Government Affairs Manager

AMCHAM Malaysia (American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce); Kuala Lumpur; On-site; MYR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

AMCHAM Malaysia is seeking a Government Relations Manager to enhance its advocacy efforts and engage effectively with public policy institutions. This leadership role involves guiding a dedicated team, fostering government relations, and shaping the policy landscape for member companies. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in government affairs and a strong grasp of the Malaysian regulatory environment.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Opportunity for growth into senior leadership

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of experience in government affairs or public policy.
• High proficiency in English and Bahasa Malaysia.
• Experience preparing ministerial briefing documents and policy analyses.

Responsibilities

• Support the Chamber's Government and External Affairs strategy.
• Build relationships with government bodies and stakeholders.
• Manage a small Government Relations team and oversee policy papers.

Skills

Stakeholder Management

Advocacy

Public Policy

Regulatory Strategy

Interpersonal Skills

Analytical Mindset

Education

Degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, or Law

Job description

MANAGER

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

ABOUT THE ROLE

The American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM Malaysia) is seeking a seasoned and proactive Government Relations leader to serve as a bridge between the private sector and public policy institutions. This manager-level role will support and guide the Chamber’s advocacy strategy, strengthen its voice in regulatory and policy discussions, and lead a team that delivers value to member companies by advancing an informed, unified, and effective approach to government engagement.

This is a hands-on leadership opportunity suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can navigate complexity with patience and clarity. The person should be passionate about shaping the policy landscape for businesses in Malaysia, aligning with the Chamber's mission and vision.

This hands-on leadership opportunity is ideal for an individual who thrives in a fast-paced and complex environment, demonstrating patience and clarity. The successful candidate will be passionate about aligning with the Chamber's mission and vision to shape Malaysia's business policy landscape.

Key Responsibilities

Policy Leadership

• Support the design, implementation, and refinement of the Chamber’s Government and External Affairs strategy in collaboration with the CEO and executive leadership.
• Provide policy guidance and ensure alignment of all GR efforts with the Chamber’s advocacy objectives and member priorities.
• Serve as the key review point for major advocacy initiatives, ensuring quality and consistency in line with Chamber standards.

Government Engagement

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with Malaysian federal and state government bodies (e.g., MITI, MOF, Bank Negara, MIDA, MDEC), regulators, embassies, think tanks, and other stakeholders.
• Follow and track developments across governmental entities and business organizations that are relevant to the Chamber’s membership.
• Lead the planning and execution of high-impact engagement strategies across ministries and agencies.
• On occasion, be able to represent the Chamber at select government meetings, policy forums, and briefings.

Member & Committee Support

• Conduct consultations with AMCHAM members to gain a deeper understanding of their business models and regulatory environments.
• Encourage participation in advocacy efforts and facilitate cross-sector collaboration through Committees and Working Groups.
• Analyze proposed legislation and regulatory developments, interpreting implications for member companies and industries.

Public Affairs & Communications

• Supervise and mentor a small GR/Public Affairs team, supporting their development and ensuring integrated teamwork.
• Write and oversee the preparation of position papers, white papers, cabinet reports, and policy updates.
• Provide regular briefings and communication to internal stakeholders and members on political and regulatory trends.

Research & Thought Leadership

• Coordinate research to inform the Chamber’s public policy positions and communications.
• Develop materials and talking points for external representation and public speaking engagements.
• Contribute insight into new business areas where legislation may present opportunities or challenges.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Required:

• Minimum of five years of relevant experience in government affairs, public policy, regulatory strategy, or advocacy.
• Proven experience managing senior-level stakeholder relationships across the public and private sectors.
• Strong understanding of Malaysian government structures, policy development processes, and political environment.
• High proficiency in English and Bahasa Malaysia, written and spoken; translation ability is a plus.
• Experience preparing ministerial briefing documents, white papers, and policy analyses.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and guide junior staff, manage team performance, and work cross-functionally.

Preferred:

• Multi-industry exposure (e.g., manufacturing, tech, healthcare, trade, energy).
• Track record of working in a chamber, trade association, embassy, or corporate / government affairs role.
• An analytical mindset with strong decision-making ability under ambiguity.
• Politically astute and sensitive to the nuances of government engagement.
• Degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, Law, or related field.

Personal Attributes

• Strong interpersonal skills with a confident, professional presence.
• Highly adaptable, diplomatic, and a solutions-oriented team player.
• Passion for purpose-driven work and stakeholder-driven value creation.
• Able to operate with high integrity, confidentiality, and accountability.
• A self-starter with excellent time management and prioritization skills in deadline-driven settings.

Why Join Us?

• Engage with a diverse set of industries and high-level government decision-makers.
• Contribute to shaping Malaysia’s business environment for international firms.
• Be part of a respected and influential organization committed to transparency, growth, and stakeholder advocacy.
• Competitive compensation and opportunity to grow into senior leadership.

APPLICATION PROCESS - Please Read:

1. To apply, send your CV and cover letter to [e-mail].
2. In your cover letter, please answer: “What has motivated you to apply for this role at AmCham Malaysia?”

*** Please note that for those who have responded to the previous advertisement, we have your application on file and will assess your profile and skills accordingly. ***