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ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XXVI October 2025 | Special Issue on Education

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Teaching International Law in Malaysian Law Schools: Benefits and

Concerns

Shahrizal M Zin

Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.903SEDU0685

Received: 02 November 2025; Accepted: 10 November 2025; Published: 22 November 2025

ABSTRACT

Teaching international law is not just an important endeavor; it is essential in our increasingly interconnected

world. This field goes far beyond conventional academic study; it equips law students with critical tools to

tackle global challenges through the lens of international legal principles. By seamlessly integrating domestic

and international legal frameworks, international law enhances core subjects traditionally taught in law

schools, such as constitutional law, criminal law, and contracts. This paper seeks to illuminate both the

profound benefits and pressing concerns associated with the teaching of international law in Malaysian

universities. While underscoring the transformative advantages of imparting this vital knowledge, it also

confronts the tangible challenges prevalent in the Malaysian legal education landscape. Drawing on over a

decade of experience at a leading Malaysian law school, this paper provides valuable insights into the benefits

and concerns of teaching and learning international law. Ultimately, it offers actionable recommendations

designed to elevate international law education and better equip graduates for their pivotal roles in global legal

systems.

Keywords: teaching, learning, international law, benefits, concerns

INTRODUCTION

Teaching international law is not only a rigorous academic endeavor but also a vital one in our increasingly

interconnected world. As global challenges such as climate change, armed conflict, and human rights

violations transcend national borders, equipping law students with the essential tools to understand and address

these issues using international legal principles has never been more critical. International law encompasses a

wide array of complex topics, each requiring meticulous attention and precision throughout the teaching and

learning process (on the role of the international law teacher, see Hilpold and Nesi, 2024). Key areas of study

include the historical evolution of international law, which traces its roots from treaties among states in ancient

civilizations to contemporary instruments such as the United Nations Charter. Additionally, students delve into

the intricacies of treaty law, learning about the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties and how binding

agreements are crafted, interpreted, and enforced. Principles of state sovereignty govern interactions among

states, while jurisdictional limits define the scope of a state’s legal authority. Concepts of diplomatic immunity

and protection illustrate how international law facilitates peaceful relations among nations, whereas the

complexities of state responsibility examine the legal repercussions when states breach their international

obligations. This comprehensive perspective is a hallmark of a well-rounded international law education. It

prepares students not only to tackle real-world challenges but also equips them with the analytical skills and

practical knowledge required for a successful legal career in a globalized environment.

Moreover, in response to the rapid pace of globalization and evolving geopolitical dynamics, issues such as

international humanitarian law, which governs conduct during armed conflicts; human rights advocacy, which

seeks to promote and protect individual freedoms; and legal frameworks governing international environmental

law have gained paramount importance. Trade and economic regulations, as addressed in trade agreements

such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) treaties, further underscore the significance of international legal

studies (see Shaw, 2021, on the comprehensive topics of international law). The expanding breadth and

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)

ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue XXVI October 2025 | Special Issue on Education

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complexity of these issues highlight the urgent need for effective teaching methods, which present unique

challenges for curriculum development and delivery to law students.

This paper aims to underscore both the immense benefits and the significant concerns associated with teaching

international law within Malaysian universities. Starting with an in-depth exploration of the benefits of

teaching international law, the paper will provide a thorough examination of the concerns arising from the

author’s extensive teaching experience at one of Malaysia’s leading law schools. It will conclude with

actionable recommendations aimed at addressing these concerns and enhancing the overall effectiveness of

international law education, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also well-prepared to

navigate the intricate complexities of global legal systems.

Benefits

1. Providing a Well-Rounded Legal Education to Law Students

The syllabus of law schools is meticulously designed to encompass a broad spectrum of domestic law subjects,

which are essential for developing proficient legal practitioners. These subjects are broadly categorized into

public and private law. Public law, which includes foundational areas such as constitutional law and criminal

law, is usually introduced in the first or second year of the law program. This early exposure is crucial as it lays

the groundwork for understanding the state's role and the protection of individual rights. In contrast, private

law subjects, such as contract law, tort law, and company law, are woven throughout the program's curriculum,

allowing students to appreciate the intricacies of legal relationships and transactions.

International law emerges as a pivotal component that bridges domestic legal frameworks with global legal

perspectives, particularly in an era characterized by rapid globalization. After completing the core domestic

law curriculum in the initial two academic years, students encounter international law in their third year. This

progression is instrumental in enriching their overall legal education, particularly within the context of the

Malaysian legal system.

The mandatory inclusion of international law in Malaysian law schools is not merely beneficial but essential,

especially considering the myriad of global challenges, including conflicts, trade dynamics, economic

fluctuations, and environmental concerns. With legal practices now frequently intersecting with international

norms, a profound understanding of international law is imperative for future practitioners in Malaysia. For

instance, issues such as the rise of the Islamic State, the ongoing and complex Palestine-Israel conflict, and the

ever-present threat of terrorism highlight the critical relevance of international legal principles.

Moreover, international law significantly influences global policy-making. By delving into this field, students

gain valuable insights into how the international legal framework shapes national laws and policies. This

understanding is particularly salient for Malaysia, a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations

(ASEAN), which is navigating a landscape where events—such as conflicts in the Middle East, the strategic

transportation of Russian natural gas to Western Europe, and the challenge of piracy in the South China Sea—

carry profound implications for national and regional stability. Numerous international treaties and conventions

regulate various aspects of human activity, including children's rights, human rights, the conduct of warfare,

environmental sustainability, refugee protection, international trade, and investment practices. Each of these

areas has direct repercussions for Malaysia, influencing its legislative measures and international

commitments.

In the 21st century, the legal education of a lawyer must encompass an exhaustive understanding of

international law, as it has become increasingly critical in everyday practice. This comprehensive educational

framework not only equips students with essential knowledge but also prepares them to navigate the

complexities they will encounter in their future careers, whether domestically or internationally. As

globalization permeates the legal landscape, the insights gained from studying international law become

invaluable.

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Thus, it is imperative that law schools integrate international law thoroughly into their curricula. This approach

ensures that students receive a well-rounded and robust legal education, preparing them to meet the challenges

and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. A solid grasp of international law not only enhances students' skills

but also empowers them to adeptly navigate a reality where legal boundaries are perpetually shifting. By

embracing this comprehensive educational strategy, we can cultivate confident, informed legal practitioners

who are equipped to make meaningful contributions in an increasingly interconnected world.

2. Equipping Students with Essential Skills to Navigate Treaties and Their Real-World Implications

In today’s globalized environment, as Malaysia increasingly emerges as a key player in international trade and

investment, comprehending international law transcends mere academic interest—it has become an essential

skill for navigating the complexities of our interconnected world. A pivotal focus of our international law

curriculum is the study of the law of treaties. This area encompasses critical elements such as the formation,

validity, interpretation, and termination of treaties. Malaysia's active participation in significant international

agreements, including the ASEAN Comprehensive Investment Agreement (ACIA) and the Comprehensive and

Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), positions our nation as a beacon of opportunity

in the regional investment landscape. Our dual role as both a capital-importing and exporting country enriches

our students' understanding of Malaysia's prominent global standing, instilling a sense of pride and

responsibility toward their legal education.

The lecture content is meticulously crafted to illuminate the fundamental principles found in international trade

and investment treaties. Through detailed exploration of essential concepts such as 'most-favored nation'

(MFN) provisions, 'national treatment' obligations, the significance of 'fair and equitable treatment' (FET), the

standards for 'full protection and security' (FPS), the intricacies of 'nationalization' and 'expropriation', as well

as 'exceptions' and the 'dispute resolution process,' students gain a comprehensive understanding of treaty

mechanisms. This foundational knowledge empowers our students to effectively interpret treaties, analyze their

intricate provisions, and assess their profound implications for economic growth and development in Malaysia

and beyond.

In the context of today's interconnected world, it is vital that legal education mirrors the economic realities

faced by states engaging with international trade and investment treaties. This urgency highlights the

significance of our students' studies, as they are being prepared to emerge as tomorrow’s leaders in the

evolving landscape of international law and global commerce. Their educational journey is not only important

for their career trajectories but is crucial in shaping the future paradigms of international law and the dynamics

of global trade, positioning them to make meaningful contributions in these spheres.

3. Preparing Students for Global Legal Practice

Delving into international law unveils a compelling range of opportunities for students aspiring to build a

career in international legal practice. In today's interconnected and globalized environment, domestic legal

work increasingly overlaps with various aspects of international law. For law students, possessing a solid

foundation in international law is not just beneficial but essential for securing competitive internships with

prestigious international organizations such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the Permanent Court of

Arbitration (PCA), and the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). These

internships, known for their high level of competition, draw exceptional law students from around the world

and provide invaluable experiences that illuminate the practical applications of international law within key

global institutions.

As local legal markets progressively adapt to accommodate international law firms, contemporary law

graduates have the opportunity to pursue specialized training in international law even while practicing locally.

This adaptability is not merely a theoretical construct; it reflects a tangible reality in the legal profession today.

A comprehensive understanding of international law empowers students to offer well-informed opinion on

investment-related issues—a domain heavily reliant on a nuanced grasp of international investment law and the

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relevant treaties. Such knowledge is vital in delineating the obligations of host states and foreign investors as

outlined in bilateral investment agreements, which govern cross-border transactions.

Furthermore, resolving disputes that involve foreign parties from disparate jurisdictions typically demands

expertise in international commercial arbitration. Traditional litigation within domestic courts often proves

inadequate for handling complex cross-border transactions, where international arbitration offers a more

effective and neutral forum for resolution. Therefore, students equipped with specialized knowledge in

international law significantly enhance their employability when seeking positions in international law firms or

attorney general's offices that focus on international matters.

For those with a keen interest in research, opportunities abound at research centers dedicated to international

law, international economics, or global relations; however, these positions typically require advanced

qualifications, such as postgraduate degrees or significant research experience. In addition, a robust

background in international law can serve as a valuable stepping stone for students aiming to enter the

diplomatic service as junior diplomats, where understanding international norms and treaties is crucial for

effective engagement. Conversely, students lacking insight into international law may encounter restrictive

opportunities within the legal marketplace, often finding themselves at a disadvantage due to their limited

breadth of knowledge.

In conclusion, the evolving legal landscape of the 21st century emphasizes the necessity for future lawyers to

cultivate a strong understanding of international law that complements their domestic legal training.

Consequently, integrating comprehensive international law education into law school curricula is vital for

equipping aspiring legal professionals with the skills and opportunities they require to excel in diverse and

rewarding career paths after graduation. This proactive educational strategy not only bolters their professional

prospects but also enriches the broader legal community, highlighting the indispensable role of international

law education in shaping the modern legal landscape.

4. Join a Global Network of Opportunities

Studying international law equips students with critical insights, advanced knowledge, and unparalleled

opportunities to connect with a robust international legal network spanning both local and global domains.

International law academics, often seasoned professionals in their field, maintain extensive connections with

various organizations and institutions, which significantly help students secure vital internships, memberships,

or career opportunities. For instance, the former dean of the Faculty of Law at Universiti Teknologi MARA

(UiTM), Professor Dr. Rahmat Mohamad, who served as the Secretary-General of the Asian-African Legal

Consultative Organization (AALCO) from 2008 to 2016, established valuable relationships within the

international legal community. As a result, law students from UiTM had the exceptional opportunity to intern

at AALCO in New Delhi, thereby immersing themselves in the intricate practice of international law from an

AsiaAfrica perspective. Such internships provide comprehensive exposure to real-world legal challenges,

enhancing students' practical understanding and setting them apart in a competitive job market.

Moreover, the pathway to joining prestigious international law centers is designed to be user-friendly,

empowering students to actively seize the myriad of opportunities available. For example, students can easily

apply for membership at the Asian Institute of Alternative Dispute Resolution (AIADR) in Kuala Lumpur.

Membership offers access to a plethora of benefits, including participation in short courses on negotiation

strategies, webinars hosted by industry leaders, and moot competitions that sharpen their practical advocacy

skills. For those particularly interested in the field of international dispute resolution, applying for associate

membership with the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) can be invaluable, providing them with access

to a wide range of resources, including comprehensive arbitration lectures, scholarly materials, and networking

opportunities that can catalyze their careers in alternative dispute resolution.

On a regional scale, students are encouraged to participate in the international law workshop hosted by the

Asian Society of International Law (ASIANSIL) during its biennial conference, which attracts a diverse array

of law students from across the Asian continent. Furthermore, the Asian Academy of International Law (AAIL)

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in Hong Kong offers an array of specialized international law courses tailored for both students and academics,

with enrollment details conveniently accessible on their official website. For those with a passion for

international humanitarian law, reaching out to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)—which

has been operational in Kuala Lumpur since 1973—provides further avenues for engagement, such as

contributing to humanitarian projects, supporting families separated by conflicts or migration, and emphasizing

the relevance of humanitarian principles in a global context.

Studying international law transcends the mere acquisition of knowledge; it unlocks a broad spectrum of

opportunities for both personal and professional evolution. Through this field, students gain access to an

expansive global network of accomplished legal practitioners and thought leaders, offering ongoing inspiration

and mentorship that can significantly shape their careers. The unique opportunities afforded to those

specializing in international law distinctly differentiate them from peers pursuing a more conventional

domestic law trajectory. With vast potential for career advancement, personal development, and the

enhancement of soft skills, pursuing international law emerges as a dynamic and rewarding endeavor. As these

students embark on their legal journeys, they not only gain essential academic insights but also tap into an

extensive array of connections and opportunities that are instrumental in elevating their professional

aspirations. The relationships and mentorships forged throughout this process empower them to carve out a

niche within the legal landscape, supporting their ambitions while facilitating substantial personal and

professional growth that positions them ahead of their counterparts focused solely on domestic legal

frameworks.

Concerns

1. Broad Spectrum of Topics with Limited Teaching Time

International law is an incredibly fascinating and diverse field that encompasses an extensive range of topics,

which are fundamental to understanding the dynamics of global relations. It covers traditional legal principles

such as sovereignty over territory, the sources of international law, treaties, jurisdiction, state immunity, and

state responsibility. In recent years, the landscape of international law has expanded significantly, incorporating

specialized areas such as international human rights law, international humanitarian law, international

environmental law, and international trade law. This evolution is largely driven by globalization, a heightened

focus on human rights protections, and the rapid growth of international trade.

Given this broad spectrum of topics, the primary challenge lies in effectively covering them within a syllabus

limited to just 14 weeks. Historically, the study of international law was structured into two parts—Public

International Law 1 and 2—spanning two academic semesters. This traditional framework formed a crucial

component of the third-year law curriculum for students pursuing their LLB degree. By adopting a two-

semester format, the curriculum allowed for an in-depth exploration of contemporary international law topics,

providing academics with ample teaching time while affording students a broader learning experience. The

extended timeframe enabled academics to delve deeply into a variety of subjects, thereby offering students a

rich educational experience that included critical discussion and comprehensive analysis of pertinent issues.

However, following a thorough syllabus review for the LLB program at the Faculty of Law, UiTM, it was

decided to merge the courses Public International Law 1 and 2 into a single unit. This decision stemmed from

careful deliberation over several factors, such as the necessity to streamline the curriculum, the intention of

delivering a more focused learning experience for incoming student cohorts, and the acknowledgment that the

previous dual-semester structure was becoming increasingly difficult to sustain. Although this adjustment

aimed to enhance the learning experience, it resulted in the regrettable exclusion of numerous critical

contemporary topics. Consequently, significant areas such as the legality of the use of force, mechanisms for

the peaceful settlement of disputes, developments in international human rights and humanitarian law, as well

as international environmental and trade law, have been omitted from the current syllabus.

The implications of this change are profound and far-reaching. The current cohort of students now encounters a

far narrower scope of topics in international law compared to their predecessors prior to the syllabus revision.

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This dilution of content significantly limits their ability to grasp and engage with the subject, as the

compressed curriculum primarily emphasizes traditional topics while neglecting vital contemporary issues that

are essential in today’s increasingly interconnected and rapidly changing world. This limitation highlights the

critical necessity of providing students with a comprehensive legal education, a fundamental goal that has been

undermined by the reduction in international law content. Without a robust understanding of both foundational

principles and modern developments, students may struggle to fully appreciate the complexities of

international law and its application to contemporary global challenges.

2. Lack of Local Content in International Law

Books are a vital primary source for teaching international law, offering foundational knowledge and

contextual understanding. However, in the Malaysian context, a significant challenge arises from the severely

limited availability of local reference materials. Currently, there are only two comprehensive texts authored by

Malaysian scholars in the field of international law, creating a notable gap in accessible educational resources

(see the books authored by Jewa, 2012 and Hamid, 2023). This scarcity is largely attributed to Malaysia's

minimal participation in international law-related events and initiatives across various fronts, which stifles the

development of a robust local academic framework. The lack of local reference materials poses a serious

obstacle that necessitates immediate and urgent attention from both the government and academia.

Firstly, Malaysia's track record in ratifying international treaties, particularly those concerning human rights, is

markedly inadequate. While the nation has made commendable progress in trade and investment agreements, it

has shown reluctance in committing to key human rights treaties. Currently, Malaysia recognizes only two

significant human rights treaties: the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Despite calls from human rights

advocates and civil society to ratify further international conventions—such as the Rome Statute of the

International Criminal Court of 1998 and the Convention Against Torture (CAT)—these initiatives frequently

encounter stagnation due to political backlash and a pervasive lack of political will. The government’s focus

has largely shifted to enhancing the domestic economy through foreign direct investment, consequently

relegating human rights considerations to a lower priority in national policy. As a result, while economic

ambitions are pursued, the human rights agenda remains frequently overlooked, impeding Malaysia's global

standing and commitment to international norms.

Secondly, Malaysia's limited engagement with international tribunals, including the ICJ and the World Trade

Organization (WTO), has profound implications for its legal framework and international relations. The

country's preference for resolving disputes through diplomatic avenues rather than through formal litigation

underscores this approach. The notion of a peaceful resolution through negotiation or conciliation is often

celebrated as the 'Asian Way' of addressing legal disputes among nations, reflecting a cultural ethos that

prioritizes relationshipbuilding over adversarial legal proceedings. However, this avoidance of litigation can

diminish Malaysia's influence in shaping international law and limit the country’s ability to contribute to and

learn from global legal developments.

The absence of Malaysian engagement in these critical areas of international law results in local authors facing

considerable obstacles in gathering comprehensive data to produce texts that truly reflect local insights and

contexts. This lack of robust materials for teaching international law in Malaysian law schools highlights the

urgent need for more localized perspectives and resources. Moreover, the prevailing tradition of teaching

international law, which is predominantly influenced by Western concepts and paradigms, often neglects the

incorporation and emphasis on local perspectives. This imbalance accentuates the necessity for a more diverse

and equitable approach to teaching and understanding international law—one that genuinely includes and

values local insights, thereby enriching the academic discourse and practical application of international legal

principles in Malaysia.

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3. Eurocentric Approach to International Law

The influence of Western imperialism, a profound historical force, has significantly shaped the field of

international law, which is predominantly anchored in Eurocentric ideas (Lachs, 1987). The modern framework

of international law that we engage with today can be traced back to pivotal historical events, particularly the

16th-century schism in Europe. Notably, the 1648 Peace Treaty of Westphalia marks a critical juncture in

European history. This treaty concluded the Thirty Years' War—a destructive conflict involving various

factions, including the Holy Roman Empire, Protestant states, and Catholic alliances—and it catalyzed a

fundamental reconfiguration of Europe's political landscape. The treaty's outcomes led to the recognition of

several independent territories, establishing a new order in Europe built on principles of state sovereignty and

noninterference. From this historical context emerged foundational concepts such as the balance of power,

territorial integrity, political independence, and equality among states. These notions became cornerstones of

modern international law, influencing diplomatic interactions and legal frameworks globally. The legacy of

these ideas, rooted in the specific socio-political realities of 17th-century Europe, has left an indelible mark on

the evolution of international law.

Following the dominance of Western powers during and after World War II—periods characterized by the

dismantling of long-standing imperial structures in Asia and Africa—the voices in international law became

increasingly Western-centric. With the establishment of key international institutions like the United Nations

and the prevalent victory of Western ideologies during the Cold War, the global legal curriculum has been

predominantly shaped by Western scholars and their theoretical frameworks. In countries like Malaysia, a

commonwealth nation that adheres to the English common law system, legal education is significantly

influenced by this Western-centric tradition. This includes the heavy reliance on the works of prominent

English scholars and the integration of Western legal principles into the curriculum.

This predominance of Western perspectives in legal education results in the teaching of international law being

largely driven by concepts and principles articulated from Eurocentric viewpoints. Non-Eurocentric

interpretations of international law, particularly those emerging from Third World nations, Asia, or Islamic

legal traditions, often remain marginalized or entirely overlooked (for some historical and modern conceptions

of Islamic views of international law, see Bashir, 2018 and Powell, 2019). This educational imbalance stifles

the development of alternative legal traditions, as the academic focus is predominantly anchored in

conventional Eurocentric jurisprudence.

Consequently, the voices advocating for alternative perspectives in international law are frequently

overshadowed, resulting in Malaysian law students encountering significant limitations in their exposure to

legal traditions that might resonate with their own cultural and regional backgrounds. This Eurocentric bias in

legal education can have a substantial impact on these students, as it constrains their understanding of

international law and undermines their ability to engage with the diverse legal frameworks and traditions that

enrich the global legal landscape. Thus, the need for a more inclusive approach to legal education is

paramount, one that embraces and integrates various cultural and historical perspectives into the broader

discourse of international law.

4. Lack of Practical Experience Among Academics

Malaysian international law academics represent a dedicated and accomplished group of professionals, many

of whom hold prestigious qualifications, including advanced degrees such as LLMs, and PhDs from

worldrenowned universities. Their commitment to the field is evidenced by their extensive publications in

high-impact legal journals, where they contribute valuable insights into international law. However, there

remains a significant opportunity to enrich their educational experience by integrating more substantive

practical experience into their academic pursuits. Real-world insights not only enhance their teaching

methodologies but also equip students with a deeper, more relatable understanding of international law that

transcends theoretical frameworks. This blend of theory and practice is essential in preparing students for the

complexities they will face in real-world legal environments.

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Currently, opportunities for Malaysian academics to work directly as international law counsel or government

advisors are markedly limited. Malaysia’s engagement in key global human rights treaties remains modest; for

instance, while it has ratified the CRC and CEDAW, the remaining human rights treaties are out of sight.

Moreover, the country participates infrequently in international legal forums, rarely appearing before

influential international tribunals such as the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the ICJ, which diminishes

its capacity to influence global legal standards and norms.

Additionally, a significant obstacle persists in the form of the Malaysian government's tendency to rely on

international counsel from foreign law firms for major legal cases, particularly those that attract significant

media attention or involve complex international issues. This practice not only restricts the opportunities for

local legal experts to develop and showcase their skills but also undermines the growth of domestic legal

proficiency in international law. As a result, aspiring legal professionals in Malaysia may find it challenging to

gain relevant experience and recognition on the global stage, thereby limiting the overall advancement of

Malaysia's position in the international legal community.

CONCLUSION

In light of the discussions above, several actionable recommendations can address the identified concerns

regarding the study of international law. Firstly, introducing elective subjects is a significant step that can help

fill the gaps left by recent syllabus revisions. Topics like the use of force, international humanitarian law,

international environmental law, and international trade law could be offered as elective courses for students.

This approach would not only provide academics with additional teaching time to cover these subjects but also

complement the core topics outlined in the revised international law syllabus. Secondly, it is important to

address the lack of local content in international law through a broader ASEAN-focused perspective.

Malaysian academics should promote collaborative teaching efforts by organizing seminars or webinars with

their ASEAN counterparts. This collaboration would enhance the curriculum by incorporating ASEAN-related

international law jurisprudence, benefiting students and contributing to a more comprehensive and regionally

relevant legal education. Thirdly, we must bridge the gap between the Asian or third-world approach to

international law and the Eurocentric perspective by engaging with Asian international law academics. Existing

international law societies, such as ASIANSIL or the Third World Approach to International Law (TWAIL)

(see Anghie, 2023), provide excellent platforms for exploring Asian or third-world themes in international law

through seminars, workshops, conferences, and collaborative research.

Finally, it is crucial to expose local academics to practical international law experience. One innovative

solution is to establish structured internships and exchange programs that connect Malaysian universities with

leading foreign law firms and prestigious international legal institutions. These programs would not only offer

invaluable opportunities for Malaysian academics to gain practical insights into the complexities of

international law across various legal systems but also foster a robust local legal community. By strengthening

the link between academia and practice, we can ultimately benefit the broader legal landscape by producing

more competent and globally aware legal professionals. This hands-on experience is essential, especially

compared to their Western counterparts, who often blend practical experience with academic roles by

participating in high-profile cases or serving as advisors to government agencies.

Moreover, the current emphasis on the theoretical aspects of international law in Malaysian law schools often

overshadows the essential practical components of a well-rounded legal education. Urgent action is needed to

cultivate a balanced legal curriculum that effectively prepares law students for the complexities of their field.

This includes practical training in negotiation, advocacy, and dispute resolution in international contexts, which

is vital for shaping future lawyers equipped with the knowledge and skills to excel in their careers. This

paradigm shift will not only enrich our academic community with a more integrated curriculum but also

empower future lawyers with the capabilities necessary to navigate and make meaningful contributions to the

global legal landscape.

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International Law (Volume 34. No. 1, 2023).

3. Emilia Justyna Powell, Islamic Law and International Law: Peaceful Resolution of Disputes (Oxford

University Press, 2019).

4. Jean-Pierre Gauci and Barrier Sander, Teaching International Law: Reflections on Pedagogical Practice

in Context (Routledge, 2024).

5. Khaled R. Bashir, Islamic International Law: Historical Foundations and Al-Shaybani’s Siyar (Edward

Elgar Publishing, 2018).

6. Malcolm N. Shaw, International Law (Cambridge University Press, 9

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7. Manfred Lachs, The Teacher in International Law: Teachings and Teaching (Martinus Nijhoff

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Edition, 1987).

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Publishing, 2024).

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