We would like to interview Mr Anthem Wong, President of Asian Development Capital Limited and Director, about his impressions of the ICPA Global Executive Protocol training for executives.

What motivated you to select this programme as part of your corporate training?

Over the past year, my work has involved direct interaction with dignitaries such as the Malaysian Royal Family, the Prime Minister, key figures in China, and members of the Thai Royal Family. During these experiences, I came to the realisation that we, as professionals, lacked sufficient understanding of international protocol. That prompted me to search for training programmes, and through Facebook and online platforms, I discovered ICPA.

What was your first impression of the course and its content?

Malaysia, like Singapore and Australia, was a former British colony, and our traditional etiquette has followed the British system. However, post-independence, modern society has become more ambivalent about its value.

I personally was educated in the British tradition, and I wanted to revisit what I had learned—questioning whether it was still appropriate in today’s global context. I saw this course as an opportunity to assess my own behaviour and see whether it aligned with international standards expected of a global citizen.

What did you initially expect from the programme?

I first looked through the instructor’s Facebook page and website. I’ve been living in Japan since I was 19, and naturally, I adopted Japanese etiquette, following the philosophy of “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” But I began to question the differences between Japanese customs and the British norms I grew up with. There were similarities, but also contradictions.

That’s why I was intrigued by ICPA’s emphasis on foundational protocol, applicable anywhere in the world. I believed that by learning proper international protocol, I could conduct myself appropriately and respectfully in any cultural setting.

Did you find this applicable to your business activities?

Absolutely. Although I received a British-style education, I was never taught international protocol as a formal subject. In high-level business or state settings—such as seating arrangements, entry orders, precedence, or interactions with royalty or ministers—I often found myself unsure whether to follow Malaysian conventions or Japanese ones. That hesitation was always in the back of my mind and affected my ability to focus on the interaction itself.

This uncertainty made it clear that proper education in international protocol was necessary for me.

Did you try to research or study this on your own beforehand?

Yes, I collected a lot of information, but found that most of it online was inconsistent or inaccurate. I quickly realised that relying on the internet or general media was not the right approach. The quality of information was too fragmented, especially when it came to diplomatic protocol.

Could you give an example of common misconceptions you discovered?

When I was a student at Keio University, I joined the judo club—Japan’s oldest sports club—and learned many cultural customs, including how to conduct toasts in a business setting. One such “rule” was that you must drink your entire glass of sake during a toast. I had internalised this as a standard of Japanese business etiquette.

However, I began to question whether this behaviour would be appropriate when dining with royalty in Malaysia or Thailand. Upon researching, I found that most etiquette guidance in Japan pertains to domestic business, not international diplomacy. If I applied the same standards to a diplomatic meal, I’d end up intoxicated—something clearly inappropriate for such occasions.

That highlights the need to understand the reasons behind etiquette.

Exactly. It’s not just about doing something because you were told to, but understanding why it’s done and in what context.

For example, I had never been taught that there are differences in seating arrangements between French and British protocol styles. Malaysia follows the British style, but I never realised those distinctions until the course.

Was there a particular part of the course that stood out to you?

I was surprised to learn that what I previously thought was “semi-formal” attire was actually considered casual in international standards. Understanding the purpose of dress codes—creating visual uniformity and facilitating communication—made me realise that these are not arbitrary requirements. They’re acts of respect towards the host and the occasion.

How did you find the instructor’s teaching style?

She was stricter than I expected—but in a good way. That level of rigour created a productive learning environment that kept me focused and motivated. I had expected a gentler approach based on my first impression, but once the class began, I appreciated the serious and professional atmosphere.

Aside from protocol, were there other topics that resonated with you?

Yes, absolutely. The course also covered leadership, psychology, and communication strategies. These insights are highly relevant for business negotiations and diplomatic interactions.

This training went beyond surface-level etiquette. It helped me understand that diplomacy and successful communication require a foundation in psychology, history, and cultural literacy. That’s what makes protocol truly impactful.

Has this course affected your confidence?

Yes. It has broadened my knowledge and given me a deeper sense of self-assurance—both in business and diplomatic contexts. I feel better prepared and more grounded moving forward.

Who would you recommend this course to?

I would strongly recommend it to corporate executives and leadership teams, regardless of company size. Even individuals who think they may never interact with diplomats or royalty should study international protocol—it’s a valuable form of personal and professional development.

Why do you think it’s particularly important for Japanese executives?

Japan is widely seen as a polite and courteous society. But from an international perspective, many Japanese professionals are unaware of global standards. They may know Japanese rules of formality, but not international ones. Given the lack of protocol education in Japan, I believe it’s essential to learn systematically from qualified instructors—rather than rely on hearsay or internet searches.

Are there any final reflections you’d like to share?

Before taking this course, I was often following customs I’d been taught—by my seniors in Malaysia or Japan—without truly understanding them. Through this programme, I’ve been able to distinguish what’s correct, what’s cultural, and what’s contextually appropriate.

I now believe I can serve as a better role model in leadership settings, and communicate with more poise and confidence, even with government leaders or members of royal families abroad.

Dignity and grace.

Yes, precisely.

Excellent.

Do you have any areas for personal improvement moving forward?

Yes. I’d like to continue learning and internalising what I’ve studied—not just as theoretical knowledge, but as something I live out daily. I see this course not as a conclusion, but as a new starting point for lifelong growth.

I believe you are someone who will continue walking the path of success. We truly look forward to your future accomplishments.

Thank you very much.