On behalf of the chambers committee, I am indeed honoured to be entrusted wit the task of organizing the BITF2009, together with the coorperation of the Sabah United Chinese Chambers of Commerce, the KadazanDusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the State Government of Sabah.

The State Government of Sabah's full support has been instrumental in the implementation and success of BITF. This shows that BITF has immense potential to compete with our counterparts elsewhere in the world.

In line with one of the thrusts of the recently launched Sabah Development Corridor ti turn Sabah as a regional gateway linking the rapidly growing BIMP-EAGA region with the dynamic Northeast Asian economies, and the State Government's policies to strengthen bilateral trade relations within BIMP-EAGA region and globally, BITF2009's objective is to provide a platform to attract and promote inter and intra regional trade, business and investment. Our efforts have not gone unnoticed. The success of BITF2007 has created a significant amount of awareness and opportunities in the region. It has also facilitated business exchanges. Apart from promoting trade relations, BITF has also evoked a very high degree of social interest that has exceeded our projections.

The theme of BITF2009 is "Your Ultimate Destination for Business, Culture and Nature". If you are looking for a place to do business, savour the exotic culture of the people and discover the secrets of Borneo, he BITF2009 should be your ultimate destination.

As proud as I am of the accomplishment of BITF2009 as an event that draws in trade organizations and industry players into the region, BITF is also a testimony of the true power partnerships of the State Government of Sabah, State and Federal Government Departments and agencies, Chambers of Commerce, supporting organizations and our corporate sponsors.

I wish to accord my heartiest thanks and gratitude to the State Government of Sabah, State and Federal Government Departments and Agencies, Chambers of Commerce, supporting organizations and our corporate sponsor for their continuous support and efforts in ensuring the success of the BITF2009.

Once again, to all our participants and visitors, I look forward to welcoming you to Sabah and BITF2009. Thank you.

MOHD HASNOL DATUK AYUB
Chairman of Organizing Committee, BITF2009
President of the Sabah Bumiputera Chamber of Commerce (AG)