List of high commissioners of the United Kingdom to Malaysia facts for kids

Ailsa Terry

The High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Malaysia is the main representative of the UK in Malaysia. This person leads the UK's diplomatic team in the country. Their office is located in the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital city.

The High Commissioner's role is similar to an ambassador. They work to build strong connections and friendships between the United Kingdom and Malaysia. They also help UK citizens living or traveling in Malaysia.

Before 1957, Malaysia was known as Malaya and was part of the British Empire. During that time, the country was managed by officials also called "high commissioners." These earlier high commissioners had a different role, as they were rulers rather than diplomats.

What is a High Commissioner?

A High Commissioner is a special type of diplomat. They are the head of a country's diplomatic mission in another Commonwealth country. The UK and Malaysia are both members of the Commonwealth. This group of nations used to be part of the British Empire.

The High Commissioner's job is to represent their home country. They work to improve relations between the two nations. This includes working on trade, culture, and political matters. They also help their country's citizens who are in Malaysia.

A Look Back: Malaya's Journey to Independence

Malaysia became an independent country in 1957. Before this, it was under British rule. This period is often called decolonisation. After gaining independence, Malaya became a new nation.

In 1963, Malaya joined with other territories to form Malaysia. This was an important step in its history. At this point, the role of the High Commissioner changed. They became a diplomat between two independent nations.

Who Has Served? List of High Commissioners

The High Commissioner position is very important. Many skilled diplomats have held this role over the years. They have all worked to keep good relations between the UK and Malaysia.

High Commissioner to Malaya (1957–1963)

• 1957–1963: Sir Geofroy Tory

High Commissioners to Malaysia (1963–Present)

• 1963–1966: Antony Head, 1st Viscount Head
• 1966–1971: Sir Michael Walker
• 1971–1974: Sir John Johnston
• 1974–1977: Sir Eric Norris
• 1977–1981: Sir Donald Hawley
• 1981–1983: Sir William Bentley
• 1983–1986: David Gillmore
• 1986–1992: Sir Nicholas Spreckley
• 1992–1994: Duncan Slater
• 1994–1998: Sir David Moss
• 1998–2001: Sir Graham Fry
• 2001–2006: Bruce Cleghorn
• 2006–2010: Boyd McCleary
• 2010–2014: Simon Featherstone
• 2014-2019: Victoria Treadell
• 2019–2023: Charles Hay
• 2023–present^[update] : Ailsa Terry

See also

• Malaysia–United Kingdom relations