The Centre for Languages and Cultural Diplomacy (CLCD) officially organised the “Language for Conflict Management” course from 11 to 13 August 2026 at the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR). The three-day course was designed to enhance participants’ understanding of linguistic communication in high-stakes official and diplomatic environments. It aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills to use language strategically for persuasion, conflict management and the prevention of misunderstandings.
Throughout the course, participants explored the role of language in diplomacy and conflict resolution through topics such as discursive strategies in conflict resolution, tools and techniques in conflict management, active listening and perspectives reframing. Participants were also introduced to practical approaches for managing difficult conversations and addressing conflict constructively.
The course included practical activities that strengthened participants’ communication and problem-solving skills. Participants engaged with conflict scenarios, explored cross-cultural conflicts and took part in a mediation simulation exercise. The course concluded with a mediation debrief and certificate presentation ceremony.
The government officers who participated in this course came from various ministries and agencies, including the Malaysian Nuclear Agency, Ministry of Education Malaysia, Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA), Marine Department of Malaysia, Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia, Department of Museums Malaysia, Sabah State Attorney-General's Chambers, Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Kota Bharu Labour Office, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Ministry of Digital, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Library of Malaysia, Malaysian Examinations Board, Forestry Department of Peninsular Malaysia, Ministry of Plantation and Commodities and Farmers’ Organisation Authority Malaysia.
Overall, the course equipped participants with practical linguistic strategies and communication techniques to manage conflict more effectively. By strengthening active listening skills, framing issues constructively, and communicating clearly and tactfully, participants will be better prepared to handle complex and challenging official and professional interactions within their respective ministries and agencies.
