The pace never eases up, does it? Wasn't it just yesterday we welcomed 2008? And now we are heading towards the end of its first quarter. Time is too slow for those who wait and too swift for those who never had a dull moment. Many of us are in the latter, as always.

We are certainly in exciting times. Way to go Malaysia! Way to go MAICSA! As I write this, I am inspired by two things: Firstly, the Elections on 8 March 2008 - which by the time you read this message, you would probably have exercised your right as a Malaysian citizen by voting for the candidate to represent you in Parliament or constituency. Secondly, the opportunities that the new Corridors offer and the challenges that lie ahead for company secretaries.

MAICSA will have its own election on 10 May 2008. That is when MAICSA will hold its 48th Annual General Meeting (AGM). Together with this journal you would have received your nomination form. Do exercise your right to vote.

According to Clause 10.7 of the Institute's Constitution, one-third of the Council members will retire at the AGM by rotation. The Council members to retire by rotation are Assoc Prof Dr Zubaidah Zainal Abidin FCIS, Mohamed Ridza Abdulla FCIS and Rebecca Chan Chin Sieh FCIS. All three were elected to the Council on 4 December 2004 and are eligible to stand for election. They have offered themselves for re-election. Their profiles are available on our website.

We also have other reasons to get excited. The new economic corridors announced by the government will provide many opportunities to business entities and company secretaries alike. At the same time, company secretaries have our own set of challenges, if not setbacks. But then again, the basic premise of business is that it does not stop, no matter what hits it. We move forward with every challenge overcome.

As MAICSA, we shall stand tall and take challenges in our stride. United, we shall win! We will speak as one to the regulatory bodies so that our views will be hear and respected. MAICSA is also looking at offshore threats as well as offshore opportunities to further enhance and create greater visibility for this noble profession of ours. I shall announce to you the details in due course once we have firmly crystalised our concept within the fraternity of company secretaries, and tightened up the nuts and bolts of our strategy.

Please also mark on your calendar - 12 April 2008 - the date of MAICSA's Annual Dinner at Nikko Hotel. Do come in great numbers for this once a year dinner where you get to meet friends, establish new ties and maintain strong goodwill. Most of all, you get to let your hair down and feel good.

Another date to mark in your diary is 17 May 2008, the date for MAICSA Convocation at the Prince Hotel where we will celebrate the success of our graduates and welcome new FCIS and ACIS.

There is never a dull moment at MAICSA. We are a hive of activities moving forward.

Here's wishing all a tremendous year of success in 2008 and the Year of the Golden Rat.

Akbar Moidunny FCIS
President