Funding over three years for Asia Research Centre's projects

13/7/98

A new wave of research on the changing economic and political situations in Asia is set to proceed after an injection of funds by the State Government.

Commerce and Trade Minister Hendy Cowan said that despite the current crisis, Asia continued to be a valued trading partner importing billions of dollars of Western Australian exports each year.

"Any significant developments in the region have a real impact on the State, so it is crucial we refine our understanding of the underlying factors which make up the different Asian economies," Mr Cowan said.

A total of $300,000 over three years would be provided to Murdoch University's Asia Research Centre for a range of research projects. These would examine issues including:

·      the impact of leadership changes in the region;

·      the differing market economies in Asia (in collaboration with one of Korea's leading universities, Yonsei);

·      accounting practices in Indonesia;

·      market entry strategies for South Korea, WA's second largest export market;

·      the impact of the currency crisis in Malaysia; and -

·      decision-making and organisation practices in Chinese-owned family firms in South-East Asia.

The funding would also help develop new projects which identified opportunities in a broader range of markets.

While the $300,000 would be provided initially to Murdoch University, researchers at Curtin University's Indian Ocean Centre would jointly benefit, participating in a number of projects with Murdoch.

Mr Cowan said universities were a valuable source of knowledge about the Asian and Indian Ocean regions, and the work carried out by the Asia Research Centre and the Indian Ocean Centre was a strategic asset for WA.

"It is particularly important in the current turmoil that we develop Western Australia's understanding of the factors causing problems in Asia," he said.

"One of the strengths of the Asia Research Centre is its ability to reach out from the academic community and address the concerns of both the business community and government. Local exporters will be key beneficiaries of this initiative."

Mr Cowan said the sharing of information would be enhanced by a number of specific conferences, books and research publications planned to accompany some of the projects.

The Minister said WA was committed to a long-term future in Asia which involved not only a business relationship, but also a broader understanding of each other's societies.

Funding had been allocated through the Department of Commerce and Trade.

Media contacts: Peter Jackson (Minister's office) 9222 9595

Cisca Spencer (Asia Research Centre) 9360-6005