Lima '11 to draw greater interest and participation

NST 2011/02/17

This year's Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (Lima) exhibition is expected to attract 500 companies and more than 50,000 trade and public visitors from all over the world.Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said to date, nearly 70 per cent of available floor space had been taken up, with 31 countries confirming participation.
"This reflects a substantial increase in interest from the maritime and aerospace industry in Malaysia and the region," he said at the launch of Lima '11 at the Matrade Exhibition and Convention Centre yesterday.
More than 500 guests, including ambassadors, high commissioners and members of the armed forces, were present.
"Asia is widely recognised as a major growth region for the maritime and aerospace industry over the next 10 to 15 years. The country is gearing itself to be a major hub for several sectors," said Zahid.
"This includes maintenance, repair and overhaul, aerospace components manufacturing, commercial and corporate aviation and commercial shipbuilding."
He said to achieve a more balanced portfolio at Lima '11, commercial aviation and shipbuilding aspects had been added to the exhibition.
"By opening the exhibition to the commercial sector, Lima will provide more opportunities for companies to tap into this lucrative market."

The Defence Ministry will also collaborate with relevant ministries and government agencies to ensure the successful adoption of this new initiative.
One of the major attractions of this year's event is the Airbus A400M airlifter, which makes its debut.
The government had ordered four of the powerful aircraft to supplement the Royal Malaysian Air Force's fleet of 15 Hercules C-130s several exhibitions ago.
Zahid also witnessed the signing of deals for the participation of 15 major aerospace and maritime companies at Lima '11. They include Rolls Royce, Rostech of Russia, Fincantieri of Italy and EADS, the parent company of Airbus.
"So far, seven ships from four countries are confirmed to be attending in December. The Royal Malaysian Navy will also be showing about 30 vessels, including one of its submarines.
"The 1Malaysia Air Display Team will also be making its debut with the German-made Extra 330, an aerobatic monoplane."