Weaving New Zealand and Malaysian leadership perspectives
Navigating the intricate landscape of global relations involves more than just diplomatic exchanges; it’s about weaving a tapestry of shared experiences, collaboration and knowledge exchange. EPD Senior Business Development Manager Noah Ghebremichael reflects on the recent Leadership & Enculturation Programme attended by a delegation from Malaysia.
Recently, the Executive and Professional Development (EPD) Team at the University of Auckland Business School found themselves at the centre of this tapestry during the “Leadership & Enculturation Programme: Weaving Aotearoa New Zealand and Malaysia MADANI Perspectives.”
Noah Ghebremichael
Executive and Professional Development (EPD) goes beyond conventional training programmes. The Leadership & Enculturation Programme emerged as a unique platform for nurturing strategic capability and leadership development, bringing together leaders from Malaysia and Aotearoa New Zealand. The carefully woven curriculum explored strategic leadership, cross-cultural understanding, sustainability, organisational culture and system improvement.
Themed “Weaving Aotearoa New Zealand and Malaysia MADANI Perspectives,” our programme reflects a commitment to intertwining the fabrics of these nations. It’s not just about leadership development; it’s an exploration of cultural nuances – acknowledging the significance of kinship, stewardship, and caring for those around us, embodying the University values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and kaitiakitanga.
Malaysia-New Zealand connection
Delving into the profound connections forged during the programme requires understanding the broader context of the relationship between Malaysia and Aotearoa New Zealand. The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlights that for 65 years, the two nations have shared a friendship that extends across trade, education, security and defence, and tourism. Malaysia’s influence in regional and international affairs, witnessed in forums like the UN, APEC, and ASEAN, adds depth to our connection.
The ties in education are particularly noteworthy, with thousands of Malaysians educated or studying in New Zealand, fostering enduring connections that traverse sectors and professions.
Trade stands as a robust foundation for our bilateral relationship, with Malaysia emerging as one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing export markets and the eleventh-largest trading partner. The commitment to economic cooperation is exemplified through four free trade agreements – MNZFTA, AANZFTA, RCEP, and CPTPP.
In the realm of defence and security, Malaysia and New Zealand’s cooperation, marked by the Five-Power Defense Arrangements (FPDA), transcends decades. Both nations contribute to multinational peacekeeping operations, showcasing a shared commitment to global stability.
Looking ahead
Reflecting on the Leadership & Enculturation Programme, we envision a future where the threads woven during these engagements continue to bind our nations. Our leadership and capability development role acts as a conduit for cultural exchange, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
In weaving Aotearoa New Zealand and Malaysia MADANI Perspectives, we strengthen the strategic leadership capabilities of leaders and contribute to the rich tapestry of international relations. The importance of Malaysia to Aotearoa New Zealand goes beyond diplomatic ties; it signifies shared values, mutual respect and the potential for continued growth and collaboration.
As we embark on this interconnected journey, we look forward to further engagements, collaborations, and the ongoing weaving of perspectives.
