The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is strengthening the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR) as a world-class centre for diplomacy training and research after questions were posed in Parliament today about the institution’s credibility in the global arena.
In a reply, the ministry said the move is part of the Foreign Ministry Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which includes strengthening IDFR’s training content, methodologies and use of the latest technology to ensure its programmes remain relevant amid changing global dynamics.
The ministry said IDFR, which was established in 1991 and placed under the Foreign Ministry in 2004, has continued to develop its role as a Centre of Excellence in diplomacy and international relations.
It added that IDFR is also expanding its research functions by conducting studies on current issues affecting Malaysia while increasing academic publications, analysis and scholarly work to support policymaking and strengthen the country’s diplomatic capabilities.
From 2024 until now, IDFR has organised seven Distinguished and Public Lecture series, four forums, three roundtable discussions and seminars, while publishing five books and journals related to diplomacy and international relations.
The ministry said IDFR’s international recognition has grown, with the institute conducting nearly 30 diplomacy and foreign relations training programmes between 2023 and 2025 for government officials from countries including those in the Middle East, ASEAN, Africa and Central Asia.
To date, 25 foreign countries have signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Exchange of Notes with IDFR for training and research cooperation. The ministry said it will continue strengthening IDFR’s role as a capacity-building, research and strategic thinking centre supporting Malaysia’s foreign policy.
