The Institute of Strategic & International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia invites applications from suitably qualified Malaysian citizens for the following position(s):
Key responsibilities
- Research focus and activities
- Lead independent research and analyses on foreign policy and the political and socio-economic developments in Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand.
- Lead research initiatives based on the team’s priorities and emerging issues.
- Publications and outputs
- Lead and contribute to the development of research outputs, including policy briefs, op-eds, academic papers and presentations.
- Ensure timely production of research for both national and international publications, as well as internal research projects and policy papers.
- Engage in media outreach, providing expert insight.
- Project management
- Secure and manage research or consultancy projects, including serving as the lead expert, liaising with clients and stakeholders, overseeing teams, coordinating activities and ensuring successful delivery of outputs.
- Lead major events, such as conferences, roundtables, seminars or forums on relevant issues.
- Play a coordinating role in relevant networks to ensure smooth collaboration and event execution.
- Administrative and other responsibilities
- Assist in preparing high-level speeches, lectures and presentations for senior leadership.
- Participate in ISIS Malaysia’s Track-Two diplomacy activities, visits and events with international and regional counterparts, as well as in key regional and national policy dialogues.
- Guide and manage junior staff and interns, supporting capacity building within the team.
- Perform any additional tasks assigned by the team lead and management.
Job requirements
- Academic qualification
- Advanced degree in international relations, politics, security studies, history or a related field from a recognised university.
- Professional/other certifications
- None required.
- Work experience
- 7-9 years of relevant experience, preferably in public policy and research.
- Key/technical competencies
- Strong policy research and writing skills.
- Proven track record of publications in international relations, politics, security, history or public policy, including working papers, policy briefs and newspaper articles.
- Established areas of specialisations or interests in Southeast Asia’s political and socio-economic developments, particularly Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand.
- Excellent written and oral English. Proficiency in other languages, such as Bahasa Malaysia, Bahasa Indonesia, Thai or Tagalog, is a strong advantage.
- Strong communication, public speaking and presentation skills.
- Ability to organise and facilitate policy dialogues and roundtable discussions.
- Capable of working independently and collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams.
- Familiarity with multi-disciplinary approaches, such as economics or political science, and experience with quantitative and qualitative research methods are a plus.
This position is for a fixed term of two years, inclusive of a 6-month probation, and will be considered for renewal at the end of the contract.
Application
Candidates should email the following documents to hr@isis.org.my:
- A cover letter, explaining their suitability for the role in one page.
- A curriculum vitae or resume (with two academic and/or work references), not exceeding three pages.
*This position will remain open until filled and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the expected volume of applications, only those applicants selected for an interview and skill assessment test will receive a reply.
Key responsibilities
- Research focus and activities
- Conduct independent research and analyses on various issues of interest and policy matters related to cyber and technology, and other areas as needed.
- Lead research initiatives based on the team’s priorities and emerging issues.
- Propose and participate in policy-relevant projects.
- Publications and outputs
- Lead and contribute to the development of research outputs, including policy briefs, op-eds, academic papers and presentations.
- Ensure timely production of research for both national and international publications, as well as internal research projects and policy papers.
- Project management
- Propose, lead and manage research or consultancy projects, including serving as the lead expert, liaising with clients and stakeholders, coordinating activities and ensuring timely delivery of outputs.
- Plan and organise major events, such as conferences, roundtables, seminars or forums on economic issues.
- Play a coordinating role in relevant networks to ensure smooth collaboration and event execution.
- Administrative and additional responsibilities
- Assist in preparing high-level speeches, lectures and presentations for senior leadership.
- Participate in ISIS Malaysia’s Track-Two diplomacy activities, visits and events with international and regional counterparts.
- Mentor assigned junior staff and interns, guiding their development and contribution to the team.
- Perform any additional tasks assigned by the team lead and management.
Job requirements
- Academic qualification
- Advanced degree in computer science, information systems, law, international relations, security studies, or a related field from a recognised university.
- Applicants with other academic backgrounds and relevant professional experience are also encouraged to apply.
- Professional/other certifications
- None required.
- Work experience
- 5-7 years of relevant experience, preferably in public policy and research.
- Key/technical competencies
- Strong policy research and writing skills.
- Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methods.
- Existing areas of interest within cyber and technology policy, inclusive of artificial intelligence, semiconductor and cybersecurity.
- Excellent written and oral English, and proficient in written and oral Bahasa Malaysia. Proficiency in other languages is a plus.
- Strong communication, public speaking and presentation skills.
- Ability to organise and facilitate policy dialogues and roundtable discussions.
- Capable of working independently and collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams.
- Ability to apply multi-disciplinary approaches, such as those from social sciences and information technology, is an advantage.
This position is for a fixed term of two years, inclusive of a 6-month probation, and will be considered for renewal at the end of the contract.
Application
Candidates should email the following documents to hr@isis.org.my:
- A cover letter, explaining their suitability for the role in one page.
- A curriculum vitae or resume (with two academic and/or work references), not exceeding three pages.
*This position will remain open until filled and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the expected volume of applications, only those applicants selected for an interview and skill assessment test will receive a reply.
Key responsibilities
- Research focus and activities
- Conduct independent research and analyses on economic policy matters and trends, providing expert insight.
- Lead research initiatives based on the team’s priorities and emerging issues.
- Contribute to institute-wide capacity-building efforts related to using applied research methods for policy analysis.
- Publications and outputs
- Lead and contribute to the development of research outputs, including policy briefs, op-eds, academic papers and presentations.
- Ensure timely production of research for both national and international publications, as well as internal research projects and policy papers.
- Project management
- Propose, lead and manage research or consultancy projects, including serving as the lead expert, liaising with clients and stakeholders, coordinating activities and ensuring timely delivery of outputs.
- Plan and organise major events, such as conferences, roundtables, seminars or forums on economic issues.
- Play a coordinating role in relevant networks to ensure smooth collaboration and event execution.
- Administrative and other responsibilities
- Assist in preparing high-level speeches, lectures and presentations for senior leadership.
- Participate in ISIS Malaysia’s Track-Two diplomacy activities, visits and events with international and regional counterparts.
- Mentor assigned junior staff and interns, guiding their development and contribution to the team.
- Perform any additional tasks assigned by the team lead and management.
Job requirements
- Academic qualification
- Advanced degree in economics or a related field from a recognised university. Coursework in quantitative empirical research methods and/or applied economics is preferred.
- Professional/other certifications
- None required.
- Work experience
- 5-7 years of relevant experience, preferably in public policy and research.
- Key/technical competencies
- Strong policy research and writing skills.
- Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methods, including demonstrated experience with statistical analysis software or languages (e.g. Stata, R, Python).
- Track record of publications related to economics or public policy, including working papers, policy briefs and newspaper articles.
- Established areas of specialisations or interests within economics and public policy.
- Excellent written and oral English, and proficient in written and oral Bahasa Malaysia. Proficiency in other languages is a plus.
- Strong communication, public speaking and presentation skills.
- Ability to organise and facilitate policy dialogues and roundtable discussions.
- Capable of working independently and collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams.
This position is for a fixed term of two years, inclusive of a 6-month probation, and will be considered for renewal at the end of the contract.
Application
Candidates should email the following documents to hr@isis.org.my:
- A cover letter, explaining their suitability for the role in one page.
- A curriculum vitae or resume (with two academic and/or work references), not exceeding three pages.
*This position will remain open until filled and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the expected volume of applications, only those applicants selected for an interview and skill assessment test will receive a reply.
Project Manager
ISIS Malaysia is seeking a proactive and strategic Project Manager to coordinate and oversee research initiatives funded by public and private stakeholders. The role involves aligning projects with institutional goals and research KPIs, managing timelines and budgets, ensuring timely delivery of outputs, and maintaining clear communication with partners. The ideal candidate is highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to provide insights that enhance the relevance, impact and sustainability of our research work.
Key responsibilities
- Project planning and coordination
- Develop comprehensive project plans, timelines and deliverable schedules aligned with research objectives and funder requirements.
- Coordinate research teams across multiple projects, ensuring clarity in roles, outputs and expectations.
- Collaborate with finance, HR, public affairs, communications and admin teams to ensure seamless project execution.
- Monitoring, evaluation and documentation
- Implement systems to monitor project performance against KPIs, milestones and timelines.
- Identify bottlenecks, propose solutions and ensure research outputs are delivered with quality and policy relevance.
- Maintain accurate records of all project documentation, including proposals, contracts, outputs and communications.
- Contribute to institutional memory by documenting best practices, lessons learned and internal knowledge.
- Fund management and reporting
- Track and manage budgets and expenditures across funded research initiatives.
- Ensure timely submission of financial and narrative reports to funders and internal management.
- Stakeholder engagement and communication
- Serve as the liaison between ISIS Malaysia and external partners, funders and stakeholders.
- Facilitate communication to ensure alignment of expectations, timelines and deliverables.
- Support institutional events, workshops and policy dialogues as needed.
- Strategic development and institutional growth
- Provide input into new project proposals and emerging research areas.
- Support management in identifying and pursuing funding opportunities aligned with institutional and policy priorities.
- Other responsibilities
- Perform any other tasks as required by management to support the organisation’s mission.
Job requirements
- Education
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in public policy, political science, international relations, business administration, or a related field.
- Professional/other relevant certification
- Project Management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, Agile) is highly desirable.
- Experience
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in project or programme management, preferably in research, policy, non-profit or think-tank environments.
- Proven track record of managing budgets, stakeholder communication and research output delivery.
- Experience working with or reporting to public or international funders is an advantage.
- Key/technical competencies
- Strong project management, time management and organisational skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Bahasa Malaysia.
- High level of financial and budget literacy.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially PowerPoint, project management tools (e.g. Asana, Trello, MS Project) and Google Workspace.
- Familiarity with research processes and funding models.
- Personal attributes
- Strategic, analytical thinker with strong attention to detail.
- Proactive problem-solver with sound decision-making skills.
- Accountable, professional and guided by high integrity.
- Collaborative and skilled at building productive relationships.
- Adaptable, resourceful and committed to continuous learning.
This position is for a fixed term of two years, inclusive of a 6-month probation, and will be considered for renewal at the end of the contract.
Application
Candidates should email the following documents to hr@isis.org.my:
- A cover letter, explaining their suitability for the role in one page.
- A curriculum vitae or resume (with two academic and/or work references), not exceeding three pages.
*This position will remain open until filled and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the expected volume of applications, only those applicants selected for an interview and skill assessment test will receive a reply.
Compliance & Legal Officer
ISIS Malaysia is seeking a Compliance & Legal Officer to support the implementation and monitoring of institutional compliance frameworks across operations, legal matters and governance. The role involves ensuring adherence to internal policies, regulatory requirements and ethical standards, contributing to a culture of integrity, risk awareness and accountability. This is a great opportunity for individuals passionate about governance, legal administration and organisational best practices.
Key responsibilities
- Policy and regulatory compliance
- Support the development, review and implementation of institutional Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in alignment with current laws and best practices.
- Ensure staff and departmental adherence to internal policies, institutional codes of conduct and applicable government regulations.
- Conduct internal compliance checks and basic audits to monitor policy implementation and procedural integrity.
- Assist in the periodic review and revision of institutional policies to ensure relevance and responsiveness to emerging regulatory changes.
- Legal, risk and data compliance
- Identify legal and operational compliance risks, and recommend preventive or corrective measures.
- Ensure contracts, MoUs, NDAs and other agreements meet legal, ethical and institutional standards.
- Support the implementation and refinement of risk management frameworks, with particular attention to data privacy, reputational integrity, cybersecurity and operational continuity.
- Assist in monitoring institutional practices for alignment with data protection laws (e.g. PDPA) and support responses to potential breaches or risks.
- Operational oversight
- Monitor operational processes (e.g. procurement, claims, reimbursements, budgeting, event logistics) for compliance with internal SOPs, stakeholder requirements and audit standards.
- Maintain oversight of inventory, asset tracking, and related documentation to ensure transparency and accountability.
- Support compliance with project-based contractual obligations, including tracking deliverables, reporting milestones and verifying fund use in line with donor agreements.
- Training and awareness
- Conduct onboarding sessions and periodic briefings for staff on compliance obligations, including data privacy, institutional ethics and SOPs.
- Promote a culture of compliance through awareness initiatives, policy updates and regular internal communications.
- Documentation and reporting
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of compliance-related activities, including internal reviews, audits, findings and investigations.
- Prepare periodic reports for management and the Board of Directors, identifying key risks, areas for improvement and proposed mitigation strategies.
- Research and institutional support
- Ensure research projects comply with stakeholder requirements, internal governance and ethical standards.
- Collaborate with research and operations teams to uphold best practices in data governance, intellectual property rights, open data policies and research integrity.
- Governance support and additional duties
- Assist in the investigation and reporting of policy violations or ethical breaches.
- Provide administrative support to institutional committees or task forces on compliance, risk or governance matters.
- Perform other relevant duties or cross-functional assignments as directed by management.
Job requirements
- Education
- Bachelor’s degree in law, business administration, public policy or related field from a recognised institution; a Master’s degree is an added advantage.
- Professional/other relevant certification
- Certifications in compliance, risk management or internal auditing (e.g. CCEP, CRMP, ISO 37001) are an added advantage.
- Experience
- 1-2 years of relevant experience in compliance, legal administration, auditing or corporate governance.
- Key/technical competencies
- Basic understanding of legal contracts, governance processes and institutional risk management.
- Familiarity with Malaysian regulatory frameworks, procurement procedures and financial compliance.
- Exposure to or interest in SOP development and policy implementation.
- Excellent command of English and Bahasa Malaysia, with the ability to read, interpret and draft documents in both languages.
- Personal attributes
- Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and sound judgment, especially when handling sensitive or confidential matters.
- Good organisational, interpersonal and written / verbal communication skills.
- Proactive and disciplined, with a high level of integrity and a solution-oriented mindset.
- Able to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
This position is for a fixed term of two years, inclusive of a 6-month probation, and will be considered for renewal at the end of the contract.
Application
Candidates should email the following documents to hr@isis.org.my:
- A one-page cover letter explaining their suitability for the role.
- A curriculum vitae or resume (with two academic and/or work references), not exceeding three pages.
*This position will remain open until filled and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the expected volume of applications, only those applicants selected for an interview and skill assessment test will receive a reply.
Website Assistant
ISIS Malaysia is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Web Assistant to support the upkeep and functionality of our website and digital platforms. Working closely with the Web Administrator, the Web Assistant will assist with content uploads, layout edits, minor troubleshooting and visual media production — including podcast editing and short-form videos. If you’re tech-savvy, creative and eager to contribute to a mission-driven organisation, we’d love to hear from you!
Key responsibilities
- Assist in uploading and maintaining website content using CMS (e.g. WordPress).
- Help ensure consistency, accuracy and adherence to branding guidelines across all pages.
- Troubleshoot minor formatting or display issues on the website.
- Assist with basic analytics tracking (e.g. Google Analytics) and compile web traffic reports.
- Assist in the setup and basic editing of podcast and video recordings.
- Collaborate on content calendars and publishing schedules.
- Maintain documentation of updates and version history.
- Support digital needs of other departments, including publication uploads and event microsites.
- Perform any other task as required by management.
Job requirements
- Education
- Diploma or degree in information technology, web development, multimedia design, digital media, or arelated field from a recognised institution.
- Applicants with non-related qualifications but with relevant experience or a strong portfolio are also encouraged to apply.
- Professional/other relevant certification
- Certifications in content management systems (CMS), web design, digital media production or digital marketing are advantageou
- Experience
- 1–2 years of experience in website maintenance, content publishing, or multimedia support.
- Fresh graduates with strong portfolios (e.g. personal websites, edited videos, design work, etc) and/or internship experience in relevant roles will be considered.
- Key/technical competencies
- Basic understanding of HTML and CSS, or website builders (e.g. WordPress).
- Familiarity with digital tools (e.g. Canva, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator) and video editing software (e.g. Premiere Pro).
- Understanding of responsive design, web formatting and SEO best practices.
- Ability to use digital productivity tools (e.g. Google Workspace, Microsoft Office).
- Good command of English and Bahasa Malaysia for editing or proofreading
- Personal attributes
- Strong attention to detail and design sensibility.
- Eagerness to learn new tools and adapt to evolving digital trends.
- Collaborative and responsive team player.
- Organised, time-conscious and able to manage multiple tasks.
- Open to feedback and proactive in seeking clarification or guidance.
This position is for a fixed term of two years, inclusive of a 6-month probation, and will be considered for renewal at the end of the contract.
Application
Candidates should email the following documents to hr@isis.org.my:
- A one-page cover letter explaining their suitability for the role.
- A curriculum vitae or resume (with two academic and/or work references), not exceeding three pages.
- A portfolio showcasing relevant work (e.g. personal websites, edited videos, design samples, or other multimedia projects).
Fresh graduates are encouraged to apply and should include examples from coursework, internships, or personal projects where applicable.
*This position will remain open until filled and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the expected volume of applications, only those applicants selected for an interview and skill assessment test will receive a reply.
Pemandu merangkap Kerani
ISIS Malaysia sedang mencari Pemandu / Kerani yang berdedikasi untuk memastikan kelancaran operasi harian organisasi. Anda akan bertanggungjawab untuk penghantaran staf dan dokumen, penyelenggaraan kenderaan, serta memberikan sokongan pentadbiran dan logistik untuk mesyuarat dan acara.
Lokasi: Kuala Lumpur
Gaji: RM2,800+
Tanggungjawab utama:
- Pemanduan dan penghantaran
- Menghantar staf ke lokasi mesyuarat atau program dengan selamat dan tepat waktu.
- Menghantar surat, dokumen atau barang penting kepada pihak berkaitan.
- Penyelenggaraan kenderaan
- Memastikan kenderaan organisasi sentiasa dalam keadaan bersih dan baik melalui pembasuhan kereta, pemeriksaan berkala dan penyelenggaraan rutin.
- Memperbaharui insurans dan cukai jalan tepat pada masanya.
- Sokongan pentadbiran
- Menyusun dan menyimpan dokumen serta rekod pejabat.
- Mengurus stor dan memastikan peralatan pejabat dalam keadaan teratur.
- Membantu pentadbiran harian seperti penerimaan dan penghantaran surat serta pengurusan barang pos atau kurier.
- Pengurusan mesyuarat dan acara
- Membantu logistik untuk mesyuarat, persidangan dan acara organisasi.
- Membantu menyediakan makanan dan peralatan yang diperlukan.
- Menyambut dan mengurus tetamu di premis organisasi.
- Tugas lain-lain
- Mengangkat dan mengatur barang untuk keperluan pejabat atau acara.
- Melaksanakan tugasan tambahan yang diarahkan oleh pihak pengurusan.
Kelayakan dan kemahiran:
- Warganegara Malaysia, umur 21-35 tahun.
- Minimum kelulusan Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM).
- Lesen memandu kelas B2 dan D dengan rekod bersih.
- Pengalaman dalam peranan pemanduan atau pentadbiran adalah kelebihan.
- Kemahiran komunikasi yang baik dan berpenampilan profesional.
- Keupayaan untuk bekerja secara berdikari dan menyelesaikan tugasan dengan cekap.
- Fizikal yang sihat dan bersedia untuk tugas yang melibatkan pergerakan fizikal.
- Sikap proaktif, beretika tinggi dan mampu mengurus maklumat sulit dengan penuh integriti.
- Kemahiran asas dalam Microsoft Office adalah satu kelebihan.
Permohonan:
- Hantar permohonan ke hr@isis.org.my bersama CV dan dua rujukan.
- Terbuka sehingga diisi. Hanya calon yang disenarai pendek akan dihubungi.
- Jawatan ini adalah untuk tempoh kontrak dua tahun termasuk tempoh percubaan selama 6 bulan. Sambungan kontrak akan dinilai berdasarkan prestasi.
Event Executive
Join our dynamic team as an Event Executive at ISIS Malaysia! In this role, you’ll be at the heart of planning, coordinating and executing a wide range of events — meetings, forums, conferences and more. You’ll work closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and deliver impactful events that promote thought leadership and foster meaningful dialogue. If you’re detail-oriented, passionate about events and ready to contribute to an organisation driving meaningful discussions, we want to hear from you!
Key responsibilities
- Event planning and coordination
- Collaborate with stakeholders to conceptualise event themes, agendas and formats.
- Develop detailed event timelines, checklists and logistical plans.
- Research and identify suitable venues, vendors and suppliers, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality.
- Arrange hotel site inspections and report on space availability.
- Solicit proposals from vendors and complete purchase requisitions.
- Negotiate contracts and agreements with vendors.
- Ensure approved budgets are in place before event execution.
- Coordinate logistics including venue setup, catering, audiovisual requirements and transportation.
- Utilise technology to streamline event organisation processes.
- Maintain organised files and records of all events.
- Marketing and promotion
- Assist in developing marketing materials and utilise various channels for event promotion.
- Work closely with the communications team to ensure consistent messaging and branding.
- Manage marketing efforts for paid events.
- Participant management
- Handle participant registrations, inquiries and RSVPs.
- Maintain an updated database of participants and manage communication leading up to the event.
- Coordinate with sponsors, VIP guests and role players to meet their requirements.
- Arrange travel and accommodation when necessary.
- On-site event management
- Arrange technical meetings with venues and plan event setups.
- Conduct organised team briefings on the day’s schedule.
- Oversee on-site event operations, ensuring smooth execution by coordinating with vendors and colleagues.
- Manage registration desks and address on-the-day issues.
- Troubleshoot logistical or technical challenges during the event.
- Post-event management
- Collect feedback from participants, sponsors and stakeholders.
- Analyse event metrics and prepare post-event reports.
- Use insights to inform future event planning and strategy.
- Communicate areas for improvement to vendors.
- Organise post-event debrief meetings and provide feedback.
- Prepare event summaries and expense reports.
- Follow up on vendor payments.
- Communication and relationship management
- Foster robust communication with stakeholders.
- Demonstrate enthusiasm and patience in stakeholder interactions.
- Maintain positive interpersonal relationships.
- Cultivate interdepartmental relationships.
- Encourage open communication in meetings.
- Utilise email and social media for effective communication.
- Collaborate with team members to achieve shared goals and objectives.
- Perform any other task as required by management.
Job requirements
- Academic qualification
- A degree in event management, hospitality, marketing, communications, or related field from a recognised university. An advanced degree is preferred.
- Applicants with different academic qualifications, accompanied by relevant professional experience, are also encouraged to apply.
- Professional/other relevant certification
- None required.
- Working experiences
- 1-3 years of experience in event planning and management, or a related role, preferably within the non-profit or think-tank sector.
- Key/technical competencies
- Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
- Excellent written and oral English, and proficient in written and oral Bahasa Malaysia. Proficiency in other languages is a plus.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders including colleagues, vendors, sponsors, media, role players and participants.
- Attention to detail and ability to maintain high standards of quality in event execution.
- Proficiency in event management software/tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Flexibility to work irregular hours including evenings and weekends as required by event schedules.
- Creative thinking and problem-solving skills to address challenges effectively in a fast-paced environment.
This position is for a fixed term of two years, inclusive of a 6-month probation, and will be considered for renewal at the end of the contract.
Application
Candidates should email the following documents to hr@isis.org.my:
- A cover letter, explaining their suitability for the role in one page.
- A curriculum vitae or resume (with two academic and/or work references), not exceeding three pages.
*This position will remain open until filled and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the expected volume of applications, only those applicants selected for an interview and skill assessment test will receive a reply.
