In this issue, we are pleased to introduce the MAICSA Council for 2008/09. We have two new Council members on board, namely Heng Ji Keng FCIS who was also elected as the Honorary Treasurer, and Ong Whee Tiong FCIS. I congratulate these two gentlemen and look forward to their contributions and services to the Institute. I would also like to place on record my special thanks to past Council members, Associate Professor Dr Zubaidah FCIS and Mohamed Ridza Abdulla FCIS for their invaluable contributions while serving on the Council.

By the time you read or receive this journal, we would have convened our Annual Conference with the theme “Corporate & Regulatory Updates” on 7 and 8 July. We are privileged to be having the Honourable Deputy minister of Finance 1, YB Dato’ Ahmad Husni Mohamad Hanadzlah to officiate at the opening of the conference and deliver a ministerial address. At the time of writing, we have over 300 delegates who had registered for the conference. I hope to see you there too.

There will be challenging days ahead for all of us. The training of our human capital will be among the challenges. The hike in fuel prices and other contributory factors to inflation have somewhat affected companies sending their staff for training. Everywhere around the world, companies are cutting down costs and it will not be surprising that the first thing they would reduce is on human capital training. However, we must not forget that talents are the people who will drive and grow companies in good and tough times. Hence, I hope training and continuing education will always be considered essential and a worthwhile investment for companies. Please do not be discouraged. The pain in challenging circumstances is only temporary. In time all of us will learn to live with the fuel hike. And like the maxim goes: “No pain, no gain”. The training of human capital in companies should continue.

I also have good news for you, at the recent International Council meeting in Dublin of May 2008, the ICSA UKRIAT division has put on hold its proposal to International Council to dissolve the ICSA’s delegation agreement with its divisions worldwide. Hence, the international working model will maintain its status quo for the time being.

In early July 2008, MAICSA Council will meet for its annual strategy meeting. Rest assured, Council will deliberate on strategies that will take your Institute to higher notches. I am privileged to have very talented people in the Council. I am confident that they will present very good and well thought out strategies, tactics and plans during the meeting.

I subscribe to the wisdom of the following words that calm waters do not make good sailors. With the challenging times surrounding us rather swiftly, all of us will have the opportunity to learn, grow and adapt. We will have every opportunity to excel and show others what we are made of.

I wish all of you success always,

Akbar Moidunny FCIS
President