The “Conflict Management Workshop” conducted on 20 May 2007 at Wawasan Open University was a replication of IAF training by FAN Malaysia, with the co-operation of YMM Central Training Committee and Jalan Kepong branch.
The primary purpose of this workshop is to introduce participants to the concepts of conflict prevention, management and resolution, develop participant’s appreciation of the fundamental causes and conditions of conflicts in Family Level, Organization Level, National Level and International Level, as well as explore the applicability of traditional conflict resolution mechanisms and their effectiveness.
Participants will be exposed to key theories of conflict and concepts of conflict prevention, management and resolution as it relates to Malaysia; learn the key analytical frameworks in understanding conflict and conflict resolution processes, and be exposed to different approaches to prevention, management and resolution of conflicts, as well as understand the role of culture in conflict and its resolution.
The workshop opened with light introduction to FAN Malaysia by its chairman, Ms. Ng Yeen Seen and a survey on the most important conflicts since 1990 and also the expectation of the participants. The facilitator, Gideon Chiong introduced selected levels and instruments of conflict management: Conflict settlement, Conflict resolution and Conflict transformation before breaking into small group to discuss on Mediation and arbitration techniques, Structural reform and peace efforts, Transforming cultural conflict and NGO activities.
After lunch, participants were required to apply the techniques in 4 types of conflicts: Domestic conflicts, Organizational conflicts, National conflicts and International conflicts. Their solutions were presented to the group and being critically evaluated. The workshop ended with a closing speech by the YMM Central Training Committee Chairman, Mr Yong Khai Wah and a certificate presentation by Dr Busarin Dusadeeisariyawong.
The 25 participants were a good mix from youth organization leaders, community association, Tour Guide Association, staffs & members of political party, working adults and students. Views from all level of society were presented on the discussed topics of both local and international issues, whereby they could apply a more structured frame work to analyze and resolve these conflict areas in a more systematic manner.
The knowledge learnt were well accepted and started to spread into other sectors of the society when Representative from the Tour guide Association called to make arrangement with the facilitator to conduct similar course days after the workshop.
