Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR) organised an enlightening chapter of the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP): International Negotiation Course. From 4 June to 13 June 2024, this intensive course was meticulously crafted to elevate the negotiation acumen of its international participants.
Conducted by IDFR’s Centre for Leadership, Negotiation, and Public Diplomacy (LNPD), the course brought together sixteen dynamic officers from Azerbaijan, Comoros, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Lao PDR, Madagascar, Mongolia, Morocco, Oman, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Malaysia. This rich tapestry of international perspectives deepened the dialogues and reinforced the course's mission of promoting global understanding and cooperation.
Participants were fully immersed in a practical curriculum designed to sharpen their negotiation prowess, covering vital topics such as Conflict Resolution, Advanced Negotiation Strategies, and Cross-Cultural Negotiation Competence. Through hands-on negotiation simulations, participants not only honed their skills but also received constructive feedback, ensuring their readiness to tackle high-stakes diplomatic and economic discussions. The emphasis on ethical considerations instilled a strong sense of professionalism and integrity, making each participant feel confident and prepared for real-world negotiations.
The course also placed a strong emphasis on critical thinking and decision-making skills, providing significant networking opportunities that pave the way for career advancement. The access to ongoing resources further supports participants’ continuous learning and professional growth, instilling a sense of hope and motivation, and preparing them for the complexities of international negotiations.
True to IDFR’s commitment to experiential learning, the programme included enriching study visits to iconic sites such as the Craft Complex, the Malaysian Tourism Centre (MaTIC), Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman, KL Tower, and historical landmarks in Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi. These excursions offered participants a deeper appreciation of Malaysia's cultural and historical tapestry, fostering a more holistic learning experience.
The programme culminated in a Closing and Certificate Presentation Ceremony on 13 June 2024. Dato’ Agus Salim bin Yusof, Director of LNPD, delivered inspiring Closing Remarks before presenting certificates of attendance to the participants alongside. The ceremony’s highlight was a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Laith bin Saleh Al Ajmi from Oman, representing the class. The best participant award was given to Ms Modester Achieng Odhiambo from Kenya. The evening concluded with a “Dikir Puteri” performance, showcasing the participants’ newfound camaraderie and appreciation for cultural exchange.
