The High Commission of Malaysia in Bangladesh organised a Malaysia-Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Alumni webinar on Thursday.
The webinar was hosted as part of its annual MTCP Alumni gathering under the ambit of the new normal due to the COVID-19 pandemic. T Amir Farid Abu Hasan, Acting High Commissioner of Malaysia, Ali Akbar, Representative of the MTCP Alumni in Bangladesh and officials from the High Commission were present at the event. A brief presentation was given by Mr. Amir Farid entitled “Overview of Malaysia’s Foreign Policy”.
During his opening speech, Ali Akbar mentioned that the experience gained had enriched their knowledge and experience which had proven useful in their own careers. In his 30-minute presentation, Amir explained Malaysia’s foreign policies from independence until today, turning it into one of the most progressive nations in the world.
He further highlighted that with a good foreign and domestic policy, Malaysia will be able to play its role as an influential “middle power” that is friendly to all nationalities.
This is in line with its trajectory of becoming a developed nation with a mature democracy.
He then took the opportunity to thank the government of Bangladesh, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh on the reliable partnership and support extended in ensuring that the MTCP continues to be a success.
The MTCP was initiated at the First Commonwealth Heads of Government and Regional Meeting for Asia Pacific Region in Sydney in February 1978 and officially launched on 7 September 1980 at the 2nd CHOGRM in New Delhi, India.
It was established to signify Malaysia’s commitment to South-South Cooperation, in particular, Technical Cooperation among Developing Countries.
Since 1980, more than 33,000 participants from 144 MTCP countries have benefitted from the various programmes offered under MTCP with more than 800 participants coming from Bangladesh.