I am pleased to welcome both exhibitors and visitors to the 13th Southeast Asian Healthcare show. I understand that this trade event has been constantly fine-tuned and positioned as one of the region’s leading events for the healthcare industry.

Kuala Lumpur, with its excellent convention facilities and central location within South East Asia, is certainly well placed for the hosting this event. At the same time, Malaysia is already a leading nation when it comes to healthcare delivery, both public and private.

The Malaysian Government has always given top priority to the healthcare sector- there are constant upgrades, improvement and new projects in the pipeline. Therefore we continuously provide growth opportunity for suppliers of equipment and services.

I understand that the Ministry of Health and private hospitals continue to be active participants on the exhibition floor. I am sure this trend will carry on and will be welcomed by both professional and trade visitors to the show.

Lastly, my congratulations to ABC Exhibitions for organizing this excellent event and I look forward to welcome all the exhibitors in April 2009.

(DATO' LIOW TIONG LAI)

Minister of Health, Malaysia