The second instalment of the series welcomed Her Excellency Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for the Political-Security Community. The event drew a full house of more than 70 participants, including students, faculty members, and diplomatic representatives. Among the distinguished guests were ambassadors from Belgium and Spain, and officials from the embassies of Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Italy — a testament to the series’ growing recognition within the diplomatic community.

Dato’ Dr Ilango, Dato’ Astanah spoke about the challenges and opportunities of fostering regional security and political cooperation within ASEAN. She also shared personal anecdotes from her diplomatic career, revealing the human side of international relations — from navigating delicate negotiations to building trust across borders.

What stood out most to attendees was the atmosphere of open exchange. The session concluded with a student-led Q&A that allowed for direct engagement, creating a two-way dialogue between future practitioners and seasoned professionals. Students asked probing questions, gaining insights into both policy processes and the values that guide diplomatic work.

The learning extended beyond the main session. A closed-door networking lunch, hosted at Truffles Restaurant by Taylor’s Culinary Institute, offered a more informal setting for continued conversations among invited guests, faculty, and the speaker. It was an opportunity for deeper connection, professional exchange, and relationship-building.

As Taylor’s prepares for future episodes set for September and into 2025, the Distinguished Diplomat Series continues to grow as a signature initiative. It not only enhances the academic experience of International Relations students but also strengthens the university’s broader mission to cultivate globally minded, socially responsible graduates.