The Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR) successfully conducted the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP): Diplomatic Training Course for International Participants from 24 May to 4 June 2025. A total of 13 diplomatic officers from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cuba, Egypt, India, Kenya, Laos, Morocco, Nepal, Senegal, Tajikistan, and Timor-Leste attended the course in Kuala Lumpur.
Throughout the course, participants had gained valuable insights into Malaysia’s diplomatic approach and practical skills from prominent speakers on modules such as Introduction to Malaysia; Introduction to MTCP; Malaysia’s Foreign Policy; Malaysia’s Bilateral and Multilateral Diplomacy Practices; Malaysia and ASEAN; Role of Public Diplomacy in Foreign Policy; Strategic Leadership and Quality Management; Mastering the Art of Communication Through Traditional and New Media; Case Presentations on Effective Media Communication; International Negotiations; and Protocol Practices and Diplomatic Etiquette.
Beyond the classroom sessions, participants explored Malaysia through a series of curated study visits to administrative centres and significant landmarks in Putrajaya and Kuala Lumpur, such as the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture’s Craft Complex, Batu Caves, KL Tower, the National Monument, Central Market, and a memorable food diplomacy experience at Rebung Restaurant by Dato’ Chef Ismail.
The participants also embarked on a memorable visit to the Historical City of Malacca, led by Ms. Maslina Ngah Mamud, Director of the Centre for Political Studies and Economic Diplomacy, IDFR. During the visit, they were given valuable exposure to the state’s administrative, economic, and social development efforts through insightful briefings and engaging networking sessions with officials from Malacca State Secretary Office. In addition, the participants had the opportunity to explore the Malaysia Heritage Studio, enjoy Peranakan cuisine at the Baba Nyonya Village Restaurant, and visit iconic landmarks such as A Famosa, St. Paul’s Hill, Dutch Square (Red Square), and a scenic river cruise along the Malacca River.
The participants consistently demonstrated commitment and active engagement throughout the sessions, providing positive feedback on the programme. During the last day of the course, they received certificates of participation, signifying the successful conclusion of their training. Present during the ceremony were Her Excellency Mrs. Yadira Ledesma Hernández (Ambassador of Cuba); H.E. Mr. Karim Mohamed Elsadat AbdelKarim AbdelKhalek (Ambassador of Egypt); Mr. Ndiaye Sour Diouf (Charge d’Affaires/Second Counselor of Senegal); Mr Sonemixay Xaysongkham (Deputy Chief of Mission of Lao PDR); Ms Shahanara Monica (Minister of High Commission of Bangladesh) as well as representatives from the embassies of Kenya, Morocco, Senegal, Tajikistan and Timor-Leste to celebrate the participants for completing the course successfully.
Prepared by:
Ms. Hanun Insyirah Ishak and Ms. Aida Yasmin Azhar
Centre for Political Studies and Economic Diplomacy (PSED)
