World Chinese Economic Forum to be held in Australia

The World Chinese Economic Forum, attended by leading industry players and businessmen, will be held for the first time outside Malaysia this year. The annual forum, which brings together government, business and thought leaders, will be held in Melbourne for two days beginning Nov 12.

Forum Advisor Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek said Australia was chosen on the invitation by the Victoria state government to host the event as the state has substantial Chinese population.

"Australia, known as a fast growing economy with huge natural resources, has also been attracting more investment from China," Chua said during a media briefing today.

The World Chinese Economic Forum brings together leading business and community leaders from the Chinese diaspora worldwide.

The event, which is to be attended by 500 participants from over 25 countries, will also see discussions on the rise of China and China's economic linkages with her neighbours in Southeast Asia, India, Australia and the Middle East.

Eight recipients will be also receiving their Lifetime Achievement Awards during forum.

One of the recipients of the award would be former MCA president and businessman, Tan Koon Swan.

Tan was previously charged by the Singapore Commercial Affairs Department for criminal breach of trust relating to the collapse of Singapore-based company, Pan-Electric Industries(Pan-El).

It was reported that Glenn Knight, former leading Singapore public prosecutor, had said that he had wrongly prosecuted Tan in the Pan-El case.

"I must congratulate Tan, this is time for redemption and he has gone through very difficult period and I think he deserves it (the award)," Chua said.