Cultural Advisor Malaysia

Malaysian Cultural Advisor

This is more than a job, it’s an opportunity to be the cultural bridge that strengthens U.S. partnerships in Malaysia. If you’re ready to use your expertise to make a real impact, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert cultural, historical, political, and linguistic analysis to SOFLE Malaysia.
  

• Translate and interpret between Malay and English (verbatim or summarized), supporting reports, correspondence, and engagements.
  

• Deliver weekly updates on Malaysia’s political, military, economic, and social landscape, with a focus on regional stability and drivers of instability.
  

• Monitor and assess media and social media trends, identifying narratives, actors, and influences impacting Malaysia.
  

• Maintain continuity and relationships with civil society organizations, government officials, NGOs, academia, and U.S. Embassy counterparts.
  

• Schedule and coordinate meetings, exercises, events, and diplomatic submissions (e.g., DipNotes, clearance requests, access requests).
  

• Support SOFLE during rotations, conferences, and training events (JCETs) by ensuring operational continuity.
  

• Provide briefings and orientation to incoming SOFLE members on Malaysian society, politics, and key influencers.
  

• Travel extensively throughout Malaysia (up to 150 days/year) to gather insights, engage with local actors, and support mission requirements.
  

Qualifications 

Required Qualifications

• Fluency in Malay and English, with proven ability to provide professional translation and interpretation.
  

• Demonstrated knowledge of Malaysia’s history, culture, politics, economics, and social dynamics.
  

• Experience working with civil society organizations, government ministries, or international organizations.
  

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain trust across cultures.
  

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and ability to produce professional reports and analysis.
  

• Ability to travel frequently and operate independently in diverse environments.
  

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in International Relations, Area Studies, or Political Science.
  

• Prior experience supporting U.S. Embassy operations, defense attachés, or international NGOs.
  

• Knowledge of marketing, fiscal management, and procurement processes.
  

• Previous work supporting military, diplomatic, or joint operations in Malaysia or Southeast Asia.
  

• Familiarity with ASEAN regional dynamics and security cooperation.