AMBASSADOR Fenny Nuli’s journey to becoming Malaysia’s first Iban woman Ambassador is marked by resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her country.
Equipped with over two decades of diplomatic experience, she has represented Malaysia in various capacities, from Geneva to Peru, while overcoming numerous challenges.
In this exclusive interview with the Sarawak Tribune, she reflected on her upbringing in Sarawak, her diplomatic career, and the personal and professional growth that has shaped her path.
Fenny also shared her perspectives on the evolving role of Sarawak in global diplomacy and offered advice to aspiring diplomats, particularly from her home state.
Sarawak Tribune: Would you mind sharing a brief background about yourself?
I began my education at Sekolah Rendah Bantuan (SRB) Chung Hua Simanggang (now Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (SJK) Chung Hua), and later continued at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Simanggang until Form 6.
I pursued higher education at the Science University of Malaysia in Penang. For the Administrative and Diplomatic Officer (PTD) role, I underwent a Diploma in Administration and training at the Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations (IDFR) under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (also Wisma Putra).
My first posting was as Second Secretary at the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to the United Nations in Geneva in 2001. After a year, I was cross-posted to Poland, where I served until 2005.
Following my return to Wisma Putra, I was posted to Bangkok as Minister-Counsellor at the Malaysian Embassy.
Later, I served in Belgium as Minister from 2016 to 2019 before being appointed as Ambassador of Malaysia to the Republic of Peru (and accredited to Bolivia, Colombia and Panama) from 2019 to 2023.
After returning to Malaysia, I was offered the Director post at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Regional Office in Sarawak in January 2024.
As the first Iban woman Ambassador, what does this milestone mean to you personally?
When I received my appointment as Ambassador, the officer in the Communication and Public Diplomacy Division of Wisma Putra mentioned there would be many interviews because they wanted to highlight the headline of being the first Iban woman Ambassador.
At first, I didn’t even realise it. I said, “Oh, I’m the first one?”
Pursuing this career wasn’t about breaking barriers—I was just focused on work.
But when it sank in, I felt happy and honoured to receive recognition from the state.
I hope this achievement can inspire not just the Iban community but also Dayak and Sarawakian women in general.
During my batch, there were very few women in this field, especially from Sarawak.
It was largely a maledominated world.
While there are more women in this career now, it’s still not an easy path to reach the top.
Many think being a diplomat is all about wine, dining, and attending receptions, but there’s so much more.
What inspired you to pursue a career in diplomacy, and how did your upbringing influence your path to becoming an ambassador?
I graduated in 1996 during an economic recession, making it difficult to find a job.
I worked as a temporary teacher in Simanggang before becoming a PTD, which required passing several examinations and undergoing rigorous training.
Initially, I needed a stable career to support my family’s economy, as we came from a humble background.
During my PTD interview, I desired to serve in Sarawak, knowing there were federal agencies.
However, I was posted to Wisma Putra, a challenge I accepted. I packed my suitcases, moved to Kuala Lumpur, and started a new life.
My late uncle, Datuk Dublin Unting, encouraged me to pursue a career I was passionate about, which motivated me to embrace the opportunities that came my way.
How has being a diplomat influenced your connection with your family, and what challenges have you faced being away from them?
I’m the youngest of four siblings, with a brother and two older sisters.
My mum often wished I could request a transfer back home, while my late father was always proud of my career.
Leaving after long holidays like Christmas or Gawai was the hardest.
Early in my career, before WhatsApp or video calls, we relied on landlines and calling cards, which made communication challenging.
At first, I considered requesting a transfer back to Sarawak, but then I adapted to life in foreign affairs and grew to enjoy the nomadic lifestyle — three years in Malaysia plus three years abroad.
While this lifestyle suits me as a single person, being apart from my family, especially during emergencies or losses, is still difficult.
For instance, when I was posted to Peru, returning home wasn’t easy due to long travel times and lack of direct flights, which could take up to 24 hours.
How has your career as a diplomat shaped your personal growth and skills?
Actually, I was a shy person.
Whenever visitors came to our house, I would usually hide.
However, my career as a diplomat, especially as an Ambassador—the highest rank in the diplomatic career—has taught me to be more open to interacting with people from different backgrounds.
I used to prefer writing over meeting people face-to-face. I still don’t excel at counter-service.
That’s why I tend to observe and monitor instead.
After being selected as a PTD, we underwent a general course for all Public Administration and Diplomatic Officers.
Following the initial orientation, we were assigned to various federal ministries, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Education to name but a few.
Future diplomats of Malaysia and officers from the Prime Minister’s Department are required to attend a specialised training focused on foreign affairs at the IDFR, which includes selecting a foreign language to learn.
I chose German at the time. Interestingly, my first posting was in Geneva, where most people spoke French, which was more commonly used there.
While Swiss German is spoken in Switzerland, it’s quite different from the German used in Germany.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your role as Sarawak Regional Office Director?
It’s been less than a year since I became Director of the Sarawak Regional Office, and I’m still learning.
The experience is different from my time in the capital, Putrajaya.
I’m truly grateful because I’ve had the opportunity to interact with many foreign Ambassadors during my time here.
I came at the right time, as Sarawak is moving towards becoming a developed state.
Being able to work closely with the Sarawak Premier and communicate with important dignitaries has been very rewarding.
What motivates me is the chance to share my experiences, especially with university students.
I enjoy giving lectures on diplomacy and related topics.
Another aspect that inspires me is being able to work with the relevant agencies in countering the rise in job scams, which Sarawak is now one of the top victims of in Malaysia.
I experienced it in Peru, so I feel strongly about advising and discouraging people here, especially Sarawakians, from falling victim to these scams.
Overall, there’s still much I want to do in Sarawak, and I hope to have more time here.
Returning home after more than 20 years away has been a positive experience.
When I was offered this position, it was a timely opportunity.
The role needed someone senior due to the current status of Sarawak and the developments in neighbouring countries.
I immediately accepted the offer without hesitation.
Please explain how you maintain a healthy work-life balance and share your coping mechanisms for managing stress.
During my time, the concept of ‘work-life balance’ wasn’t widely recognised.
We often worked late nights, weekends, and long hours, especially in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Handling ASEAN issues meant constant meetings and travel, with the office becoming a second home — we even kept extra essentials in our cars.
To manage stress, I am lucky to be able to confide with my siblings and my late Uncle Dublin.
I would rather not tell my mom, as I don’t want to worry her.
Their words of encouragement and moral support, even from afar, make a big difference.
Most importantly, I turn to God, often saying, “Let Your will be done,” to find peace.
Taking a pause helps — whether it’s sleeping, watching a movie, or reading light material to clear my mind. In emergencies, it’s crucial to step back and think clearly.
Staying calm under pressure is an essential skill for diplomats.
As an Ambassador, you have likely encountered various cultures. How has interacting with different cultures shaped your perspective on diplomacy?
Diplomats must grasp the nuances of local cultures overseas.
In regions like Asia, it is crucial to align with their communication styles instead of enforcing Western or American directness.
I observe and learn about the local culture while staying true to my beliefs.
Respecting other cultures is crucial, and I enjoy mixing with the locals. This includes experiencing their delicacies and drinks—an important part of a diplomat’s role.
At the same time, I use these opportunities to promote Malaysian culture and delicacies. During the COVID lockdown, I honed my cooking skills.
In Peru, I discovered their ‘ceviche’ is similar to Sarawak’s ‘umai.’ I even demonstrated a Sarawak twist on ceviche using local Peruvian ingredients.
Additionally, I showcased Malaysian dishes like ‘roti jala’ and chicken curry at local universities and culinary institutes, blending cultural exchange with diplomacy.
Can you tell us about a memorable experience or interaction you had during one of your diplomatic postings that left a lasting impact on you?
I recall being a young officer sent to Poland, covering Ukraine.
I was tasked with preparing for our then Foreign Minister’s visit and had to go ahead as the advance team—which was just me.
This was around 2001 or 2002.
It was winter, with heavy snow.
I flew to Kyiv and met a Ukrainian representative.
I planned to fly to Simferopol in the Crimea State Autonomous Region, where many Malaysian students were.
However, the flight from Kyiv to Simferopol was cancelled due to heavy snow in Simferopol.
The only option was a 15-hour bus ride to Simferopol from Kyiv.
I didn’t speak Ukrainian, but I had some help.
The journey was in the middle of winter, and I don’t think the bus had a heater.
When I finally arrived, the students told me, “You’re brave—taking the bus is risky due to the danger of kidnappings.”
Thankfully, nothing happened, and I’m here to share the story. I also experienced political chaos in Bangkok while posted there.
I remember writing reports in the background of shooting sounds almost every night for a few weeks.
While posted in Peru, I also witnessed a few political demonstrations just outside my residence.
However, there were two incidents that I will always remember and cherish despite the challenge.
First – my team and I were able to repatriate our stranded Malaysians in both Bolivia and Peru during the peak of COVID-19 by a humanitarian flight organised by the Malaysian Embassy.
The humanitarian flight also ferried other passengers from different countries.
The second was the experience of rescuing 43 Malaysians who were victims of a job scam.
This incident happened a month before I returned to Malaysia.
There were 16 Sarawakians among the 43 victims.
Those experiences were invaluable.
They taught me to think on my feet and find immediate solutions in challenging situations.
Why is it important for Malaysians, especially students, to register with the Embassy when travelling abroad?
We always tell people that whenever you travel overseas, please, as much as possible, register with the Malaysian Embassies, Malaysian High Commissions, or consulates.
Just drop them an email saying that you’re there for business, the dates you’ll be there, and in case of emergency, provide your next of kin’s contact number.
For example, when you are in a country where earthquakes and tsunamis are common, if something happens, the Embassy can contact you to ensure you’re safe.
This is important because sometimes if you don’t call your family, they might be worried and looking for you.
By registering, we know who is there and can keep track of their safety.
It’s not about spying on anyone, but especially for students, it’s almost like a compulsory check-in with the Embassy so we know they are safe.
Given the current global situation, with wars and natural disasters, the world is not entirely safe. We need to engage more, stay informed, and know where you are for your safety.
Moving forward, what are your career aspirations and thoughts on Malaysia’s role in international relations?
To be honest, in diplomacy, achieving Ambassadorship is the highest point. If I could retire now, I would.
But I still enjoy serving and looking forward to another posting.
If possible, I would also like to train young diplomats.
For Malaysia, I hope we can become a powerful and influential force in the world of diplomacy. We need more recognition from other countries.
Malaysia should continue to play a pivotal role in global diplomacy, the UN, and beyond. I also hope to see more Sarawakians joining the diplomatic service.
And of course, we need to work together to help develop Sarawak.
When I retire, I hope to contribute to Sarawak’s development.
Even abroad, I promote Sarawak and mention it wherever I can.
That’s how I want Malaysia, especially Sarawak, to be known to the world — for all the good things we offer.
What advice would you give to young Malaysians, particularly Sarawakians, aspiring to pursue a career in diplomacy or international relations?
To be a good diplomat, resilience, patience, and strong communication skills are essential.
Negotiations can be lengthy, with results often taking time.
I recall late nights at the UN and Wisma Putra, preparing documents until 3 am.
Being eloquent is vital, and learning a third language like Mandarin is highly beneficial, especially with China’s increasing influence as one of the UN’s official languages.
Resilience is crucial in this demanding and sometimes frustrating career.
Punctuality is important, but so is adaptability—understanding when being too early might inconvenience others. Education and cultural adaptability are also key.
Diplomats often face challenging situations.
For instance, I experienced a chaotic political protest in Bangkok and Peru.
Colleagues have endured evacuations during wars, like a friend in Egypt who had bullets whizzing past his head.
In such scenarios, staying calm and patient is critical.
Resources are often limited, and perfection isn’t always possible.
Diplomats must remain composed and avoid conflict.
People may think diplomats are invincible or immune to danger, but that’s far from reality.
Ultimately, the role is about serving your country, not seeking personal glory.
As I often say, don’t ask what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.
I believe more Sarawakians can excel in this career.
We need more representation from Sarawak in the diplomatic field
