Malaysia’s economic growth in 2007 was robust at 6.3%. It was well supported by domestic growth and strong commodity exports. Going forward, Malaysia’s economy is expected to remain on a steady growth path in 2008. GDP growth for 2008 is targeted at 5% – 6%. In addition to the aforementioned factors sustaining our resilient economy, Malaysia’s diversified export base has become another key factor to keeping our exports buoyant. Significant increases were recorded in exports to the Asian region including the emerging economies of People’s Republic of China and India.

Over the last decade and half, our Government has been encouraging the Malaysian business private sector to venture into developing countries to seek new markets for their products. These efforts have bore fruits.

The services sector has also expanded and will be a key driver of growth for 2008. In addition to the construction services sector, we are pleased to see members in the field of healthcare, education, telecommunication and the financial sector actively engaging in successful cross-border investments activities. We must strive to tap into new opportunities in these emerging economies, grow and broaden our market base and in that process, position our Malaysian services as regional and global players.

MASSA is committed to seek out business opportunities emerging from these developing economies for members through our networks and business linkages.

I take this occasion to extend a warm welcome to YB Tan Sri Dato’ Muhyiddin Mohd Yassin on his appointment as the new Minister of International Trade and Industry, who is our Association’s Advisor. We look forward to work closely with YB Tan Sri in furtherance of Malaysian exports and investments globally and particularly in the developing countries.

I also take this occasion to thank YB Dato’ Seri Rafidah Aziz, the former Minister of International Trade and Industry, for her steadfast support and advice she had rendered to our Association since our inception in 1992.

TAN SRI DATO’ AZMAN HASHIM
President