By Murniati Abu Karim
Photos by Izwan Azman
BANGI, 30 July 2026 – Malaysia must capitalise on its strengths, international reputation and diplomatic networks to respond effectively to growing global uncertainty, says Tunku Zain Al-’Abidin Ibni Tuanku Muhriz.
The Institute of Malaysian and International Studies (IKMAS) Royal Fellow said Malaysia’s position as a small-to-medium power had shaped its approach to international relations.
“We are often described as a country that is able to punch above its weight when leaders know how to leverage the things that make us special,” he said.
Tunku Zain said the country’s diplomats had played an important role in representing Malaysia through different administrations and changes in foreign policy.
He said Malaysia had produced many respected high commissioners, ambassadors and international officials who had served in senior positions within the United Nations system.
“These individuals have positively shaped Malaysia’s reputation in the world, away from the grandstanding.
“When we ask our main question today, how should Malaysia respond? It’s worth remembering that it’s actually Malaysians who are doing the responding, formulating and executing strategies based on broad government instructions,” he added.
Their contributions, he said, had helped build Malaysia’s reputation and demonstrate the country’s ability to play a meaningful role in international affairs.
Tunku Zain also cautioned that Malaysia’s diplomatic efforts depended on strong institutions and capable leaders who remained committed to their responsibilities.
“All this statecraft rests on functioning institutions with capable leaders sticking to their mission. If those are crippled, they could take generations to rebuild,” he said.
Tunku Zain was delivering a Royal Fellow Lecture titled Navigating Global Uncertainty: How Malaysia Should Respond, organised by IKMAS.
Also present were UKM Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dato’ Dr. Sufian Jusoh, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation Prof. Dr. Ismanizan Ismail and IKMAS director Prof. Dr. Mohd Kamarulnizam Abdullah.
