End Phase 1

This ended the 1st part of our "adventure". I think the results are good. The Governor may be coming to Kuching. There seems to be a long term relationship developing although we need to see how the next step unfolds. The G toG relationship excites them as it would reduce scope on both sides to "misbehave". We would be counted on to deliver results on acceptable prices while they would be more confident on us to deliver.

This is a news article on our visit.

Much of the reservations of going to Africa seems unfounded. Although precautions were taken, it seems that the population generally is very friendly. Speaking English really helps.

I think that staying in a hotel which has a good international menu helps. A gym would be very useful too. Harp beer is great.
Probably bringing in some spices or your own favourite food such as Maggie mee, dried sausages, bottled sambal and a few tins of food would add a variety to your food.

I observe of course that Selena (see earlier posting) came alone and went to quite a few outdoor activities so it would seem our caution is rather over the top compared to her confidence.

It seems too that the Nigerians are now realising the possibilities of Asia. After a long and rather fractious relationship with the West, they now see Asia as a less judgmental alternative. The West has been very patronising and expect to transplant their values to Africa. I watched Obama in Ghana and while most of what he says is true, in that Africans cannot continue to blame the West, it is also true that that Africa was the playground of the superpowers and with the US arming some of the despots of Africa, some of the countries were badly messed up. While I recognise the military governments and dictatorship eras are over, I am not sure that the western democracy is entirely a good model either.

We heard that SCOMI has a contract to build a toll road while UEM is also angling for one. Considering the failure of the local agencies to maintain their few roads, I think that would be an effective move. I think SAINS too can really play a role in helping the Nigerians.

I enclose some links to articles on Asia and Africa

Malaysia and Africa

China and Africa

Another China and Africa

Up to date article