FROM the mid-60s to the early 90s, I came to Malaysia almost every year, first as an entertainer, later as an audio-video director.

Now, back as an inventor seeking design, computer-aided design and manufacturing services, I have fallen in love all over again with this great and gracious land.

Though vastly more sophisticated than on my last visit, the warmth and hospitality of the people, including those I’m working with, the diverse multicultural folk I’ve had the pleasure of meeting in hotels, shops and on the streets, has not changed at all.

Like most of my fellow Western innovators and entrepreneurs, I first went to several other Asian countries, seeking the technological know-how and facilities I needed to take my invention to the market place.

Only through sheer coincidence did I learn that, here in Malaysia, all that I needed could be easily and cost-effectively accessed and accomplished. This country is an innovator’s heaven.

The hotel I’ve stayed at is one to rival the best anywhere in the world. It really does have it all, for business and relaxation.

With brilliant young designers, backed up by the absolutely state-of-the-art technological facilities, a Malaysian company has made an almost “impossible” job a joy and so very easy to accomplish.

To those in authority over such matters, I would urge greater promotion to the world from which I come, because that is the key to greater investment, export dollars and employment for Malaysia.

Proudly proclaim this country’s innovative developmental skills and facilities to all who would invent the future and the future will come to be “born” in Malaysia.

I am proud that our product will bear the stamp “Made in Malaysia” in lounge rooms, arcades and rehabilitation clinics throughout the whole world.

DR ROBERT JAMES-HERBERT, Sydney

Source: NST – January 24, 2008