Malaysia’s economic performance todate for 2007 continue to be strong as there has been sustained growth in all sectors. Going forward, it is anticipated that this momentum of growth will be sustainable.

Whilst this may be a boon for Malaysia, we must continue to remain vigilant and improve our competitiveness on all fronts. The Malaysian Government has recognised the importance of the SMEs as they contribute 32 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), provide 56.4 percent of employment in the country and have accounted for 19 percent of total exports.

We have seen an increasing number of SMEs successfully penetrating the export markets, particularly markets in the developing countries. The potential to promote our Malaysian products and services in these developing countries is promising. We also note that SMEs still require assistance to gain market access, improve production capacity and capability as well as enhance productivity and competitiveness. The Malaysian Government has taken cognizance of these challenges and have put in place programmes and initiatives to assist SMEs. The National SME Development Council chaired by YAB Prime Minister, has endorsed the first National SME Development Blueprint in 2006 which sets the framework to coordinate, streamline and monitor SMEs development programmes implemented by various Ministries and Agencies. We thank Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and Small and Medium Industries Development Corporation (SMIDEC) for their support by sharing with members in this newsletter their respective articles on this important agenda for nation building.

MASSA held its 16th Annual General Meeting on 20 June 2007. The office bearers were once again re-elected to serve for another term of 2 years (2007 to 2009). The Executive Committee members were also re-elected again except for Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew who wished to retire. I wish to express my sincere gratitude to all committee members who have consented to serve for another term with dedication. I also extend my appreciation to YBhg Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew for his services to the Association.

As we move forward, MASSA will endeavour to provide support to members in their quest to develop and deepen their business linkages in the developing countries.

TAN SRI DATO’ AZMAN HASHIM
President