Former M'sian diplomat reappointed as Commonwealth Foundation chair

PETALING JAYA: Former diplomat Datuk Sudha Devi KR Vasudevan has been reappointed as the Chair of the Commonwealth Foundation for another term of two years.

Wisma Putra said her new term began on Jan 1, 2023, following support from all 56 member countries of the Commonwealth.

"The reappointment of Sudha Devi as the Chair of the Commonwealth Foundation is a reflection of Malaysia’s significant role and strong commitment in supporting the work of the Foundation, as well as the Commonwealth organisation, as a whole.

"As Chair of the Commonwealth Foundation, Sudha Devi presides over meetings of its Board of Governors; represents the Foundation at intergovernmental meetings and events; and serves as its ambassador in promoting the Foundation’s vision and values," the ministry said in a statement Tuesday (Jan 10).

She was first elected to the position in 2020 through an election held in London and she became the first Asian to be elected as chair of the Foundation since its establishment in 1966.

"The Foundation has undertaken various programmes to support civic voices to influence public discourse on issues such as, among others, gender equality and community service.

"It also offers grants to CSOs of Commonwealth member countries that intend to organise programmes to encourage people’s participation in upholding governance, democracy and human rights", Wisma Putra added.

Sudha Devi had previously held various positions in the Foreign Ministry which include director-general of the Policy Planning and Coordination Department, undersecretary for the East Asia Division and deputy director-general for the Asean Malaysia National Secretariat.

She was also a former envoy to Australia, Brazil, Singapore, Switzerland and Germany.