Attracted to the idea of a diplomatic career? Or aspiring to work a globletrotting job? You are not alone! Many students, particularly those studying International Relations studies, are hugely attracted to the idea of a diplomatic career. Or, if not in the Foreign Service, a globetrotting job that deals with international political issues, be it peace and security, humanitarian assistance, trade or the countless transnational political issues; from climate change to dealing with cross-border threats. Foreign Service Officers are responsible for managing diplomatic relations with foreign countries on a daily basis, defending Malaysia’s sovereignty, representing Malaysia policies and interest abroad, as well as gathering information about host countries to bolster international relationships.
Students are often curious about the experience required to secure an entry-level position in the Foreign Service. To address this, the UNIMAS International Relations Students Organisations (UIRSO) of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH) hosted a Career Talk on 20th May 2024. The speaker was Datuk Mohamad Sadik Kethergany, a former ambassador, and an Adjunct Professor at FSSH, who has extensive experience in the field of diplomacy. He shared valuable insights into foreign policy and careers in the Civil and Diplomatic Service (PTD). The talk was a resounding success, drawing nearly 100 participants, comprising both students and lecturers from the International Relations programme.
Datuk Mohamad Sadik Kethergany is highly sought after for his invaluable expertise as a former professional diplomat. With a remarkable career spanning several decades, he has served in key positions such as the Malaysian Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran (2009) and Hungary (2014), the Malaysian Consul-General in New York (2004-2008), and as Undersecretary for Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam (2008-2009). He also served in Australia (1994-1996) and Ghana (1997-1999). His first appointment was in 1989 as an Administrative and Diplomatic Officer (PTD) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In 2017, he served as the Director General of the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR) and his last post before retirement was as Malaysia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. At the same time, he also served as Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in London, United Kingdom. Datuk Sadik was appointed as an Adjunct Professor at FSSH UNIMAS since 3rd July 2023.
During the talk, Datuk Sadik shared the diverse challenges and experiences within the Administrative and Diplomatic Service (PTD) career path. These include the application process for the Foreign Service, insights into the Foreign Service Officer examination and effective preparation strategies, the essential background and criteria sought in the selection process, a glimpse into diplomatic experience, the unique advantages of a diplomatic career and the challenges of diplomatic service.
One of the participants, Nur Ain Binti Japar, said that the talk had given her and the other participants a sense of direction in exploring opportunities in foreign service. The fact that the speaker is an experienced Diplomat is an added bonus as he was sharing based on his own vast experience. Another student, Caroline Eve anak Gembar, shared the same sentiment. She highlights how the session had spark her interest in pursuing a career as a PTD. She was very happy with the sharing especially on the tips and guide on how to apply for the position in foreign service.
Dr Shafina Tantiana Zulkipli, the programme co-ordinator for the International Relations programme at FSSH, strongly believe that open discussions about careers such as this one are crucial for guiding the students on the future career paths. She said that career planning is not a solitary pursuit, but instead it is a social process that thrives on support from individuals who possess both the emotional capacity and practical knowledge to guide students effectively. This talk presents an invaluable opportunity for the students to seek guidance from someone experienced in the field of foreign services, and is directly related to their studies.
In his closing remarks, Datuk Sadik delivered an inspiring message to those aspiring to pursue diplomatic careers. He stressed on the importance of determination, adaptability, and courage in seizing opportunities. The two-hour session had a profound impact on students’ perception of the role of PTD, providing them with invaluable insights for a career in foreign service. Additionally, Datuk Sadik emphasised that while the journey to becoming a diplomat may be lengthy, it promises an exciting and rewarding career!
If you are interested to study International Relations at FSSH UNIMAS, do check out our website for further details.
Prepared by Shafina Tantiana binti Zulkipli & Regina Garai
