Program Officer

WHY WORK AT THE ASIA FOUNDATION?

You will have the opportunity to contribute to development in Malaysia and, more broadly, to the development, stability, and growth of the dynamic Asian region, with a focus on strengthening entrepreneurship, international development cooperation, and international competitiveness, while providing opportunities and inclusive participation, improving security in vulnerable regions; and engaging next generation of Malaysia to improve skills and resilience to succeed in the new economy. In Malaysia, other Asian countries, and with headquarters, you will work with and learn from dedicated, smart, and accomplished colleagues, program partners, and local leaders. In the process, you will improve your skills and grow as a development professional.

Education and work experience

• Master degree in relevant field
• Minimum 5 years of relevant professional experience implementing activities related to any of the following: managing a range of digital skilling, entrepreneurship support, or other relevant areas. The Program Officer will have external responsibilities, including stakeholder engagement and partner management, as well as internal responsibilities such as workplan and budget management, reporting, and event planning and execution. Working knowledge of research methods would be an advantage.

Skills requirements

• Program & Project Management
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Financial & Compliance Management
• Communication & Coordination

Program Implementation

1. Implement and monitor program activities, including those implemented through partner organizations as well as direct implementation by the Foundation.
2. Identify and engage key stakeholders who are relevant to the programs. Nurture and develop relationships necessary to provide access and credibility on issues of concern to the Foundation.
3. Work with Foundation partners, researchers, and units within the Foundation to obtain and communicate data, research, and information necessary for policymakers to craft credible and effective policies in areas of concern to the Foundation.
4. Plan and arrange for events, workshops, roundtables, and other activities as part of program implementation.
5. Develop and monitor project workplans and ensure project deliverables are completed on-time.
6. Maintain regular contact with government officials and agencies in Malaysia as needed, business sector, civil society organizations, professional organizations, and academic and other local institutions.
7. Draft periodic reports either for the purpose of the Foundation’s internal reporting or for donor’s reporting requirements.
8. Track on-going activities of partners/grantees, consultants and other external service providers, to ensure quality delivery of all program activities and reports, making the most effective and efficient use of program resources.
9. Draft Letters of Grant and Amendments, Letters of Contract, and correspondence related to the programs.
10. Conduct due diligence on subgrantees and subcontractors pursuant to donor conditions and regulations.

Project Administration

1. Develop, monitor, and manage budgets and spending projections as part of project financial management
2. Work with finance and administration units on all logistical, administrative, and financial aspects of program activities and arrangement.
3. Manage program related filing systems both in electronic and hard copy format.
4. Following Foundation policies and practices, ensure that all financial documentation related to project activities are prepared, updated and finalized, including supporting documents.
5. Manage the grant and procurement processes and budget related arrangements related to the implementation of program activities, including drafting Terms of Reference/Scope of Work.

Others

1. Participate in relevant Foundation initiatives and tasks as assigned.
2. Contribute to articles, written materials, and documentation for publication as assigned.
3. Participate in meetings and events with corporate and donor partners, governments, and civil society organizations as assigned
4. Provide support to other on-going programs and activities of the Foundation, as necessary.

HOW TO APPLY

You may apply for this position via JobStreet by submitting your cover letter (expressing your interest) along with your latest resume. Please ensure your application is completed by 21 September 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning 18 September 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.