Are you passionate about communications, social impact, digital media, and sustainable development? The Communications and Programmes Internship under the Malaysia-UN SDG Trust Fund offers an exciting opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain practical experience while contributing to projects that support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This internship allows young professionals to work alongside development experts, communication specialists, and programme teams involved in creating meaningful change across communities in Malaysia. It is an excellent opportunity to build professional skills, expand your network, and gain valuable experience within the United Nations system.
About the Malaysia-UN SDG Trust Fund
The Malaysia-UN SDG Trust Fund is a collaborative initiative established by the United Nations in Malaysia and the MySDG Foundation, with support from Malaysia’s Ministry of Finance.
The fund supports projects that improve the lives of vulnerable communities and promote sustainable development across the country. Through partnerships with non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, and development agencies, the fund works to ensure that no community is left behind in Malaysia’s development journey.
To strengthen its communications and programme operations, the Fund Secretariat is seeking motivated interns to support various activities related to public engagement, monitoring, reporting, and stakeholder communications.
Internship Overview
Organization
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Programme
Malaysia-UN SDG Trust Fund
Position
Communications and Programmes Intern
Location
Malaysia
Internship Type
Paid Internship
Monthly Stipend
RM637.50
Eligible Applicants
Students and Recent Graduates
Why This Internship Matters
Many internships focus solely on administrative tasks, but this opportunity provides direct exposure to real development projects that impact communities on the ground.
Interns will have the chance to:
Contribute to Sustainable Development Goals initiatives
Gain practical communication and media experience
Work with development professionals
Learn monitoring and evaluation techniques
Build digital content creation skills
Participate in community-focused programmes
For individuals considering careers in communications, international development, public relations, media, or social impact, this internship can serve as an excellent stepping stone.
Key Responsibilities
Selected interns will support the Fund Secretariat in various communications and programme-related activities.
Content Creation and Social Media
Interns will help create engaging content for online platforms and communication campaigns.
Responsibilities may include:
Writing social media captions
Developing awareness content
Creating simple graphics and visual materials
Supporting digital campaigns
Monitoring online engagement
Event Support and Documentation
The internship also provides opportunities to participate in events and stakeholder engagements.
Tasks may include:
Assisting with event coordination
Managing participant registrations
Capturing photos and short videos
Preparing event summaries and reports
Documenting key discussions and outcomes
Monitoring and Evaluation Support
Interns will contribute to tracking project activities and measuring impact.
This may involve:
Reviewing project reports
Organizing monitoring data
Supporting evaluation exercises
Preparing communication materials based on project outcomes
Research and Programme Support
The role includes research-based assignments designed to strengthen project implementation.
Examples include:
Conducting background research
Reviewing grant applications
Monitoring media coverage
Supporting programme documentation
Assisting with stakeholder mapping
Skills and Qualities UNDP Is Looking For
The ideal candidate should demonstrate enthusiasm for development work and a willingness to learn.
Desired qualities include:
Strong Communication Skills
Applicants should be comfortable writing content and communicating effectively with different audiences.
Creativity
The ability to generate fresh ideas and produce engaging digital content is highly valued.
Initiative and Teamwork
Successful candidates should be able to work independently while also contributing positively to team projects.
Organizational Skills
Attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks are important for this position.
Interest in Social Impact
A genuine commitment to sustainable development and community engagement is essential.
Educational Requirements
Applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria:
Currently in the final year of a bachelor’s degree programme
Graduated from a bachelor’s degree within the last year
Participating in an industrial attachment, placement year, traineeship, or internship programme as part of their studies
Preferred Academic Backgrounds
Although students from all disciplines are welcome to apply, preference may be given to candidates with studies in:
Mass Communication
Journalism
Public Relations
Marketing
Graphic Design
Media Studies
Communications
Digital Media
Related fields are also encouraged to apply.
Language Requirements
Applicants should possess working proficiency in:
English
Bahasa Malaysia
Strong written and verbal communication abilities in both languages will be beneficial.
Technical Skills That Can Strengthen Your Application
Candidates with experience using digital tools may have an advantage.
Useful skills include:
Microsoft Office
Knowledge of:
Excel
PowerPoint
Microsoft Teams
Design Software
Experience with:
Canva
Adobe Creative Suite
Video Editing Tools
Basic knowledge of:
CapCut
Video editing applications
Content production software
Internship Benefits
Beyond the monthly stipend, interns gain valuable professional exposure within an international development environment.
Benefits include:
Hands-on work experience
Professional mentoring
Exposure to UN development initiatives
Networking opportunities
Practical communication and programme management skills
Enhanced employability for future careers
Working Arrangements
The internship follows UNDP internship guidelines.
Important points include:
Interns receive a monthly stipend of RM637.50.
Participants are responsible for accommodation, transportation, and personal expenses.
Medical insurance coverage is required.
Flexible arrangements may be considered for students balancing academic commitments.
The internship does not guarantee future employment with UNDP.
Diversity and Equal Opportunity
UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where individuals from all backgrounds are welcomed and respected.
Applications are encouraged from qualified candidates regardless of nationality, gender, ethnicity, disability status, religion, or social background.
The organization promotes diversity and equal opportunities throughout its recruitment process.
Why You Should Apply
Competition for United Nations internships is often strong because of the unique learning opportunities they provide.
This internship stands out because it combines:
Communications experience
Sustainable development work
Programme management exposure
Real-world impact
International organization experience
For students and graduates looking to build careers in communications, media, public affairs, international development, or social impact sectors, this opportunity offers practical experience that can significantly strengthen a professional profile.
Final Summary
The UNDP Communications and Programmes Internship in Malaysia is more than a temporary work placement. It is an opportunity to contribute to meaningful development initiatives while gaining skills that can shape a successful career.
If you are passionate about storytelling, digital communications, community development, and creating positive social impact, this internship could be the ideal next step in your professional journey.
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