Anas Khan never expected that his diplomatic journey in Jakarta would return him to the classroom. The young diplomat from Pakistan is now one of the recipients of the Diplomat Scholarship Program at MBA FEB UGM Jakarta Campus. Amidst his diplomatic duties, he is deepening his knowledge of business management.
His decision to pursue the MBA program stems from its universal nature, developing a better understanding of business management and the ability to make sound decisions. As a diplomat, he believes the education gained at UGM will serve as valuable capital to bridge business relations between Pakistan and his host country. Anas also hopes to master the business world and adapt quickly to the dynamic changes within the corporate sector.
“As a diplomat, I can use my education to connect businesses in Pakistan with those in my host country. I hope that after graduation, I will be more adept in the business arena and able to adapt swiftly to the dynamic changes in the corporate world,” he stated.
Anas is one of four diplomats awarded the Diplomat Scholarship Program, a new initiative launched by MBA FEB UGM Jakarta Campus in 2025. In the August 2025 intake, four diplomats from Chile, Cambodia, Pakistan, and Papua New Guinea officially enrolled as students in the International Executive MBA (IEMBA) program at the Jakarta Campus. This initiative represents a concrete manifestation of Indonesia’s educational diplomacy and a strategic move to build international networks through academic pathways.
“The Diplomat Scholarship Program provides foreign representatives the opportunity to understand Indonesia more closely, not only through diplomatic rituals but also through the management and business disciplines that are vital in today’s modern era,” explained Prof. Eduardus Tandelilin, Head of the MBA Program at FEB UGM Jakarta Campus.
He says the scholarship is not merely financial support but a long-term investment in strengthening public diplomacy. Studying in the heart of Indonesia’s economy allows diplomats to gain insight into the country’s culture, economic dynamics, and academic strengths.
“As a leading educational institution, MBA FEB UGM Jakarta not only educates professionals but also nurtures an inclusive and globally relevant knowledge ecosystem,” he added.
Alongside Anas is Ray Vicheasophea, a young diplomat from the Embassy of Cambodia. For him, the opportunity to study at the MBA FEB UGM Jakarta is an honor and a challenge.
“I have a great interest in the business world, and this is an excellent opportunity for me to continue learning while still carrying out my diplomatic duties in Jakarta,” said Ray.
Ray believes that the learning experience at UGM, interacting with students from diverse backgrounds and networking with Indonesia’s business community, will be a valuable asset. He is confident that the degree he will earn will contribute to strengthening business cooperation between Cambodia and Indonesia.
“This MBA is not only academically valuable but also something I intend to translate into real practices to foster closer business cooperation between Cambodia and Indonesia,” he added.
The Diplomat Scholarship Program is a new initiative launched by MBA FEB UGM Jakarta in 2025. This initiative represents a concrete manifestation of Indonesia’s educational diplomacy and a strategic move to build international networks through academic pathways.
“The Diplomat Scholarship Program provides foreign representatives the opportunity to understand Indonesia more closely, not only through diplomatic rituals but also through the management and business disciplines that are vital in today’s modern era,” explained Prof. Eduardus Tandelilin, Head of the MBA Program at FEB UGM Jakarta Campus.
He says the scholarship is not merely financial support but a long-term investment in strengthening public diplomacy. Studying in the heart of Indonesia’s economy allows diplomats to gain insight into the country’s culture, economic dynamics, and academic strengths.
“As a leading educational institution, MBA FEB UGM Jakarta not only educates professionals but also nurtures an inclusive and globally relevant knowledge ecosystem,” he added.
Source: Public Relations of MBA FEB UGM
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
Sustainable Development Goals
