Transcontinental Ties
	For much of our local history, we have the pleasure of a mutually-beneficial relationship with our transcontinental neighbour, Europe. Trade, investment and cultural exchange between Europe and the then Malay archipelago have been flourishing centuries ago. From the 18th century onwards, trade and investment took on a higher degree of importance, with the trading of tin, Malayan pepper and tea. In turn, Malaya acted as a port-of-call for many European traders on the way to China.
	Fast forward to the European-Malaysian trade of today – in many ways, Malaysia and the European Union have managed to maintain a firm and interdependent trade and investment relationship right into the 21st century. For the past 30 years, our country has evolved from an agricultural and mineral based economy into an economy spearheaded by manufacturing and services. Our rapid industrialisation earned Malaysia the title as the third richest country in ASEAN.
	According to statistics given by the European Commission in 2004, the European Union is Malaysia’s 5th largest source of imports, which stands at a figure of 12%, and the 3rd largest export market with 15.5% of the country’s merchandise exports. Our main trade in the import-export arena with the European Union is machinery and transport equipment.
	On the investment front, the European Union is the biggest foreign investor in Malaysia, particularly within the manufacturing industry. Europe’s investment in Malaysia is valued at RM23.8 billion, which is approximately 30% of the total value of approved projects with foreign participation. Meanwhile, Malaysia’s foreign direct investment with the EU capital is valued at RM5.4 billion, much of it invested in the electrical and electronics sector.
	Figures aside, here are a few analogies of European presence and its influence in our Malaysian scene. IKEA, the Swedish furnishing giant is wildly popular here Malaysia with its range of functional, designer furniture made affordable. And while you’re on the highway, you’re being watched by Belgian eyes – Malaysian speed-detection radar and camera equipments are made in Belgium. In fact, there are many other forms of collaboration between European and Malaysian companies and establishments that span beyond trade and investment, such as architecture, education, science, the environment and more.
	And in Europe, not many people may realise the fact that there is a little bit of Malaysian product on their breakfast table each morning. As the one of the major producers of palm oil in the world, Malaysian palm oil is imported by Europe as an ingredient in many of their products, and the humble margarine is one of them. Lotus, the British manufacturer of sports and racing cars that is famous for designing and building landmark race and production automobiles is owned by Proton, who holds a majority stake since 1996. Biofuel, one of Malaysia’s natural resource, is also exported to Europe.
	Our transcontinental ties with Europe are augmented with the support of associations which promote trade and investment ties through joint ventures, events and various activities. One such council in Malaysia which is actively involved in fostering European-Malaysian business links is the European Union – Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, or better known as EUMCCI.
	The EUMCCI is a non-profit, private sector organisation whose members are Bilateral Chambers and Business Councils and European or European-related companies through business councils or directly. The role of EUMCCI in Malaysia is to forward issues of concern faced by the member companies regarding the implementation of local trade and investment regulations such as offering advice, trade services and contacts, representation of companies to Malaysian government bodies, participation in Industry Committees and organising seminars, just to name a few.
	This year, the EUMCCI will be presenting an event to give recognition to outstanding European-Malaysian trade and investment ties. Called The Europa Awards 2007, it is the first of its kind in Malaysia. This prestigious event will be held at the Grand Ballroom of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on 16th November 2007. Corresponding to its tagline “In Pursuit of Excellence”, it is a business excellence award, in recognition of corporate Organisations/Enterprises which have made efforts and succeeded in initiating, contributing and sustaining the growth of trade and investment links between Europe and Malaysia. It also acknowledges the critical role which every company has in its capacity to be amongst the most competitive enterprises in these nations.
	There will be three exclusive, long term awards bestowed upon the winners based on the specific classification. The first award is given to a company for achieving excellence in continued trade and investment between EU and Malaysia. The second award is bestowed for a member company which has demonstrated the highest excellence in trade and investment in Malaysia, and the third award is for a Malaysian member company which has demonstrated the highest excellence in trade and investment in EU.
	For each award, there will be three nominees. The winner of any one of the awards will be given due recognition and justification by the panel. The award for excellence is based on a number of criteria and in brief they are innovation and organisational ability in their industry, and their corporate social responsibility.
	This year, indulge in a complete sensory treat as the best elements from the continent of Europe converge during the Europa Awards 2007. This one-night spectacular features a dazzling array of European food, music and artistic performance, where outstanding corporate achievements will shine alongside local young artistic talents.
	The Europa Awards 2007 will also serve as a platform for European and Malaysian trade and investment entities to strengthen their partnership and build bridges with new acquaintances in a night of Arts, Awards and Excellence. For more information or for ticket reservations on The Europa Awards 2007, kindly email to events@dpointernational.com
	To view The Europa Awards 2007 Flyer. Please click here