Written by Dr Shafina Tantiana Zulkipli
On 21 August 2025, the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) initiated a collaborative partnership with the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR). This strategic collaboration was formed with IDFR, a leading agency under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia (Wisma Putra). IDFR serves as Malaysia’s premier centre for training in diplomacy and international relations, dedicated to enhancing the professionalism of diplomatic officers and preparing future diplomats.
Leading FSSH’s delegation was Dr. Khalid Zanudin, Deputy Dean for Industrial and Community Engagement, who was joined by Dr. Shafina Tantiana, Programme Coordinator for the International Relations and a team of lecturers from the Programme. The courtesy visit to IDFR was met with hospitality and warmth from YBhg. Dato’ Westmoreland Palon, Director of the Competency Enhancement Centre (CEC) of IDFR and his team of officers.
During the discussions, three core areas of collaboration were identified. First, internship opportunities will be created for UNIMAS students, particularly those pursuing International Relations. This initiative will provide students with firsthand exposure to the workings of Malaysia’s diplomatic institutions while equipping them with practical skills and professional networks essential for their future careers.
Second, both parties agreed to co-organize sharing sessions, seminars and training workshops. These events aim to enhance classroom learning by providing insights from experienced diplomats and supporting the continuous professional development of academic staff. Building on the success of the Diplomatic Career Paths (Perkongsian Kerjaya) session in 2024, these initiatives promise more opportunities for dialogue and knowledge exchange between practitioners and academia.
Finally, the partnership will promote research collaboration through joint projects focusing on diplomacy, governance and regional studies, with particular emphasis on East Malaysia and the ASEAN community. These efforts will enrich academic scholarship and strengthen Malaysia’s strategic role in regional and global diplomacy. Both IDFR and FSSH also agreed to renew their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the near future to further strengthen and enhance their collaboration.
The International Relations Program at UNIMAS, a vital component since FSSH’s establishment, is set to thrive under this collaborative partnership, emerging as a beacon of hope for the future of diplomacy and international relations. Both institutions envision a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations to pursue their dreams in the dynamic and captivating field of diplomacy and beyond.
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