Current issues, feedback & complaints on public services in Malaysia
Recall of envoy worrying
29Dec2009 The SunTHE recall by Wisma Putra of our permanent representative to the United Nations in Vienna Datuk Mohd Arshad M. Hussain for casting a vote not sanctioned by the government, is a matter of grave concern to the country.
Since the damage to Malaysia’s reputation has already been done, the government must endeavour to contain the damage by assuring the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that this incident was not in accordance with the government’s stand.
The issue here is not that Malaysia’s vote had offended the United States or other western countries in rebuking Iran on its nuclear ambitions, but more importantly how did such a gaffe happen in the first place.
For a layman not familiar with the diplomatic world, I would like to know whether Wisma Putra has a modus operandi in place for its diplomats when crucial votes are taken at the United Nations or any international organisation.
Perhaps it is time for the government to open up the diplomatic ser-vice, particularly for ambassadors and high commissioners, to include direct recruitment from the private sector.
We have many seasoned Malaysians who can effectively represent and articulate the country’s views at the international fora in the best interests of the country.
James Gonzales
Kuala Lumpur
Source: The Sun – December 29, 2009
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Press Watch
December 30th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
For the benefit of laymen such as yourself, there is a modus operandi in place fos such instances. In summary, it puts the responsibility on the envoy to check back with Wisma Putra for the govt stance prior to casting any vote.
It seems that the modus operandi was followed in this case, but the change in govt stance was not communicated to Wisma Putra, and hence to the envoy.
An unfortunate breakdown in communication within Wisma Putra? Most definitely.
But the shameful and embarassing manner that this has been carried out in the press leaves much to be desired. More akin to playground bullying than seasoned diplomacy.