The Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR) successfully conducted the ‘7th Malaysia-Australia Mid-Career Roundtable Discussion’ that took place in Kuala Lumpur from 22 to 24 July 2025. The programme is convened on a rotational basis, with Malaysia, through IDFR, hosting the first in 2009, followed by Australia in 2011. It was subsequently held in Malaysia in 2013 and 2017, and in Australia in 2015 and 2022. The convening of the programme, which aimed to fortify Malaysia-Australia relations, was made more meaningful as 2025 marks the 70th anniversary of Malaysia-Australia’s partnership.
Eighteen (18) government officials representing various ministries and agencies from both countries engaged in critical discussions on a range of issues, including ASEAN-Australia cooperation in addressing the crisis in Myanmar, the South China Sea and maritime security, the challenges of trade wars and steps towards economic integration, the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and digital sovereignty, as well as initiatives to foster space and opportunities for enhancing bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and Australia in order to promote regional stability. The discussions highlighted the importance of advancing cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, the halal industry, and digital infrastructure, as well as empowering humanitarian organisations and prioritising economic development collaboration over military cooperation, alongside several other constructive proposals. The exchange of views between officials from Malaysia and Australia generated ideas that could contribute positively towards the development of the foreign policies of both countries.
In addition to the roundtable discussions, participants deepened their knowledge on foreign policy through lectures by distinguished speakers. These included Mr Azhan Mohamed Yasin, Deputy Director General of ASEAN-Malaysia National Secretariat (AMNS) from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia, who spoke on the topic of Malaysia’s Foreign Policy and ASEAN Priorities; Her Excellency Ms Danielle Heinecke, Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia, who shared on Australia’s Foreign Policy and ASEAN Priorities; Mr Qarrem Kassim, Analyst, Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia, who discussed Trade Wars in the Digital Era, and Ms Aida Safinaz Allias, Senior Director at the Regional & International Relations Division, Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) Malaysia who presented on Economic Diplomacy in a Fragmented World.
Participants were also given the opportunity to explore Malaysia's monetary history and local arts at Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery. On the final day, participants were awarded the certificate of completion by Ms Maslina Ngah Mamud, Director at the Centre for Political Studies and Economic Diplomacy, in recognition of their commitments throughout the 3-day programme.
