Internship - Board and Executive Affairs

About WorldFish  

“WorldFish is a leading international research organization working to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. It collaborates with international, regional, and national partners to co-develop and deliver scientific innovations, evidence for policy, and knowledge to enable equitable and inclusive impact for millions who depend on fish for their livelihoods. As a member of CGIAR, WorldFish contributes to building a food- and nutrition-secure future and restoring natural resources. Headquartered in Penang, Malaysia, with country offices across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, WorldFish strives to create resilient and inclusive food systems for shared prosperity.

About the Position

WorldFish would like to hire an intern who will support the Executive Liaison Officer/Board Secretary in carrying out executive coordination, governance, and administrative responsibilities. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on experience in international governance, board administration, and executive-level coordination in a global research organization.

The successful candidate will:

• Assist in the record-keeping and management of confidential records, databases, and documentation related to governance and executive affairs, ensuring compliance with governance policies and best practices.
• Conduct research and prepare summaries or reports on topics related to governance, executive affairs, and strategic developments relevant to WorldFish.
• Assist in drafting, reviewing, and formatting official documents, including reports, presentations, correspondence, and briefing materials for the Director General’s Office and Board Secretariat.
• Support coordination and communication with internal and external stakeholders on matters related to governance and executive functions.
• Assist in preparing and organizing high-level meetings hosted by the Director General’s Office or Board Secretariat, including preparing agendas, drafting minutes, and coordinating follow-ups.
• Support logistical and administrative tasks, including scheduling, event coordination, and document preparation for the WorldFish Board of Trustees and the Director General’s Office.
• Provide general administrative support to enhance governance operations and executive coordination.
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the Executive Liaison Officer/Board Secretary as and when required.

Requirements

This opportunity will be suitable for you if you have the below skills and qualifications:

• The candidate either will have obtained or is currently working towards obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English (proficiency in other languages is an advantage).
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with document management tools.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Strong research and analytical skills with the ability to summarize complex information clearly.
• Interest in governance, international development, and non-profit management.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment.

Benefits

• This position is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international governance and executive coordination in an international organization working on research for development.
• The intern will also get the chance to interact and collaborate with global experts and leaders in fisheries and aquaculture research.
• A monthly stipend and health insurance will be provided.

Location and Duration

The successful intern will be based at WorldFish Headquarters in Penang, Malaysia. The successful candidate should be available to commence the internship as soon as possible for a duration of up to 06 months. This position is open only to national applicants only. Interviews are expected to be held in March 2026, and only shortlisted candidates will be notified and expected to attend the interview.  

How to Apply

Your application must include:

• A copy of your curriculum vitae,
• A cover letter which addresses key requirements stated above; and
• Contact information of three professional referees who may be contacted if you are short-listed for the position.

To be considered, applications must be submitted by no later than 23:59 (MYT) 15 March 2026.    

The screening will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Due to the high volume of applicants for WorldFish positions, we appreciate all interest, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted. 

 Our Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment 

WorldFish has ten offices across Asia, Africa and the Pacific, with more than 400 staff and 27 nationalities who contribute to a dynamic multicultural work environment. 

WorldFish is committed to promoting a work environment where diversity and inclusion is valued, and we seek to have gender balance in the organization. We also aim to seek balance across other diverse dimensions. 

People in WorldFish are treated equally irrespective of gender, ethnicity/race, national or social origin, disability, religion, political affiliation, age, family size, marital status or any other form of personal identity. 

 We are an equal opportunities employer and strongly encourage qualified women and men from developing nations to apply.