I have just returned from a short yet pleasant trip to Perth, Australia. It is always been an amazing experience every time I come and visit “the city of lights”. It’s one of those cities that you would feel right at home rather than feeling alienated by the locals! Malaysians have made their presence felt in Perth by its strong community which continues to expand within the city and the suburbs. I showed my Malaysian pride by dining in the local Malaysian restaurants here. How un-touristy of me.
The purpose of my trip though was not merely for leisure as I had flew into the city to attend this year’s Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) organized by Commonwealth Business Council (CBC) in conjunction with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) where 16 head of countries were invited to speak on business issues. Both conferences (CBF and CHOGM) were spread across the week beginning of 24 October 2011.
At first I was rather sceptical about attending this conference as I felt that I would be re-learning things that I already knew. Yet to my pleasant surprise the conference has been an eye opener for me. I have been in the business for over 30 years; I have learned enough to know everything. That was not the case.
In almost all the sessions I have attended during the forum, I have learned so much in getting new ideas and fresh perspectives from knowledgeable and world class speakers. It is a nice feeling when you are able to learn something new through traditional means where in today’s society the internet is the bible in learning new things.
It was a near perfect experience for me; the only grumble I had was I wished scientists would invent a clone machine. I was split in two minds in making a decision to which sessions I wanted to attend while having that slight regret that I would had to miss out on the other sessions I was interested in attending sessions that were on the same timeslot. Yet I had no qualms as the sessions I had participated were engaging and informative.
Throughout the forum, I was rubbing shoulders with the crème de le crème of the global business world. One thousand and four hundred delegates from across the globe had congregated in a single place to exchange information and knowledge with one another. I took the opportunity to spread my wings meeting new people while extending my hand to new friends that I have enjoyed speaking with. I am currently pursuing new business opportunities which I can’t disclose as yet but will be providing further information in future reflections.
A part of me felt like a child again as in two different sessions during CBF, I was face to face with our Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak which I would never dreamed of having the honour doing in my wildest dreams. Even if I did try to get up close and personal with him in Malaysia it would be an impossible feat! I had such a great time quizzing him with my questions. It was a great feeling and it would be one moment I would cherish for life.
I would like to take the opportunity in applauding the Perth Government Administration for the level of professionalism and commitment shown in making sure both conferences were running smoothly. Both conference venues had tight security with police stationed around the venue while some were patrolling the streets keeping a close eye on proceedings. I felt incredibly at ease knowing that I am able to venture into the city feeling safe. The police on duty at the venue were friendly and professional in performing their duties without any problems.
As mentioned earlier in my reflection that Malaysia has a strong community in Perth. I was hoping that there would be a strong showing and support by the Malaysian delegates flying to Perth for the forum. Unfortunately that wasn’t to be. The only Malaysians that participated in the forum was myself and Dato’ Dr Michael Yeoh, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute (ASLI).
A deep part in me felt sad that Malaysia could have sent more representatives to this biennial forum which offers the chance for Malaysian business leaders and intellectuals to communicate, exchange views and opening new avenues to venture into. I have done the best on my part in marketing the forum. I have witnessed and listened to my colleagues who had an uphill struggle marketing the forum to companies and delegates.
Most of the feedback received was that it is too expensive, too far and out of their company’s budgets. To be frank the participation fee for me is reasonable at RM8000. When companies sit down and consider it, it is a little steep but it is an open avenue for future business among the 54 Commonwealth countries.
RUSS was also in charge finding Malaysian speakers to give a talk at the forum. It took several months of searching and planning. My colleague was able to find two. At the final moment one of two speakers pulled out and was reluctant to get a replacement which put us in a bit of a quandary.
Other nations that took part in the forum had many representatives. For example the South Asian and African region; they were able to convince thousands of their delegates to participate in the forum. I do sincerely hope, going forward, the Malaysian mentality “that it is expensive or not worth their trouble” would change. I do hope in 2013, in Sri Lanka where the next Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) will be held, there will be a significant representation from Malaysia.
