JOB OPENINGs
Policy Advocacy Intern (Government Research and Engagement Support)
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Policy Advocacy Intern (Government Research and Engagement Support)
Starting date: Immediately
Duration: 6 months
Hours: 40 hours a week, flexible timing with regular check-ins
Location: On-site (KL) and remote with potential in-person visits to government agencies
Allowance: RM1,000 per month
Deadline to apply: Open until filled
Background:
As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen policy advocacy on marine and coastal issues in Malaysia, Reef Check Malaysia (RCM) is seeking a motivated intern to support our engagement with government agencies, including relevant Members of Parliament (MPs), and State Executive Council Members (EXCOs), particularly those representing coastal constituencies.
Our work focuses on management of marine protected areas (MPAs), and the broader ecosystem and coastal resource management agenda that affect marine health and livelihoods of the communities.
Objective of the Internship:
The intern will support the policy advocacy work in mapping, profiling, and analyzing key decision-makers and institutions at the federal and state levels based on specific portfolios and personal background. This role is essential for building strategic relationships, supporting targeted advocacy, and contributing to the development of a robust database of government andpolitical stakeholders relevant to coastal and marine conservation in Malaysia.
Scope of Work and Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of the Chief Public Policy and Advocacy Officer, the intern will be expected to:
Desktop Research and Data Compilation
1.1. Conduct background research to compile dossiers (or information packs) on:
1.1.1. Key Members of Parliament representing coastal constituencies including those with relevant portfolios
and background.
1.1.2. Relevant State EXCOs and political figures with areas of responsibilities and interest in marine protected
areas, coastal development, fisheries including coastal and marine ecosystems.
1.1.3. Extract information such as political affiliation, policy interests, constituency priorities, parliamentary
speeches, committee memberships, and public and personal positions related to marine issues.
1.1.4. Senior officials from relevant ministries such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MOA),
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NREC), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and
Culture (MOTAC), Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), Ministry of
Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development
(KPWKM) – (list not exhaustive).
1.2. Track changes and updates in ministerial portfolios and EXCO appointments.
Database Development
2.1. Assist in the development and regularly update a digital database of those identified in item 1.
2.2. Organize entries with searchable filters (e.g., by state, ministry, constituency, area of interest).
2.3. Cross-link public statements, media appearances, or legislative proposals with relevant dossiers.
Primary Research and Stakeholder Engagement
3.1. Support the senior management team in scheduling and preparing for meetings or briefings with selected stakeholders.
3.2. Assist in conducting primary research through phone calls, emails, or field visits to obtain missing or updated information.
3.3. Summarize notes and key takeaways from interviews or agency briefings.
Analysis and Reporting
4.1. Support in the analysis of political trends and policymaker engagement strategies.
4.2. Assist in preparing briefs, summaries, or stakeholder maps for internal strategy sessions.
4.3. Flag opportunities for engagement such
Expected Deliverables:
A functional, organized stakeholder database.
Dossiers of key decision makers as described above.
Short bi-weekly research logs and progress updates.
Brief analytical memos (2–3 pages) summarizing political dynamics or stakeholder networks (minimum 2 during internship).
End-of-internship report outlining key findings and recommendations.
Supervision and Support:
The intern will report directly to the Chief Public Policy and Advocacy Officer. Regular mentorship and guidance will be provided to support the intern’s learning and ensure quality outputs.
Required Qualifications and Skills:
Ongoing or completed undergraduate/graduate studies in public policy, political science, marine studies,
environmental management, development studies, or related fields.
Strong research and analytical skills, especially in synthesizing policy or political information.
Familiarity with Malaysian government structure, federal-state dynamics, and coastal state constituencies is an added advantage.
Good command of English and Bahasa Malaysia (written and spoken).
Attention to detail and ability to work independently.
Interest in marine conservation, sustainable development, or governance is a strong advantage.
Interested applicants may send their resume and cover letter to hello@reefcheck.org.my
