In an era of complex global turmoil, the most resilient foreign policy is built on human connection and a bold desire to preserve multilateralism and the global rule of law. Since joining Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry in 2015, my career has been shaped by the delicate complexities of human rights and the evolving crises in West Asia. I carried this perspective with me into the sharp winter of Berlin this January 2026. Joining 16 colleagues from across the globe for the 2nd Executive Seminar on 'Diplomatic Skills', I was reminded once again that human interaction is not just a tool of our trade, it is the very bedrock of diplomacy itself. Despite the sharp contrast to Malaysia’s tropical heat, the peaceful rhythm of Berlin’s snow framed a shared experience for our global cohort. Whether from tropical or wintry climates, we represented a true global community whose energy far outshone the freezing temperatures outside.

Our first week focused on public speaking and negotiation skills, where we learned to articulate national positions with clarity and move beyond zero-sum thinking to secure long-term win-win outcomes. The following week bridged geopolitical theory, from EU trade to Middle East security, with practical site visits. Exploring the Bundestag, the German Environment Agency and historic memorials vividly demonstrated how Germany translates its institutional legacy and climate diplomacy into modern, decisive action.

Our final week in Geneva immersed us in multilateral diplomacy at the WMO, WTO, WHO, ICRC, and UNIDIR. Discussions on disarmament and artificial intelligence in defence were particularly resonant, reinforcing the need for diplomatic frameworks to keep pace with evolving technology to ensure global security.

Ultimately, this experience underscored the vital truth that technical skill is secondary to the trust built between individuals. From Berlin’s history to Geneva’s high-stakes policy rooms, I saw that the global rule of law is truly sustained through the strength of human relationships. This journey perfectly illustrated the power of Diplomacy by Networking, where harmonising diverse interests through genuine personal rapport creates a living, resilient multilateralism for the betterment of humankind.

I leave this seminar convinced that our human network is not just a tool for diplomacy, it is the very base of a stable world order. We depart not just as colleagues, but as a reinforced network committed to global peace, a foundation built through the visionary support of our hosts. While our paths will certainly cross again, the foundation of this connection was only possible through the visionary support of the German Government.

On behalf of my colleagues, I express my profound gratitude to the Federal Foreign Office of Germany for the opportunity to take part in this transformative programme. Our special appreciation goes to HE Ambassador (ret’d) Peter Beerwerth for his invaluable wisdom and to Ms Smilla Zierau, Ms Mia Dorothee Schwartz, and the Diplomacy by Networking division for their exceptional dedication and hard work in making this seminar a success.
Thank you.

Sincerely yours,
Nur Atikah binti Anuar