Bandar Seri Begawan - Asean Business Advisory Council (Asean BAC) has expressed its confidence that Brunei businesses comprising albeit micro, small and medium enterprises as well as the youth and women in businesses can step up their business activities by actively participating in regional economic activities as the region is projected to grow by 5.3 per cent this year.

The positive outlook of Asean was lauded by Fauziah DSP Hj Taib, chairwoman of Asean Business Advisory Council 2013 in her opening remark at the Asean Business Awards 2013 briefing at Rizqun International Hotel.

The chairwoman of Asean BAC said, "Asean is projected to grow by 5.3 per cent in 2013 outpacing IMF's global growth estimate of 3.6 per cent. While the BRICS - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - have been gaining much of the publicity, Asean's growth has shown itself worthy to be recognised as the new BRIC - this is most especially in relation to Asean member states such as Thailand, Indonesia and also the Philippines."

She added, "With such positive confidence in the region, it is imperative that businesses in Brunei are well prepared for the type of opportunities made available through trade and investment in Brunei and the region."

On Brunei business community, she said, "We are confident Brunei businesses can step up to the plate to grow their businesses to actively participate in regional economic activities."

She continued, "The believe for our business capabilities starts from the home ground."

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin