FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KUALA LUMPUR, 14 April 2025 – The Institute of Strategic Analysis and Policy Research (INSAP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Woon King Chai as its new Director, effective immediately.
Woon brings with him over a decade of experience in public policy, strategic communications and stakeholder engagement across the public, private and non- governmental sectors. His wide-ranging expertise is expected to reinforce INSAP’s role as a leading policy think tank in Malaysia, dedicated to shaping sound, evidence- based policy discourse on issues impacting the Malaysian Chinese community and the nation at large.
“We are delighted to welcome King Chai to INSAP,” said Datuk Dr. Pamela Yong, Chairman of INSAP. “He has consistently demonstrated leadership, critical thinking and an ability to navigate complex policy challenges, all of which are crucial in leading INSAP into a new era of relevance and impact.”
Prior to joining INSAP, Woon served as Acting General Manager for the Agribusiness Division at the East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC), where he led the planning and implementation of key agricultural projects aligned with national socio-economic goals. He also held senior roles in the federal government as the former Press Secretary to the Minister of Economic Affairs, and earlier in his career, produced content and reported for international news organisations.
Woon holds a Master’s degree in Political Theory from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) under the Chevening Scholarship, and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with Honours from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) under the Tunku Abdul Rahman Foundation Scholarship.
Commenting on his appointment, Woon said he was honoured to join INSAP at a critical juncture for Malaysia’s future, adding, “In an uncertain and fast-changing world, Malaysia must stay competitive and forward-looking. I look forward to leading INSAP’s efforts in providing bold ideas, sound policy thinking and pragmatic leadership.”
As Director, Woon will spearhead INSAP’s policy research agenda, thought leadership engagements and institutional partnerships. His appointment reflects the organisation’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of leaders who are capable of articulating progressive yet pragmatic solutions to national challenges.