Asean is obviously a very important association for us. Over the past 30 years Asean has made great strides in regional cooperation covering a number of areas, although recently it has been under strain because of the financial crisis and other challenges.

Asean is obviously a very important association for us. Over the past 30 years Asean has made great strides in regional cooperation covering a number of areas, although recently it has been under strain because of the financial crisis and other challenges.

The nation will benefit in the long term if it continues to be open to foreign expertise. This will help the country to establish its business culture and environment faster, based on international best practice.

We are increasing our efforts to attract the right kind of foreign investors through our various agencies.

As a small country, both in size and population, our future hinges on the quality of our people.

We need foreign skills to stay competitive.

The level of our educational development is high and serves as a strong basis for our future progress.