The third quarter of 2006 has been most eventful. MASSA continued with its ongoing Cross Border Investment (CBI) seminar series covering another four countries and we have a couple more in store before the end of the year. These events have been well attended by members and non-members alike and have proven to be a good introductory point of exploration, not to mention the opportunity for members to network with each other and to catch up on our respective cross-border happenings.

This quarter also seemed to be the favourite for Bangladesh visitors! MASSA organised a successful mission jointly with MIDA to Dhaka and Chittagong in June 2006. This led to reciprocal visits by delegates from the Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI), Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and a host of post visit follow-up meetings. The bilateral business ties have been positively strengthened and we urge members to look at the emerging potential for business linkages with this country of 145 million inhabitants.

MASSA and French CCE organised a luncheon talk featuring the Safic Alcan group – a successful French commodity trading group which has been in the Asia Pacific region and in Malaysia for more than 30 years. The enlightening talk by Mr Nicolas Lebard certainly was an eye opener into the world of commodity trading. Encouraged by this success, we will endeavour to bring members more of such events.

MASSA also organised visits to Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ), Westports Malaysia, MASKargo and LSG Sky Chefs Brahim Sdn Bhd. The response to the visit was overwhelming and we apologise for having had to decline late registrants. MASSA, in keeping with our objective to keep our members on the cutting edge of emerging developments, will endeavour to present you with more opportunities to participate in these visits. So, look out for our weekly MASSA news via your email or your faxes!

The proposed mission to Timor Leste remains on hold, unfortunately. Nevertheless, MASSA together with MATRADE is organising a marketing mission to Sudan, Kenya and Tanzania from 15 – 25 November 2006. Come join us on this mission and explore the potential for your products and services in this region.

We look forward to members’ continuing active participation in our activities and we also welcome your suggestions to make the Association your preferred networking base.

Hamidah Tun Ghafar
Editor