I was back in Putrajaya last week, visiting the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra) with two classes and a colleague.

It's an awesome building, although I always wonder whether it's a symbolically good idea to have the Foreign Ministry so prominently on top of a hill...



It was good to be introduced to Malaysia's gateway to the outside world. Every state's gateway is a little different, after all.

It's a diplomatic environment, so you learn not only from what is said, but from what is not said and from the way that it is said... You are reminded again of the difference between the academic environment and the policy-oriented one -- and of the vital need to keep linking them.

I really appreciated the hospitality of these extremely busy people, and I'm looking forward to more contact, especially as Malaysia assumes the role of Chair of ASEAN next year.

Lunch was great (the cheese-cake was truly excellent). And the students had a great time taking photos in this august setting.