Ambassador Conversations Show: An Interview with H.E Charles Hay

During the conversation with the United Kingdom High Commissioner to Malaysia, His Excellency Charles Hay gives an overview of the UK’s economy today and what are some of the key sectors of growth, including trades and investments both in the UK and Malaysia.

H.E. Mr. Hay speaks of the working relationship with Malaysia’s Ministry of International Trade and Investment (MITI) at a government level and the challenges face by British companies operating here.

In March, the UK Government published the outcome of its year-long integrated review (IR) of foreign policy, defence, security and international development, in which UK pledges to shift its focus towards Indo-Pacific region, where Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab describes as “increasingly the geopolitical centre of the world”.

For years Britain’s place in the world was defined by its membership of the European Union and its relationship with the United States. It was often seen as a bridge between the two. But Brexit changed all that.

So now the government is looking for Britain to play a new global role, His Excellency explains on this shift and the changes in the defense policy.

Furthermore, he also talks about the state of UK-Malaysia diplomatic relations and on whether it has been impacted by the recent leadership change in Malaysia in regards to;

Climate Change partnership
Support for Malaysia’s reform agenda
Defence cooperation

Also, historically, UK and Malaysia have strong ties when it comes to promoting cultural, educational and social understanding. H.E. talks about the importance of these aspects and on whether it has changed over the years.

Listen to the full in-depth conversation below.