Overview

The US-ASEAN Business Council is the premier advocacy organization for U.S. multinational corporations operating within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). With offices in Washington, D.C., New York, Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta, Singapore, Manila, and Kuala Lumpur, the Council represents some of the largest U.S. multinationals working in the region. The Council is the only U.S.-based organization recognized in the ASEAN Charter and meets annually with the Digital, Finance, Trade, and Energy Ministers at their annual meetings. The Council's members include more than 180 of the most successful and innovative corporations in the world, including Abbott, AIG, Boeing, BowerGroupAsia, Chubb, Citi, ExxonMobil, Google, IBM, MSD/Merck, Organon, S&P Global, and UL. Combined, these 180+ companies generate over $6 trillion in revenue and employ more than 13 million people worldwide.

The US-ASEAN Business Council believes that a diverse and inclusive workforce drives innovation and creates a culture of respect and understanding. We are committed to fostering an environment where all employees feel valued, respected and supported, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age or background. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply and to bring their unique perspectives to our organization.

Internship Duties and Learning Outcomes

The Council’s Malaysia office is currently accepting applications for the Business and Public Policy Internship. Interns will undertake substantive work, primarily focusing on research and other projects in support of the Council's goals, particularly during Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025. This internship provides enriching opportunities such as access to high-level conferences and events with ASEAN policymakers and business leaders.

The Business and Public Policy Intern will assist Country and Industry Teams in providing forward-looking research and support to the Council's 180+ members. This will include attending meetings, calls, and events during the work week, some of which may extend beyond traditional hours due to coordination with overseas offices. The internship follows a hybrid model, with a combination of in-office and remote work, and requires physical presence in Kuala Lumpur during business missions and program events. An average commitment of 40 hours per week is expected over the 3-6 month duration.

Business and Policy Internship Duties:

• Provide support for the Council’s programs during Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship during 2025.
• Assist Council staff with programming run out of the Malaysia office, including the Annual Malaysia Business Mission and industry-specific Missions in Malaysia.
• Work directly with Malaysia and D.C.-based staff on missions and other Council events preparation.
• Assist in the development of programming such as roundtables, briefings, seminars and workshops that advance the objectives of member companies.
• Monitor major news and policy developments and contribute to the preparation of Council intelligence updates.

Internship Stipend

Interns will be paid a modest monthly stipend.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college in Business Administration, Economics, Development Studies, International Relations, Political Science, or a related field. Undergraduate students are welcome to apply.
• Must be eligible to work legally in Malaysia.
• Knowledge of and experience working with the Malaysian government is a plus.
• Must have strong research skills and be able to learn and absorb quickly.
• Must be organized, detail-oriented and be able to successfully handle multiple tasks at the same time.
• Must be fluent in English with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Malay language is a plus. 

Application Procedure

To apply to the Council’s internship program, please submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample (no more than 2 pages). The cover letter should include information about your dates and time availability and a brief description of your academic and professional goals.

Internship Duration: 3-6 months
Preferred Start Date: January 2, 2025

Application Deadline: November 30, 2024