of concerted effort of all parties involved, Besides the launch of KM, Dato’ Mohd especially the collaborations with News Contributors

Amirul Khairi Mustafa Bakri, Noraini Awang Nong, Nidyakala Manian, Sanjiya Narayanan Pamusamy,Jason Low Tze Hian, Wan Maisarah Idrus Mohamed

14 | [email protected] IN AND AROUNDNEWS IDFR

Reflecting the Past: The Rio Earth Summit 1992, 21 February One of the Activities at IDFR 2020 Retreat, Avilion Admiral Cove, Port Dickson, 17 January

DiD Participants’ Fine Dining, Reception and Official Entertaining Session, 3 March

Courtesy Call by H.E. Imanbayev Bolat, Ambassador of the DiD Participants’ Group Dynamics, Batang Kali, Selangor, 12-14 Republic of Kazakhstan in Malaysia, 31 January February

Courtesy Call by Major General Dato’ Mohd Yusof Say it Right: A Course on Pronunciation Series 1, 11-13 February Aziz, Commandant of the National Resilience College, 24 February

DIPLOMATIC VOICE | 15 IN AND AROUND IDFR

Lunch Talk with Tan Sri Mohamed Jawhar, 24 February Courtesy Call by Her Excellency Julia G. Bentley, High Commissioner of Canada, 6 February

Group Photography, IDFR 2020 Retreat, 16 January

The Knowledge Management Launching Ceremony, 14 February Lunch Talk with Tan Sri Ahmad Fuzi, 26 February

Courtesy Call by H.E. Mauricio Gonzalez Lopez, Courtesy Call by H.E. Major General (Rtd) Lineo Bernard Poopa, High Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia, 30 January Commissioner of the Kingdom of Lesotho to Malaysia, 27 February

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