An Analysis Of The Vienna Convention On Diplomatic Relations 1961: A Case Study Of Diplomatic Relations Between Malaysia And North Korea

This research aims to analyse the aftermath of Kim Jong Nam’s assassination on the diplomatic relations between Malaysia and North Korea along with the historical evolution of diplomatic relations between both countries since Malaysia’s independence. Little is known about the nature of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and North Korea especially when public perceptions dictate that both countries barely share any similarities. In understanding the implications of the murder case from the perspective of international law, an analysis on the history of diplomatic relations between Putrajaya and Pyongyang is carried out. A further study is conducted on the factors of which attract Malaysia and North Korea to forge and strengthen their diplomatic relations. Malaysia’s inclusive foreign policy is highlighted via her participation in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in 1970 which promotes peaceful engagement with all countries regardless of their political allegiance, including the Communist-led regime in North Korea. The task of preserving regional safety and bolstering economic prosperity are on top of Putrajaya’s priority list. With the volume of bilateral trade between Malaysia and North Korea steadily increasing and Pyongyang’s continuous provocations with her Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), peaceful engagements with the aim of repairing the damaged diplomatic relations are the best option for both countries. The study encourages both conflicting countries should explore methods beyond the conventional framework of Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961 (VCDR 1961) in order to repair and revive their severed diplomatic relations such as Tracks of Diplomacy in the form of Sports Diplomacy. This research concluded that although the relationship between the two nations was severed, it is crucial for Malaysia to consider reviving and enhancing bilateral relations with North Korea, hence benefiting Putrajaya in outlining Malaysia’s future foreign policy.