Syed Nizamuddin Bin Sayed Khassim (2022-23)
Student spotlight details
Syed Nizamuddin co-founded MyDiplomacy, a platform that empowers Malaysian youth to explore global diplomacy and leadership using knowledge gained from his time on the Diplomatic Studies Programme and experience in various diplomatic roles. We asked Syed to share some of his career highlights and his experience of studying here at Oxford (2022/2023).
‘My decision to pursue the Diplomatic Studies Programme (DSP) at the University of Oxford was driven by a desire to deepen my understanding of international relations and contribute more meaningfully to Malaysia’s evolving role in global affairs. Prior to Oxford, I had served as First Secretary at the Malaysian Embassy in Paris, where I was involved in advancing bilateral and multilateral initiatives. The DSP offered the perfect opportunity to complement that experience with rigorous academic training and exposure to cutting-edge diplomatic thinking.
‘Today, I serve with Sarawak Energy Berhad, a vertically integrated energy developer and utility owned by the Government of Sarawak – Malaysia’s largest state, located on the island of Borneo. Sarawak is positioning itself as the “Battery of ASEAN,” leveraging its abundant hydropower resources to power sustainable growth domestically and across Southeast Asia.
‘In this context, Sarawak Energy is more than just an energy company – it is a vehicle for the state’s subnational diplomacy. Our work extends beyond infrastructure; it involves engaging with foreign missions, regional energy bodies, multilateral institutions, and cross-border investors. As part of the stakeholder management and policy team, I support initiatives that link Sarawak to the wider ASEAN energy ecosystem, including efforts to export renewable energy and participate in the development of the ASEAN Power Grid.
‘Beyond my formal responsibilities, I continue to write and advocate on issues related to international affairs and public policy. My work has been published in the New Straits Times and South China Morning Post, and I co-founded MyDiplomacy, a platform that empowers Malaysian youth to explore global diplomacy and leadership.
‘To prospective DSP students: this programme is not just about diplomacy in the traditional sense. It’s about expanding your agency to act in an increasingly multipolar and multi-actor world. Whether you're serving in a foreign ministry, a subnational government, or a state-owned enterprise, the tools you gain here will stay with you for life.’
