CONSUL-generals, consuls and honorary consuls play an important complementary role in developing and enhancing bilateral relations between their represented country and Malaysia, says Yang diPertua Negeri Pulau Pinang, Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.
Speaking at the Consular Conference themed “Diplomacy: Challenges Moving Forward” at G Hotel Gurney on Nov 5, Tun Ahmad Fuzi noted that, while they are not expected to be directly involved in resolving complex bilateral or multilateral issues, the supportive role they can play within their prescribed mandate should not be underestimated.
“In the current age of economic and digital diplomacy, consul generals, consuls, and honorary consuls, leveraging their power of influence, local knowledge, deep understanding of local issues, and extensive personal contacts, can contribute significantly to enhancing bilateral relations with Malaysia, particularly with Penang. This influence extends across various fields, including trade, investment, tourism, culture, education, and science and technology,” Ahmad Fuzi said in his speech.
“I hope all of you will take a proactive approach in the pursuit of your responsibilities, with the degree of seriousness, diligence and hard work expected of them by the governments they represent.”
Ahmad Fuzi also expressed his hope to see them continue their good work, including pursuing fresh initiatives to achieve tangible outcomes beneficial to both sides.
He emphasised that the Penang government is committed to providing the support and cooperation necessary to help them fulfil their obligations and responsibilities.
Understanding the challenges they face, Ahmad Fuzi highlighted the importance of being knowledgeable about the broader geopolitical, geostrategic, and geoeconomic landscape that affects bilateral and multilateral relations globally.
He added that it would be beneficial for them to grasp the significance of various regional conflicts, including those in Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine, and Sudan, as well as issues involving territorial claims in the South China Sea and other conflict zones
Additionally, he underscored the need for awareness of threats such as terrorism, illegal immigration, climate change, global warming, frequent natural disasters like forest fires, floods, and earthquakes, and global socioeconomic inequality, including the challenges in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
He observed a trend among major powers towards nationalist policies, including trade protectionism through tariff hikes and the formation of geostrategic blocs reflecting great power rivalries, coupled with a perceived reluctance to work together in a multilateral spirit for the global community’s greater good.
Ahmad Fuzi also noted a lack of global leadership from superpowers and key nations, with a tendency to prioritise national interests based on “might over right” rather than striving for conflict resolution through negotiation to achieve long-term global peace, stability, and security.
Looking ahead, he remarked that Malaysia, as chair of ASEAN in 2025, will have the opportunity to demonstrate its leadership, intellectual acumen, and diplomatic, communication, and negotiation skills to strengthen bilateral relations, resolve outstanding issues, and foster closer collaboration for enhanced regional integration.
“Malaysia can also play a positive role internationally, contributing to the establishment of a multi-polar global system, guided by the rule of law, that is fair and just in the interests of the broader international community. I hope the country will rise to meet the obligations and commitments placed upon its leadership during this challenging period,” Ahmad Fuzi said.
Also present were Zhou Youbin, consul-general of the People’s Republic of China and chairman of Consular Corps of Penang; Suratchaya Palavongse, acting consul-general of Thailand; Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rafique Karim, honorary consul-general of Pakistan and chairman of Honorary Consular Corps Malaysia; Datuk Shaik Ismail Allaudin, honorary consul of Bangladesh and secretary general of Honorary Consular Corps Malaysia; and Datuk Hamzah Ahmad, Chief Police Officer of Penang.
Story by K.H. Ong