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Recently, students studying Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Relations at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) visited the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Malaysia, as part of a diplomatic engagement.

Accompanied by Mr Muhammad Syahir Md Ali (Lecturer, School of Business at APU), Ms Nurul Hidayah Badrul Ezan (Lecturer, School of Business at APU), and Ms Sitti Zarina Alimuddin (Lecturer, School of Business at APU), the visit was designed to bridge theoretical academic study with the practical realities of public diplomacy, providing students with a deeper understanding of how international relations operate in practice. 

Learning Diplomacy through Experience 

Upon arrival, students were welcomed and briefed on the embassy’s role as the official representative of Russia in Malaysia, responsible for managing diplomatic relations and fostering bilateral cooperation. 

This introduction was followed by a series of formal briefings, during which embassy officials provided an overview of their work across political, economic, and cultural domains, giving students a comprehensive understanding of how diplomatic missions function in practice. 

Students then gained key insights into Russian foreign policy priorities, including perspectives on global cooperation and the growing importance of the Global South. 

Discussions also highlighted Malaysia-Russia relations, with particular emphasis on trade, tourism, and emerging sectors, alongside Russia’s engagement in international platforms such as the United Nations (UN) and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). 

The visit concluded with a session on contemporary global issues, together with an engaging Q&A session rounding off the experience, giving students the opportunity to gain deeper insights into international relations and global affairs. 

Lessons in Diplomacy 

Overall, the visit provided a highly enriching and well-structured learning experience, allowing students to see the practical application of classroom concepts in real-world diplomacy. 

Beyond policies and negotiations, the experience highlighted the importance of mutual respect, dialogue, and relationship-building, reinforcing the value of combining academic knowledge with hands-on exposure to global affairs.