She will be advising the prime minister on foreign policy issues and working closely with the UK’s foreign ministry, the British government said.

In a statement released today, the UK foreign ministry said this is the first time that a British high commissioner to Malaysia had been nominated for this role.

“This is a huge privilege. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has set out ambitious plans for the country.

“I am honoured to be given this opportunity,” Terry said.

She said in her 12 months in Malaysia, her team had accomplished much in strengthening the UK’s partnership with Malaysia in the areas of trade, technology, education, climate, defence and security.

“I have visited many states, and my family and I have also made many friends. We will miss the people, sights and sound, smell and flavours of Malaysia,” Terry said.

During a recent row over medical specialists, Terry said the British General Medical Council recognised all qualifications from the royal colleges in the UK, confirming that Malaysian parallel pathway cardiothoracic specialists can apply for registration as specialists.

She was also appointed patron of the regional board of the Chartered Management Institute.

The UK foreign ministry said that deputy high commissioner David Wallace will take over as chargé d’affaires temporarily from Aug 29 until a permanent replacement is appointed.