Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP): Diplomatic Training Course For The Diplomats From The Pacific Island Forum Member Countries

The Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP): Diplomatic Training Course for the Diplomats from the Pacific Island Forum Member Countries was successfully organized from 26 – 30 August 2013. Seven (7) amazing officers namely from Cook Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Vanuatu participated in the training programme. The programme is another milestone achieved because this is the first time IDFR is entrusted by the MTCP to conduct the diplomatic training course for diplomats from the Pacific Island Forum Member Countries.

The five-day programme focused on the topics related to diplomacy and international relations. The main objectives were to provide an overview of functions and responsibilities of a diplomat; develop knowledge and understanding on current international issues and to enhance and strengthen the participants’ diplomatic skills and knowledge.

The participants were exposed to topic in the areas of the Cross Cultural Awareness and multiculturalism, International Humanitarian Issues, Media Skill, Government Program and Economic Transformation Program, Global Movement of Moderates and Blue Ocean Strategy. Most of the participants participated positively and made substantive interaction with the selected distinguished speakers. Apart from that the participants visited Parliament Malaysia, Malaysia Tourism Centre, Handicraft Malaysia and Petronas.

The programme also included a one-day visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia, in which the participants were briefed on Malaysia and the Pacific Island Forum Member Countries, Malaysia Technical Cooperation Program, ASEAN and Regional Integration.

The programme was concluded with a closing dinner and certificate presentation graced by YBhg. Dato’ Zulkifli Yaacob, Director of Corporate and Management Services of IDFR. Overall, the one-week course has benefited all of the participants in gaining the valuable knowledge, new skills and building network which will lead them to be a prominent diplomat in the future.