The Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange (MACEE) invites applications for the Fulbright Malaysian Professional Exchange Program for the 2020/2021 academic year (August to June).

It is a 3-6 months program in the United States. The purpose of the grant is to enable mid-career Malaysian professionals in the public or private sectors to broaden their experience through research, lecturing and other professional enrichment programs. These grants are meant for practitioners rather than scholars; administrators, managers of organizations / associations / services, journalist, doctors and lawyers are encouraged to apply.  

Eligibility

Applicants must have the followings: 

1. A Malaysian citizen.
2. A Master’s degree or equivalent professional qualification in the field of the proposed program. For professionals and artists outside academe, recognized professionals standing and substantial professional accomplishment is expected.
3. A detailed statement of proposed activity for research or lecturing at a U.S. institution.
4. A minimum of five years working experience in the related field. Hold a managerial position in a government organization or the private sector and demonstrate a potential for higher responsibilities.
5. Sufficient proficiency in English to carry out project in the United States.
6. Be willing to share knowledge of Malaysia with social, civic and other groups while in the United States.
7. Sound physical and mental health.

Applicants should note that the following conditions affecting review and selection of candidates :

1. Applicants will be considered without regard to race, religion, sex, age and/ or physical impairment.
2. Preference is given to those without recent experience in the United States.
3. Applicants should be representative and responsible citizens who can contribute to a full and fair picture of the culture of Malaysia and thereby contribute to understanding between the people of the United State and Malaysia. You should also demonstrate the cross-cultural sensitivity and flexibility needed to adjust successfully to life in the United States.

Applicants are requested to note some of the most frequent application problems:

1. Lack of an adequate research proposal. This is the single most common weakness of applications and the one that reflects most seriously on the applicant’s prospects for placement. Applicants must have a well-thought-out plan for research that demonstrates knowledge of the field in general, as well as scientific methods for approaching the subject and knowledge of sources of data in the United States.
2. Selection of a proposed host institution without providing rationale or copies of correspondence or not mentioning any preference for affiliation.
3. Lack of knowledge of English or of a plan to acquire a working level of English before beginning the grant.
4. Lack of a curriculum vitae and list of publications.
5. Proposing visits to numerous institutions.
6. Proposing a nonacademic host institution without including a clear justification with sufficient details.

Application Procedure

Deadline: November 15, 2019

The 2020-2021 application is currently live and available to applicants here. 

Supplementary documents to be uploaded online:

1. Letters of invitation from United States institutions;
2. Degree certificates
3. Sabbatical leave letters
4. Passport copy
5. Source of financial support for accompanying dependents.

Shortlisted candidates will be called for interview in November/December 2019.  Final announcement of awards will be made in January 2020.

Source: https://www.macee.org.my/2020-fulbright-malaysian-professional-exchange-program/