YSD Cambridge Programme in Public Policy 2011 GUIDELINES FOR PREPARING A RESEARCH PROPOSAL The research proposal is a major

r vehicle for candidates to communicate with Yayasan Sime Darby (YSD) and the respective organisations on the area of research interest. We expect candidates to be able to demonstrate some understanding of the existing knowledge in the chosen area of research and show how you plan to carry out the research. We are committed to assist successful candidates to drive significant changes in formulating good public policies for the nations benefit via completed policy research. RESEARCH REQUIREMENTS The research proposal must meet the following requirements: The research topic must be relevant in improving policy development and implementation AND drive significant public policy changes in the respective organizations. A full proposal must be prepared by candidates to clarify scope of research works to be undertaken at the preliminary stage in Malaysia, as well as the period in University of Cambridge, United Kingdom. Candidates must identify a SUB-SECTION of the full proposal for completion whilst in Cambridge. This may be an area that is best carried out in the UK rather than in Malaysia and intellectually challenged for University of Cambridge to assist. The boundaries of the study, especially areas that will not be covered, should be clearly stated. Having chosen the focus of the proposed research, a concise statement should be prepared and submitted to Yayasan Sime Darby.

FORMAT OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL The following sections should be addressed in your proposal: Research Topic This should be an introductory section, in which you will discuss the general field of the subject area and to explain the scope of study in which you will focus. You should also give some explanations as to why it is important to do this research and why it is of interest to your organisation. A provisional title must be identified in this section. Problem Statement In this section, you must be able to provide a concise description of the issues that need to be addressed relating to the research topic.

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YSD Cambridge Programme in Public Policy 2011 Research Questions In this section, you should provide one or a few main research questions, in which you hoped the research will answer and the objective to which your research is directed. Research Methodology The methodology to be used and likely sources of information to be consulted. In most cases, library, Internet, press reports and government papers will be the main option. These may be supplemented by discussion with others with an interest in the same area. Research Schedule A timetable showing the proportion of the total time for each phase of the work (literature survey, organisation of data, writing and correction of drafts). Free format of spacing and margin of the paper. Free format of font type and size in the paper. Length of paper: Minimum 1 page and maximum 3 pages.

SUBMISSION OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL Candidates will be informed on the shortlisting results by early November 2010. Research proposal must be submitted DIRECTLY to Yayasan Sime Darby if candidate is shortlisted via E-MAIL or FAX at +603 2693 9095: Cik Muzdalifah Mohd Nasir E-mail: muzdalifah.nasir@simedarby.com Tel: +603 2693 9095 En. Muhammad Faizal Zainal Abidin E-mail: mfaizal.zabidin@simedarby.com PRESENTATION OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL Shortlisted candidates are required to present their research proposal during the interview session to be held in mid November 2010. Interview Schedule (exact time) will be communicated to participants nearer to the interview date. The presentation and content of research proposal will be evaluated by a Special Panel formed by Yayasan Sime Darby. Attendance for the interview session is compulsory.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THIS PROGRAMME!

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