East and South East Asia | Strategies for Malaysian think tanks to boost their impact

This article was written by IDEAS as part of the publication of the 2024 On Think Tanks State of the Sector Report. Explore the report and resources here.

Malaysian think tanks are currently navigating a challenging landscape marked by financial constraints and evolving policy complexities. These hurdles, while significant, also present an opportunity for growth. By examining and adopting strategies that have proven successful for think tanks worldwide, Malaysian-based institutions can enhance their impact and effectiveness. 

Global Lessons for Malaysian Think Tanks 

Recent findings from the 2024 OTT Survey reveal that 58% of Malaysian think tanks reported a worsening funding environment, up from 48% the previous year. This trend mirrors a global challenge where think tanks struggle to maintain independence and influence amid changing political climates. 

Download the 2024 Think Tank State of Sector Report

Insights from International Success Stories 

1. Poland’s Centre for Eastern European Studies (CEES) has navigated a politically charged environment by prioritising transparency and building strong local partnerships. This approach has enabled it to address political instability while reinforcing its role in public discourse.
2. Fundación IDEA in Argentina faced economic and political uncertainties due to revamping its communication strategy. To make its research more engaging and accessible, it integrated interactive tools and data visualisations, which expanded its influence in policy debates.

Applying These Lessons in Malaysia 

Malaysian think tanks can draw several key lessons from these global examples: 

1. Embrace Agility and Flexibility: Adaptability is essential. Think tanks need to swiftly adjust their strategies in response to shifting political or economic conditions. At IDEAS, we have successfully navigated these challenges by working closely with both sides of the political divide while maintaining our non-partisanship. This balanced approach allows us to engage with diverse stakeholders and ensure our research remains credible, relevant, and impactful, regardless of political shifts. This flexibility is key to staying effective in a dynamic landscape. 
2. Invest in Communication: Enhancing communication methods is crucial. By incorporating interactive tools, infographics, and compelling storytelling, think tanks can make their research more accessible and impactful, reaching a broader audience and reinforcing their credibility. At IDEAS, we’ve made significant strides in this area, especially by enhancing our social media presence. We’ve increased our use of videos, infographics, and engaging content formats to communicate complex policy issues better. These efforts have not only improved our reach but also strengthened our ability to engage with diverse audiences and make our research more relatable and impactful. 
3. Build Local Partnerships: Developing strong connections with local organisations and community groups creates a resilient support network. These partnerships not only amplify a think tank’s influence but also ensure that their work remains grounded in local realities. One example of this is IDEAS’ My Open Budget Initiative (MyOBI), launched in 2022. MyOBI was created to promote greater accountability and transparency at the state level, particularly around budget documents and information. Through this initiative, we have highlighted where state governments have made the most progress and identified areas for further improvement. By engaging directly with state governments and encouraging the sharing of best practices, IDEAS fosters a collaborative approach to enhancing fiscal transparency across Malaysia. 

Navigating Regulatory Changes 

The introduction of a new regulatory framework for social media platforms in Malaysia, effective January 2025, underscores the increasing complexity of the operating environment. This framework, impacting major platforms like Facebook and TikTok, aims to enhance online safety but has sparked debate about its potential effects on freedom of speech and access to information. 

In this context, think tanks should advocate for a regulatory environment that supports their mission and fosters open dialogue. Public policy should be shaped through respectful and transparent discussions rather than intimidation or legal threats. 

Looking Forward 

Despite the obstacles, Malaysian think tanks have a unique opportunity to redefine their roles and amplify their impact by adopting successful strategies from their global counterparts. By staying proactive, innovative, and connected to both local and international trends, think tanks can enhance their effectiveness and continue to contribute meaningfully to policy discussions. 

While the current environment presents challenges, it also offers an opportunity for Malaysian think tanks to evolve and strengthen their influence. By learning from global success stories and adapting these strategies to the Malaysian context, think tanks can overcome obstacles and enhance their role in shaping policy.