ABLF SERIES 2012 ABLF SERIES 2012 ABLF SERIES 2012 ABLF SERIES 2012 ABLF SERIES 2012
ABLF SERIES 2012
ABLF SERIES 2012 ABLF SERIES 2012 ABLF SERIES 2012 ABLF SERIES 2012 ABLF SERIES 2012 The History-Makers of the New Asian Century is the signature publication of the Asian Business Leadership Forum Series and is distributed across 14 countries. An online
ABLF SERIES 2012 version of this publication can be viewed on www.ablfseries.com.
Š Indian Expressions Event Strategy & Design Consultancy 2012 PO Box 211270, Dubai, United Arab Emirates The Asian Business Leadership Forum Trademark and Intellectual Property is held by Indian Expressions Event Strategy & Design Consultancy, Dubai, UAE. The Asian Business Leadership Forum name, logo and brand communiquÊ may not be used in whole or part commercially or otherwise or reproduced in any material form (including photocopying or storing in any medium by electronic means) without the written permission of the IP holder. Any person reproducing any part of this publication without prior written permission will be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages. For enquiries, please email info@indianexpressions.com All Rights Reserved.
A GLOBAL SHOWCASE OF ASIAN BUSINESS EXCELLENCE IN INDUSTRY, INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENERGY
VOLUME II
Pioneered, produced and presented by
T H E A B L F S E R I E S 2 0 1 2 I S D E D I C AT E D TO
THE VISIONARY LEADERS OF MODERN ASIA
ABLF SERIES 2012
CONTENTS
ABLF SERIES 2012 Foreword - The ABLF Journey of Glory
6
Chapter 1 - Messages from the Leadership
10
Chapter 2 - Witness Asia Rising
18
• ABLF Series
20
•
ABLF Knowledge Congress
34
ABLF Awards
78
•
Chapter 3 - Communication Strategy & Global Outreach
174
Chapter 4 - Vanguard of the ABLF Series
186
ABLF Series IP Creators & Architechs
206
Acknowledgement
208
Index, Reference & Photo Credits
210
The Future - The ABLF Awards 2013 212
ON THE LEADERSHIP WAGON
THE ABLF JOURNEY OF GLORY The quest to express the ethos of ‘leadership’ in its contemporary avatar
encompasses the spirit of Asia, the business event Series, created over
has engaged scholars and social scientists through the passage of the
two years of intensive preparatory; research, planning and building of
Industrial age into the present age of knowledge and information. The
strategic alliances, serves as a cutting-edge, zeitgeist platform for Industry,
term ‘leader’ has an ancient context and is enmeshed with authority and
Infrastructure and Energy in Asia.
singularity, while ‘leadership’ is a recent addition to the English language, which evolved from a complex concept that reaches beyond the singular
The Asian Business Leadership Forum Awards 2011, the first in the series
aspect of a leader and is defined in terms of ‘interaction’ among a group of
of spectacular showcases of Asian business excellence in the three pivotal
people participating in a process. Leadership, therefore, is a “collaborative
fields, was a landmark event that set the tone for the Series. Well attended
endeavour”, and this brave 21st century definition debunks the idea of a
and represented, the glittering evening was studded with important
singular autocratic leader.
keynote addresses and presentations and watched by over 25 million viewers across Asia. The Republic of India was the venue for the inaugural
The central tenet of the ABLF Series remains uncompromisingly committed
ABLF event, the ABLF Awards 2011.
to this defining phenomenon of true leadership, which is nurturing within organisations a community of leaders.
TAKING A NEW TRAJECTORY True leadership seeks changes with the key focus that they must not only
Moving forward, we engaged the incredible talent, enterprise, knowledge
reflect the wishes of the leader, but also the hopes of the followers. One
and vision of the ABLF Strategic Advisory Panel, the ABLF Grand Jury, the
of the defining movements of this global change in Asia is a shift from the
Presenters, Associates and Supporters to present an event where they
old ways of leadership, the industrial paradigm that was characterised
could interact, deliberate and discuss a host of subjects under the purview
by a leader being mechanical, hierarchical and unemotional. The ABLF
of Industry, Infrastructure and Energy. And so, the Series embraced
Series honours leaders that walk the talk and showcases exemplary
an information-focused trajectory by hosting a series of Knowledge
entrepreneurial captains who set the highest standards in leveraging
Congresses. Subjects discussed ranged from current opportunities for
knowledge, promoting innovation and making excellence in delivery
cross investments, to potential markets whose vibrant growth could change
standard operating procedure in their organisations.
the destiny of nations, to adoption of corporate governance principles and sustainability to improve the quality of the Asian business-scape.
TRANSLATING VISION INTO REALITY
As the Asian Century picks up speed, opening the flood gates of discovery,
Ideated and architected by Indian Expressions – in association with some
learning and information-sharing, the ABLF Series, with its Awards arm that
of the finest minds in Asia from the worlds of governance, business,
celebrates business achievements and its Forum event, which promotes
industry and policy – to become the quintessential leadership forum that
exchange of information, is at the centre of it all.
6 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF SERIES 2012 – THE STAGING Since its formation in 1971, the United Arab Emirates has worked hard to graduate to the status of a crucial player in the global economy. It is now hailed as the pre-eminent business hub of the region, and a beacon of successful global relationships, trade and goodwill in the Arabian Gulf. The UAE’s leadership is marked by individuals of integrity and vision; a benevolent monarchy that looks upon its pronounced expatriate community as their own.
The celebrated epicentre of the Gulf, the United Arab Emirates was thus, chosen by the ABLF Strategic Advisory Panel as the ideal destination for the 2012 edition of the ABLF Series.
Future Knowledge Congresses will be hosted in regions of focus, and some
In closing, we return to our primary tenet of true leadership and reiterate the
preferred destinations have been tied in already: Indonesia, Singapore,
ABLF Series role in its promotion and showcase. In Asia today, organisations
Oman and Qatar, to name a few. In addition, exclusive cameo forums will
are beginning to set the trend for the rest of the world to follow.
be hosted and filmed for television in the US and the UK. The Forum will expand every year from here on out, to incorporate new countries, thus ensuring a fresh audience and a global perspective on the Asian story.
The contemporary Asian leadership paradigm THE ABLF SERIES: HONOURING EXCELLENCE The first edition of the official signature publication of the ABLF Series, History-Makers of the New Asian Century, was launched in 2011 by H.E. Kamal Nath, Minister of Urban Development and Parliamentary Affairs. The volume featured articles, commentaries and Asian perspectives from the ABLF Awards Grand Jury, the award winners and key supporters, on what is now being called the Asian renaissance. While the second edition continues to encapsulate the story of Asia in the global business-scape and its pioneers,
is characterised by collaboration, powersharing facilitation and empowerment and the ABLF Series is proud to be the premier showcase of this powerful new leadership movement that epitomises Asia Rising.
it also facilitates an understanding of the ABLF Knowledge Congress and its chief purpose: conversation and collaboration between Asian leaders in the three crucial sectors affecting Asia’s economic evolution.
On the Leadership Wagon | 7
CHAPTER 1
MESSAGES THE LEADERSHIP FROM
H.H. SHEIKH NAHAYAN MABARAK AL NAHAYAN MINISTER OF CULTURE, YOUTH AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, UAE FORMER MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION & SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, UAE
His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan is a strong supporter of the intent and vision of the Asian Business Leadership Forum Series. His Highness is a great friend of the Asian community in the UAE and is beloved for being an approachable and welcoming leader.
The ABLF Series is grateful to His Highness for his unstinting support and his invaluable advice in bringing the ABLF Series 2012 to fruition in the United Arab Emirates.
10 10 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan is the United Arab Emirates Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, and former Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology. One of the UAE’s most visionary leaders, His Highness has paved a new path for the country’s educational system, making it the new hub for higher education and research in the region. In a few short years, he has transformed the UAE into a centre for various international universities to operate and successfully provide exemplary education to students from all over the globe. His Highness’ mission is to continue national investment in schools, universities and research institutions, thereby leading the UAE to incorporate a larger role for itself as a promoter of peace and economic development through education.
Messages from the Leadership | 11 11
“
The work of ABLF celebrates regional and international dialogue
�
and cooperation to promote growth and create a better future for the region.
His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan
12 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
LE T T E R OF PAT R ON AG E FOR T HE ABLF SE RIE S 2012 FR OM TH E M I N I S T RY OF HIG HER EDUC AT ION & SC IENTIFIC RE SE A R CH, UA E
Messages from the Leadership | 13
His Excellency Pranab Mukherjee assumed office as the 13th President of India on July 25, 2012, crowning a political career of over five decades of exemplary service to the nation in Government as well as Parliament. President Mukherjee is a man of unparalleled experience in governance with the rare distinction of having served at different times as Foreign, Defence, Commerce and Finance Minister. A renowned scholar, his intellectual and political prowess as well as his remarkable knowledge of international relations, financial affairs and parliamentary process are widely admired. He has been acclaimed for his role as a consensus builder on difficult national issues through his ability to forge unity amongst the diverse political parties that form part of India’s vibrant multi-party democracy.
14 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
M E SSAG E FOR T HE ABLF SER IES 2012 FR OM T H E PRE S IDEN T ’S SEC R ETAR IAT, R A SHT R A PATI BHAVA N, N E W DELHI, IN DIA
H.E. PRANAB MUKHERJEE PRESIDENT OF INDIA
Messages from the Leadership | 15
The Honorable Prime Minister of India, Dr Manmohan Singh is rightly acclaimed as a thinker and a scholar. He is well regarded for his diligence and his academic approach to work, as well as his accessibility and his unassuming demeanor. Earlier, during his tenure as the Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996, His Excellency was widely credited for carrying out economic reforms in India in 1991 which resulted in the end of the infamous Licence Raj system and the opening up of the Indian economy. In his celebrated political career, his contributions toward the betterment of India are insurmountable.
16 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
M E SSAG E FOR T HE ABLF SER IES 2012 FR OM T H E PRI M E M IN IST ER ’S OFFIC E, SOUT H BLOCK, R A ISINA HILL, N E W DELHI, IN DIA
H.E. DR. MANMOHAN SINGH PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA
Messages from the Leadership | 17
CHAPTER 2
WITNESS ASIA RISING
THE ABLF SERIES The ABLF Series is an ambitious amalgamation of the celebratory Asian Business Leadership Forum Awards and information-focused knowledge events across the key drivers of global economy – Industry, Infrastructure and Energy. It is geared towards addressing evolving economic developments through the twin processes of introspection and inspiration.
The first edition of the ABLF Awards was held in New Delhi in October 2011 and paid tribute to exemplary leaders from the Gulf, India and South-East Asia, for excellence in the aforementioned pivotal sectors.
In its second year, the ABLF Series has augmented two-fold and embraced a more knowledge-focused trajectory, acknowledging the need to create a platform for conversation and information-sharing. Towards this end, the second year of the ABLF Series saw the conceptualisation of the inaugural ABLF Knowledge Congress, because no event property can sustain without prioritising the growth of a knowledge economy.
“
The ABLF Series is a very good initiative because it brings together leaders in different sectors across Asia to engage each other, inform each other, and partner with each other. With Asia now emerging as the engine of global economic growth,
�
it is important that Asian leaders integrate and participate in global growth more than ever before.
H.E. KAMAL NATH
Union Cabinet Minister of Urban Development, and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India
The framework of the ABLF Series has been designed to accommodate and encourage collaboration among Asian corporations. Each of these organisations has left an indelible mark on the global economy and most of them are now looking to extend their business footprint. The ABLF Series attempts to provide them with a space to make this possible through knowledge-sharing and conversation.
A comprehensive showcase of the two events, the Series allows for leaders and pioneers of the Asian economy to inspire their international counterparts, providing space for introspection and ultimately honouring their ground-breaking progress.
ABLF
THE ASIAN RENAISSANCE THE GULF
The Gulf Corporation Council bloc, which consists of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman, accounts for 40 percent of global oil reserves and 25 percent of natural gas reserves. About US$ 2.5 trillion worth of infrastructure projects are either under way in the Gulf region, or are in the pipeline. The youth constitutes more than one-third of the region’s population and half the region’s working age population, providing potential for increased economic growth, which is
INDIA
being tapped through enormous investment in human capital development
India, a vital part of the elite trillion-dollar economy club, has coped well
and strengthening of a knowledge economy. Relatively untouched by the
following the global meltdown. It has weathered the storm better because
political unrest in the Arab world, the Gulf is bound to remain an engine
of strong economic fundamentals and the presence of the world’s biggest
of wealth creation, encouraging local and foreign investors to continue
middle class. Growing at nearly six percent per annum, India has not only
pursuing investment opportunities in the region.
bolstered South Asia’s growth, but is playing a key role in rebalancing the global economy. Its true potential could be measured not just by what it has accomplished so far, but what it strives to achieve in the future. As the fourth largest economy in the world in terms of purchasing power parity, India is soon shaping up to be the fourth largest consumer of energy. Powered by its wealth of human resources and vibrant knowledge economy, this indicates its extraordinary economic momentum.
22 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
E
ABLF
THE REGIONS OF FOCUS
In an environment of rapid change, Asia is on high energy, forging alliances both internally and with other regions of the world, creating vibrant new partnerships and cementing old, important ones. With Asia as the rising epicentre of the global business world and constantly in the global spotlight, the ABLF Series epitomises the values of ancient Asia as well as the modern business‑scape of the region.
SOUTH-EAST ASIA With a population of about 600 million, the South-East Asian countries, as represented by the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), include Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. With a combined nominal GDP of more than US$ 2 trillion in 2011, ASEAN - if designated as a country would rank as the ninth largest economy in the world in terms of nominal GDP. With rich natural resources, skilled labour, and an export industry concentrated in global high-growth sectors, South-East Asia is a dream destination for investors. With China, India and the Gulf countries pursuing ASEAN members to further their economic growth, the South-East Asian countries are likely to remain economic powerhouses in their own right. In addition, they are likely to play a key role in realising the potential of an Asian economic community.
ABLF THE ABLF SERIES 2012
SECTORS OF FOCUS INDUSTRY • INFRASTRUCTURE • ENERGY The key drivers of the global economy
INDUSTRY
INFRASTRUCTURE
ENERGY
24 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF INDUSTRY THE BACKBONE OF NEW-AGE ECONOMIES The process of industrialisation has paved the way for a societal transformation in Asia, as it did in the West in the past century. Industry-wide reform in Asian countries such as China, India and Japan set the foundation for the wave of industrialisation that followed. Leaders of these nations were instrumental in creating a strong base in heavy industries and promoting their growth. This had a ripple effect on the economy as the infrastructure and energy sector grew, thus facilitating industries. With the region’s developing nations contributing 25 percent and industrialised nations contributing 20 percent, the possibility of Asia surpassing the Western foothold in the industrial sector appears real.
INFRASTRUCTURE THE FOUNDATION OF ECONOMIC GROWTH Infrastructure plays a vital role in an economy as it has the characteristics of both intermediate and final products and services. As an intermediate product, it promotes the mobility of factors of production and the flow of information, thus, improving productivity and stimulating growth. As a final good, the consumption of infrastructure services directly impacts the quality of people’s lives. The infrastructure boom in Asia has been the most visible sign of progress for the continent. By employing the latest technology, Asia has made a leapfrog in this sector, bypassing intermediate stages of infrastructure development. Owing to overwhelming demand for infrastructure and the strong financial backing it can attain, this sector has great potential in the future. It is imperative that nations reform their infrastructure creation policies to boost such a vital lifeline of the modern economy, paving the way for better provision of public goods.
ENERGY THE HEART OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Much of Asia’s progress has come from rapid industrialisation and infrastructure creation, both of which require a consistent supply of energy. Thus, Asia and its equitable access are inextricably linked to economic growth. Replete with fossil fuel sources, Asia is not only the world’s largest energy supplying continent, it has emerged as the biggest consumer of energy too. Asia’s energy demand is expected to double by 2035. This has assumed greater importance in the face of Asia being the biggest producer and consumer of energy and the interplay of politics in the energy market. Policy reforms by governments in the energy sector have been influenced by their goals to achieve energy security. The security of supplies has a temporal dimension, as nations want to employ those sources which are viable in the short as well as long run. There is also a need for the energy market to be resilient to shocks of supply which may occur due to unavailability of natural resources or supply chain breakdowns.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Series | 25
ABLF
ONE PORTAL, MANY MINDS WWW.ABLFSERIES.COM
The Asian Business Leadership Forum Series (www.ablfseries.com) hosted
Asian
two independent web portals – one for the Awards (www.ablfawards.com)
infrastructure, housing, industry and human capital. It is reported that
and the other for the Forum (www.ablforum.com) - that described related
by 2030, real investment in Asia could rise to as much as US$ 22 trillion
history, information, updates, as well as the nomination mechanics for the
per year. Asian economies are becoming increasingly sophisticated and
Awards event. The websites are designed and calibrated to become a multi-
have integrated themselves across the globe; meanwhile, intra-regional
faceted resource centre for Asia in the fields of Industry, Infrastructure and
trade in Asia has tripled since 2000. Rising household incomes are
Energy.
causing a surge in consumer demand for a broad range of products and
economies
have
sustained
extraordinary
investments
in
services - real Asian consumption may reach US$ 45 trillion per year by Register with ABLF online as a member and gain full access to the latest
2030. This enormous growth offers huge potential not only for Asian
information on the aforementioned sectors. Participate in on-going
development, but also for Asia’s prospective role in bailing out other
discussions as industry veterans and scientists explore the numbers
flailing economies.
behind the infrastructure challenge or debate the rise of an era of massive government debt. Read cutting-edge reports from global business leaders,
The ABLF Series platform brings together business scientists, thinkers and
key infrastructure advisory and top consultancies as they design process
strategists to throw light on how organisations outside the region capture
blue prints with productivity gains that can save US$ 1 trillion per year on
the Asian opportunity.
infrastructure spending. View curtain raisers on the latest sustainability measures and governance policies that have been incorporated to support these three bastions of global growth, and view expert commentaries and current perspectives as the leadership unearths critical issues facing
THE ABLF SECTOR OF FOCUS: INDUSTRY, INFRASTRUCTURE & ENERGY
governments, contractors, and financiers. Industry: Rapid industrialisation and increasing wages, coupled with maturing consumer demand in many of the countries in Asia, are driving
ASIA’S CENTURY HAS ARRIVED
different types of global trade growth. In this dawning era, new trade corridors between Asia and Africa, Asia and South America and within Asia,
Asia is the world’s largest and fastest-growing regional economy. By 2030, its
will re-chart global supply chains. As trade volumes shift towards emerging
real GDP is expected to more than double to US$ 67 trillion, outstripping GDP
markets and least developed countries take their first steps into the global
projections for Europe and the Americas combined. Asia’s incredible growth stems
marketplace, the privatisation phenomenon has already helped fire up
from three distinct phenomena: sustained growth, the inclusive and integrated
Asian economic growth, and Asian economies are beginning to benefit
nature of the Asian economies, and mega spikes in consumer demand.
from increased efficiency and better access to capital.
26 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF As Asian countries shift towards higher value sectors, there are significant
Energy: What roles will different forms of energy play? And which countries
opportunities for companies to evolve and grow. Some of the faster
will produce and consume the most energy? More people, more wealth,
growing, emerging Asian markets show a shift from basic commodities
more energy demand - that has been the story of the world’s civilisation over
trading in sectors such as cereals or sugar, to become a refiner or producer
the last 250 years. Around 1820, the world’s population reached one billion.
of branded goods based on those raw materials. In many of the developed
Since then, it has soared to more than seven billion and is set to exceed
Asian markets there is a shift towards increasingly specialised sectors such
eight billion by 2030. This demographic growth has been accompanied by
as chemicals and pharmaceutical products as companies seek opportunities
even more spectacular economic growth. The world economy has almost
for higher returns.
doubled in size over the last 20 years and is expected to double again over the next 20. Energy has been a contributing factor as the number of people
Emerging Asian markets are developing at a phenomenal pace and are
living on less than US$ 1 a day has halved since 2000, from approximately
set to reshape world trade patterns over the next 20 years. By expanding
two billion to around one billion, achieving the first of the Millennium Goals
their operation’s in to new, higher value sectors, they are driving the rest
set by world leaders in 2000.
of the global industry to specialise and diversify to compete. Understanding which sectors are growing in which markets, delivers huge opportunities for businesses as they plan for the future and aim to capitalise on these trends.
CHRONICLING CHANGE AS IT HAPPENS
Infrastructure: To keep pace with global growth by 2030, the world will have
The ABLF Congress and its online tributaries, fill in the blanks and processes
to spend US$ 57 trillion on infrastructure. Outdated approaches to financing,
new information that is being delivered through cutting-edge newsletters and
poor design and construction and a decades-long deficit in productivity,
newscasts on ABLFSeries.com.
argue a fundamentally new approach to one of the world’s most expensive problems. The ABLF convenes an on-going expert discussion around
Log on to register and be a part of the ABLF movement towards knowledge
innovative approaches to rethink, reengineer, and rebuild the industry by
and information for more global economic growth and development, creating
bringing together stalwarts from across Asia. How much more energy will
new jobs, creating wealth and building knowledge-based work societies.
the world need in the future? Are there enough energy resources to meet growing demand? The ABLF Knowledge congress participants debate and deliberate at these Forums and offer fresh alternative perspectives.
A BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE PLATFORM THAT
COLLATES, CONNECTS & COMMUNICATES Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Series | 27
ABLF
WORLD LEADERS SPEAK FOR THE ABLF SERIES
“I support the Asian Business Leadership Forum Awards’ effort and initiative to celebrate the achievements of Asia in a common forum and its mandate of strong leadership commitments to excellence, sustainability and development.” H.H. SHEIKH AHMED BIN SAEED AL MAKTOUM Chairman, Dubai World; Chairman, Dubai Airports; Chairman & Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, UAE
“I would like to commend the Asian Business Leadership Forum for organising this Asiawide initiative. An Asia-wide platform has not been created for many years. I initiated Asian cooperation dialogue during my tenure as Prime Minister in 2003 and invited all the Asian countries to join. That was for a political track; but for the business track, the Asian Business Leadership Forum is a great platform to bring business people together.” H.E. DR THAKSIN SHINAWATRA
Former Prime Minister, Thailand
28 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
“This is an interesting time, economically and geopolitically in Asia and I believe this event is important for exchanging and producing new ideas that can prove useful for cross-border purposes.” H.E. GITA WIRJAWAN Minister of Trade, Indonesia
ABLF
“The ABLF is the first time when India, the Middle East and SouthEast Asia have come together to recognise the success of the infrastructure industry. We at Adani are committed to the infrastructure sector, the potential of Asia and investing in the Asian region and hence our support and endorsement of this initiative.”
“As prosperity comes through I see massive opportunities. Urban development in India will be the biggest sunrise industry that any country has seen in any part of the world.”
“What we need in Asia is for the business leaders to get together, and there should be a leader to get them together. ABLF is that leader.”
DR KUSHAL PAL SINGH
Former Minister of Commerce & Industry, Oman
Chairman, DLF Limited, India
H.E. MAQBOOL ALI SULTAN
GAUTAM ADANI
Chairman, Adani Group, India
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Series | 29
ABLF
LEADERS SPEAK
INDIA’S INFRASTRUCTURE CHALLENGE India is one of the largest and fastest growing economies in the world and its demand for superlative infrastructure facilities is ever growing. This has resulted in increased demand for infrastructure facilities, especially in the sectors of resources, logistics and energy.
The development of adequate infrastructure is the most critical prerequisite for sustaining the current growth momentum of the economy and to ensure inclusiveness of the growth process. India’s Planning Commission envisages total investments in excess of than US$ 500 billion in the infrastructure sector for bridging the infrastructure deficit and sustaining a medium growth momentum of over five per cent per annum.
However, while infrastructure development is one of the top priorities of the nation, the pace of growth in infrastructure has not been commensurate to the demands and it continues to pose a major challenge for the country.
PRANAV ADANI MANAGING DIRECTOR, AGRO AND OIL & GAS, ADANI GROUP, INDIA
Apart from efforts by the government, private infrastructure players such as the Adani Group have emerged as major contributors towards the economic growth of the country. With the current installed power generation capacity of over 200GW, India is one of the top power generating countries in the world. The Indian Ministry of Power has set up
A graduate in business management from Boston University, USA, Mr Pranav Adani is responsible for strategic business decisions and leadership development in the Agri and Oil & Gas business of the Adani Group.
an aggressive target of 76,000MW for the 12th Five-Year Plan. However, the critical issues of fuel availability, its prices and environment clearances for power and coal projects continue to be major issues for the power sector.
With an experience of more than a decade in agri business Mr Adani has
Private infrastructure players are also playing a major role in bridging the
held various positions in a number of industry forums. He has served as the
power deficit. Adani is a leading private power producer and operates the
Chairman of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Gujarat and presently serves as member in CII National Council on Agriculture & FMCG and Governing Council, Ahmedabad Management Association (AMA).
ABLF world’s largest private thermal power plant at Mundra, generating 4620 MW. Furthermore, Adani is developing power projects across the country to generate 20,000 MW by 2020.
In the logistics and port infrastructure sector, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) operates the Mundra port, which is the country’s largest multi-cargo private commercial port and the fourth largest port when compared to government run ports. Additionally, last year, Adani commissioned the Dahej port with a capacity of 20 million tonnes and is in the process of developing ports in Gujarat, Goa and Andhra Pradesh. We also operate a coal terminal at Abbot Point, in Queensland, northern Australia and have planned significant investments in our assets in Australia
While infrastructure development is one of the top priorities of the nation, the pace of growth in infrastructure has not been commensurate
and Indonesia in coal mining, railway and port infrastructure.
to the demands and it continues to pose a
In August 2010, Adani acquired Linc Energy’s coal mining assets in the
major challenge for the country.
Galilee Basin, northern Queensland, Australia for US$ 2.7 billion. The production of coal is expected to start in 2014 and will reach 60 million metric tonnes by 2019. In Indonesia, Adani operates coal mines in South Sumatra, East Kalimantan and Central Kalimantan provinces.
Energy and Infrastructure are the drivers of growth for all Asian economies,
excellence inspires the nation, the workforce and enhances Asia’s value
either developed or emerging, and initiatives in these sectors need special
from a global perspective. Events like the Asian Business Leadership Forum
recognition as these sectors are game changers. Mentoring and supporting
Series provide a good platform for collaborative dialogue and it is high time
new business talent is the way forward. The Adani Group believes that
that such events were initiated. The Adani Group is proud to support such
with sustainability, collaboration and responsibility at the core, we create
a commendable initiative.
opportunities for greater growth and success. Setting benchmarks for
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Series | 31
ABLF
THELEADERS ABLF COLUMN SPEAK
BUILDING A KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY If I consider the example of the United Arab Emirates, which is a close trading partner of India, I can positively say that education, and particularly higher education, will be the driving factor in the next wave of growth in the industry and commerce sectors of this region.
In such a young country, which celebrated its 41st year of formation on December 2, 2012, there has always been a strong focus on a knowledgebased economy, or knowledge economy, where our leaders have always stressed the importance of education in the economic growth and prosperity of our nation – believing that the future of the UAE depends on the education of our people.
From the wisdom of the Founder of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan came the belief that: “The greatest use that can be made of wealth is to invest it in creating generations of educated and
DR TAYEB KAMALI VICE CHANCELLOR, HIGHER COLLEGES OF TECHNOLOGY, UAE
trained people.” Education is wealth and as a result there is a nationwide commitment to provide all UAE citizens, regardless of age or gender, with meaningful education so they can become valuable and contributing members of society. The UAE’s annual education budget is now in the billions of dirhams and is amongst the highest in the Gulf. The economic, social and cultural development of our country can be linked to the wonderful
Dr Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology is a leader in developing and managing organisational change. As part of
advancements in education and the emphasis placed on education by the country’s leaders.
the senior management team of the Higher Colleges of Technology he has worked to create a world-leading e-learning institution through strategic implementation of laptop learning programs, wireless campus infrastructure, online learning programs and knowledge management programs.
In the UAE there are now more than 60 registered national and international higher education universities, colleges and institutions operating to serve
ABLF national and international students. The UAE is home to a wide range of universities, both public and private and it has one of the highest application participation rates in the world.
The belief in the UAE is that education, innovation, entrepreneurship and a global perspective are key components of our success in the future. These four components underpin what the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), strives to achieve. As it celebrates its 25th year, the HCT continues to maintain its focus on adapting its academic and training programs to suit the industry, business and employment conditions of the UAE and the Gulf.
It is important to provide students with new ways of learning that recognise their aptitude for mobile learning by making their education experiences more effective and rewarding. Bringing the world into the classroom and
I can positively say that education, and particularly higher education, will be the driving factor in the next wave of growth in the industry and commerce sectors of this region.
breaking down the virtual classroom walls, so that students can thrive in the ‘learning by doing’ mode in an ‘anywhere-anytime’ mobile learning environment is vital in the 21st century.
At the recent ABLF Knowledge Congress I mentioned that the impact of Asia on the world is immense, it is a force that has played and will continue to play a major role. As we see a growing emphasis on a knowledgebased economy in Asia, I firmly believe that it will be a strong educational foundation that will build the region’s capacity to grow industry.
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ABLF
ASIAN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP FORUM KNOWLEDGE CONGRESS 2012
LEVERAGING THE KEY DRIVERS OF THE GLOBAL ECONOMY INDUSTRY • INFRASTRUCTURE • ENERGY Dubai International Financial Centre October 3, 2012
34 | HISTORY-MAKERS OF THE NEW ASIAN CENTURY |
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ABLF There are restrictions in the mobility of goods and services; there are restrictions in the mobility of human beings from one territory to another, but the one thing for which there are
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no restrictions, is the transfer of knowledge. The one thing that has no boundaries is knowledge.
H.E. KAPIL SIBAL
Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Government of India
Asia’s success is the result of ambition, labour, collaboration and innovation
the Global Economy’. The inaugural edition rolled out elegantly on October 3,
by its entrepreneurs and business leaders. This success has been fostered
2012 at the Dubai International Financial Centre in Dubai, UAE.
by the creation of a conducive policy environment and healthy governance practices by governments and policymakers alike. As a result of this
H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Culture, Youth and
dynamic combination, Asia has seen a miraculous boom in the past few
Community Development, in his key-note speech, which was an extraordinary
decades, which has transformed and enriched the lives of millions, if not
ode to India and the rest of Asia, referred to the Indian Minister for Urban
billions of people. Today, this region is home to emerging powerhouses
Development and Parliamentary Affairs, H.E. Kamal Nath, as his brother, thus
whose stability and growth are key to the future of the global economy.
setting the tone for the event, a true celebration of intra-Asia camaraderie and friendship. His Highness said, “The Forum highlights the fact that leaders
The inaugural edition of the Knowledge Congress reflects a global shift as
must have a global view and an understanding of how their organisations,
established and emerging economies across the world pursue the creation,
their countries, and their regions fit into the global context. Leadership in this
evaluation and efficient use of knowledge for growth. Towards this end, the
age requires the ability to build relationships and break through barriers. I am
second edition of the ABLF Series was launched with a Knowledge Congress
confident that the Asian Business Leadership Forum will help strengthen Asian
on Industry, Infrastructure and Energy, titled, ‘Leveraging the Key Drivers of
economies.”
| HISTORY-MAKERS OF THE NEW ASIAN CENTURY | 35
ABLF The Forum Chief Chair, Minister Kamal Nath, one of the defining leaders of
Leading Asian conglomerates represented were Kizad – the Abu Dhabi
our time, a veteran politician and economist with immense experience, in
Government’s Industrial Zone of the future; Etisalat - the Middle East’s
his address said that India and the UAE have had a friendship that stands as
largest communication operator; Masdar - the Abu Dhabi government
a testament and proud example to the rest of Asia and the world.
and Mubadala’s pioneering renewable energy initiative; the Dodsal Group - a multi-billion dollar EPC conglomerate; NTPC Ltd - India’s largest
The Forum was attended by senior ministers, business leaders and policy
power company; Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman - a law firm based in
makers from the participating constituencies of the Gulf, India and South-
world’s major financial centres, with a keen industry focus on the energy
East Asia and featured panel discussions on Industry, Infrastructure and
and natural resources; PT Semen Gresik - the foremost cement company
Energy. Expert panellists delved into a fascinating analysis of Industry,
in South-East Asia; and IDFC Limited - India’s premier financial services
finance and government in Asian economies; public-private partnerships in
institution focused on infrastructure, who were the ABLF Lead Knowledge
Infrastructure; and Asia’s unique Energy story bringing illuminating insights
Partners and an important associate of the event.
to each topic of discussion. The highlight of the Knowledge Congress was that all the 18 panellists Panel Moderators included Mr T.K.A. Nair - Advisor to the Prime Minister of
across the three sessions rallied around the consensus that reiterated and
India - whose knowledge of the processes of evolving policies and structuring
emphasised the value of education in building capacity and its impact on
projects at the Central Government level to bring mega infrastructure
industry, and most importantly the need for timely investment in Asia’s
projects to life made his presence as Moderator of the Infrastructure panel
human capital through vocational training and education.
a compelling one; Dr Tayeb Kamali – Vice Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE – who brought a broader and more scholarly focus to the discussions that made a formal business discussion more academically compelling; and Mr Rajiv Luthra – one of the world’s most sought after lawyers, whose involvement in structuring some of the most awarded deals across the region makes him an expert on the Energy sector.
The ABLF expert panel of speakers epitomised some of the defining entities in the region’s business-scape. The government and private sector of the UAE, India, Indonesia, Oman and Qatar were represented powerfully. The panellists were passionate about the cause of their constituency’s role in Asia’s growing global economic context. Mr Naveen Jindal, the man behind the transformation of Jindal Steel and Power Limited into a world class organisation that girdles the globe, held forth on two sessions. His sharp rhetoric was well received by the audience and press alike.
36 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
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ABLF
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
H.H. SHEIKH NAHAYAN MABARAK AL NAHAYAN MINISTER OF CULTURE, YOUTH AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, UAE FORMER MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, UAE
38 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF “Honourable Minister, Kamal Nath, Asian business leaders, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to what promises to be a lively and enlightening forum. I extend a very special welcome to His Excellency Minister Kamal Nath. Your Excellency, welcome to the United Arab Emirates. It is indeed an honour to have you with us today. Your visit and your participation at this Forum are clear indications of the depth of friendship, trust, and cooperation that has long existed between India and the United Arab Emirates.
I am also delighted to see so many leaders of business, government, and the academy gathered together for serious discussion about leveraging the key drivers of the global economy. Because you aim to analyse and explore the intersection of industry, finance, and government in Asian economies, the proper nature of public-private partnerships in infrastructure, and the long-term outlook for energy in Asia - because you will do all of that before lunch, I shall offer but a single observation.
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As the very name of your ABLF Knowledge Congress implies, you will always be concerned with the most fundamental
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driver of the global economy, namely, education.
As the very name of your ABLF Knowledge Congress implies, you will always
education of the nation’s individual citizens. Ignorance does not generate
be concerned with the most fundamental driver of the global economy,
a useful discussion of Industry, Infrastructure, and Energy. The knowledge
namely, education. The best outcome of your deliberations today would
and skills that you bring to this forum represent your education, both in
be, I’m sure, progress and development for Asia, and I am also sure that
classrooms and in the workplace as you have drawn on habits of the mind
you have recognised the wisdom of this thought: “Educating the individual
acquired in formal education, habits that have allowed you to continue
is a country’s most valuable investment. It represents the foundation for
learning even as you acquired additional skills to get things done.
progress and development.” Those are the wise words of the President of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al
As you leaders in this room know best, technology and globalisation are
Nahayan. His Highness, the UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of
wiping out lower-skilled jobs while at the same time steadily raising the skill
Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh
level required for new jobs. Even the most promising university graduates
Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahayan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy
will falter if they are not lifelong learners. And people without at least some
Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, reinforce the President’s belief
sort of post-secondary education are most likely to be competing only for
that developing a knowledge-based society depends fundamentally on the
the shrinking number of low-skilled jobs. They will probably contribute
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Knowledge Congress | 39
ABLF very little to the development of a knowledge-based society. And those 200 million children around the world, many of them in Asia, who now receive little or no education at all, will be an enormous drag on the global economy and a dreadful stain on the conscience of us all.
Citizens habitually identify governments as the provider of education for the bulk of their populations. But the means sufficient and necessary to discharge that responsibility rarely materialise unless the leaders of all endeavours in the country actively and creatively support the education enterprise. When they acknowledge that the education of the individual is their country’s most valuable investment, they will act for the well-being of their society. That wellbeing, while sensitive, to economic matters, involves something far more basic - the worth and dignity of each person in the society.
A prominent thinker once defined true education as, and I quote, “An inclination joined with an ability to serve mankind, one’s country, friends, and family, in which ability should indeed be the great aim and end of all learning.” You in this room have applied your ability, and the result of your learning, to the service of mankind, your country, your family, and your friends. In demonstrating the truth of my observation that you are always concerned with education, even as you discuss industry, infrastructure, and energy, you remind us that you are also concerned with the well-being of all citizens. That well-being requires that they all be educated, that they all have the ability to participate in the global economy and to serve mankind, their country, their friends, and their family.
Education is also crucial in our attempt to develop global understanding and build positive relationships between people and cultures. That education, ladies and gentlemen, is the world’s most valuable investment.
H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan with Minister Kamal Nath
ABLF
“
It is now clear that the future of Asian economies requires constant structural changes. It is also clear that these changes must be accompanied by appropriate social policies, successful
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local development, greater emphasis on ethical and transparent transactions, and wider individual and institutional participation in all economic activities.
I believe that the current times and circumstances give great importance to
and regional development, as well as in the global economy, how to build
the broader, overarching aspect of the reason you have come together in
economic relations across our borders, how to take advantage of the
this forum. I refer, of course, to the fact that this is a Leadership Forum. You
emerging and growing special place of Asia in the world economy, and,
are a remarkable array of outstanding and impressive individuals who have
yes, how to develop the full potential of our human resources through
demonstrated the impact that strong, effective leaders can have.
education and training.
Your challenge in this Forum is to ask the right questions and focus on the
Your leadership is required to understand that future success in Asia
important issues. It is now clear that the future of Asian economies requires
depends on our ability to innovate and create new knowledge, new
constant structural changes. It is also clear that these changes must be
technologies and new products. Success depends on building relationships
accompanied by appropriate social policies, successful local development,
across boundaries and borders and strengthening cooperation at all levels.
greater emphasis on ethical and transparent transactions, and wider individual and institutional participation in all economic activities.
I am confident that this Forum will help strengthen Asian economies. Thank you, and best wishes for a day of imaginative and productive thinking.
I am confident your Forum will inspire thoughtful analysis and creative approaches to these challenges. I look forward to your formal and informal discussions about how to maintain national and regional prosperity, how to strengthen the private sector and increase its participation in national
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Knowledge Congress | 41
ABLF
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
H.E. KAMAL NATH UNION CABINET MINISTER OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT; MINISTER OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS, GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
42 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF “Your Highness, and India’s great friend, besides being my great guide and friend, Sheikh Nahayan; our advisor to the Prime Minister, Mr T.K.A. Nair; distinguished guests, I am deeply honoured and privileged here in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Nahayan. As we all know, Sheikh Nahayan has led the transformation of the education sector in the UAE. We, in India, have followed closely what has happened in the educational
“
Asia has not got to only be a consumer of
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intellectual property, but it has got to be a producer of intellectual property.
transformation in the UAE over the last decade and a half, and Sheikh
lies. We are seeing a continued crisis in Europe and the United States; a
Nahayan, you rightly said, that while everything will happen - progress
continued crisis - sometimes less sometimes more; but it is always a crisis.
will happen - but the soft infrastructure of education that every country needs, and your leadership in this has brought into the UAE educational
In Asia, we did not have a financial crisis. I always say that in India, the
institutions from all across the world. I don’t think any country has so many
banks give money to the government; the government does not give
educational institutions, their branches, their campuses, their skills, their
money to banks. That is the big difference, and it is here that Asia’s strength
talents, in one single place as the UAE.
has emerged. We have large economies and small economies; we must recognise that 60 percent of the world’s young population lives in Asia as
India and the UAE share a cultural and historic relationship. It’s not just a
consumers. We must recognise that even in India, the country throws up
relationship of trade or politics, but a deeply embedded relationship that
15-20 million workers into its economy every year. So Asia is home to the
India and the UAE have shared over centuries. So Sheikh Nahayan, we are
largest aspirational society on this planet, and it is this aspirational society
all greatly honoured by your presence here, and you rightly said that Asia
that Asia is endowed with, which is going to be the leadership of tomorrow.
has to be the new global driver of the world economy. The Asian Business Leadership Forum brings together not only to greet, The past is history; we saw Europe and the United States as engines of the
but also to meet, to engage, people from different fields and different
global economy. Today, this global economic architecture is undergoing
sectors and adds a new momentum to the integration of Asian economies.
a great change, and it is here that Asian leadership has to emerge. What
We are not interdependent, but everybody is interconnected. How do we
is the Asia of the next decade? What is the Asia of the next century? Not
interconnect more? Whether it is in financing, whether in financial structure
merely in terms of trade, but as a repository of intellectual strength. Asia
or governance, or in financial governance, regulatory governance, it is this,
has not got to only be a consumer of intellectual property, but it has got
which is going to be very important.
to be a producer of intellectual property. Asia has the intellectual and entrepreneurial talent to do this. We’ve seen this great transformation; we
So before I conclude I would like to thank His Highness Sheikh Nahayan for
saw the G8 transform into the G20. In the G20 there are six Asian countries
his presence and for the inspiration he brings us all.
that are represented and this transformation will only gain momentum; this transformation has to gain momentum because that is where the future
Thank you very much.”
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ABLF
44 | HISTORY-MAKERS OF THE NEW ASIAN CENTURY |
“
ABLF
In the past few years, intra-economic activities within Asia have gone up tremendously
whether it is in trade or also in investment. I think it is important for us to explore new opportunities that will further bolster such economic relationships within the Asian
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community. The ABLF provides a forum for such dialogue and can become the Davos [World Economic Forum] of Asia.
H.E. GITA WIRJAWAN Minister of Trade, Indonesia
| HISTORY-MAKERS OF THE NEW ASIAN CENTURY | 45
ABLF THE INDUSTRY SESSION
THE INTERSECTION OF INDUSTRY, FINANCE AND GOVERNMENT IN ASIAN ECONOMIES
46 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF The Industry Session analysed the dynamic relationship between industry and government in Asia and explored the role Asian governments play in private sector financing, innovation and trade as well as their efforts to increase private sector access to capital. Panellists examined the role of Asian governments in fostering and promoting private sector innovation and best practice, and discussed strategies used across Asian countries to highlight research and development. The discussions aimed to discover if existing legal protections and incentive schemes across Asia are sufficient to encourage meaningful progression, and discussed trends in Asia for trade policy as well as barriers-of-entry and currency dynamics that influence private sector development.
SESSION MODERATOR
DR TAYEB KAMALI
Vice Chancellor, Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE
“When we think about the numbers and look at the statistics, it is no doubt that Asia has become a force that has not only played a part in the past few years, but it will continue to play a bigger part in the grand scheme. The role of the government and the private sector, and the regulation that sometimes hinders or supports development, are some of the key challenges that we have to look for if we are going to go further as we move ahead.” Dr Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology is a leader in developing and managing organisational change. As part of the senior management team of the Higher Colleges of Technology he has worked to create a world-leading eLearning institution through strategic implementation of laptop learning programs, wireless campus infrastructure, online learning programs and knowledge management programs. Dr Kamali’s keen understanding of the structure and intricacies of corporate functioning, combined with his skill sets in strategic vision and planning were leveraged at the ABLF Knowledge Congress. He brought a broader and more scholarly focus to the discussions that helped the session on Industry make a formal business discussion more academically compelling.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Knowledge Congress | 47
ABLF
PANELLISTS
INDUSTRY SESSION “Indonesia and other ASEAN countries need to be part of the production network, because the essence of modern business, in its future role, is the presence of a supply chain. It means that greater corporation among the Asian countries - South-East Asia, South Asia and also East Asia - becomes very important, as every country is interdependent on the growth of each other. One way to improve the production network, in order to boost the industry’s performance, is improving the investment climate..” DR M. CHATIB BASRI Dr M. Chatib Basri is the Chairman of BKPM, the Investment Coordinating Board of the Republic of Indonesia. As the primary interface between business and government, BKPM is mandated to boost domestic and foreign direct investment by creating a conducive investment climate. The agency works as a proactive advocate for investments as well as a matchmaker for investors.
“I think there should be a lot of integration between financial institutions to push down interest, so that they can create the capability to invest. Effectiveness of the regulation that can support capital building, specially in supporting research activity, is essential.” DWI SOETJIPTO Mr Dwi Soetjipto is President Director of PT Semen Gresik, the largest cement producing company in Indonesia with an annual cement producing capacity of 17 million tonnes. Semen Gresik aims to become the foremost cement company in South-East Asia by producing and trading cement and other relevant products with an orientation on customer satisfaction by applying environmentally-friendly technology.
48 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
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“The speed of reform has to be equivalent to the addition to the labour force. If the people added to the labour force every year don’t get employed, it clearly causes social issues in the economy; I think that becomes the key driver for policy initiatives.”
ABLF
NAVAL BIR KUMAR Mr. Naval Bir Kumar is the Vice Chairman of IDFC Mutual Fund. He was one of the key members responsible for establishing the Mutual Fund business for ANZ Grindlays in India and has led the company since its inception. The Company was subsequently acquired by Standard Chartered in July 2000 and by IDFC, India in May 2008.
“Capacity building is extremely important; we have a huge amount of youth, but if they are not going to be trained properly, then they are not going to be able to contribute to the economy, to the country. There are a whole of opportunities, a whole lot of unmet demands, and a whole lot of unemployed youth. At industry level, our responsibility it to bring these together.” NAVEEN JINDAL Mr Naveen Jindal is the Chairman of India’s leading steel producers Jindal Steel and Power Ltd. With an annual turnover of US$ 3.5 billion, Jindal Steel & Power Limited has a significant presence in sectors like mining, power generation and infrastructure. A man of myriad talents, Mr Jindal is a crusader for the Indian national flag, an advocate of women and child rights, a philanthropist, a parliamentarian, a politician, a successful industrialist, and a sportsman par excellence.
“The three pillars – access to market, low operating costs, and ease of doing business – are key fundamentals and ones that we can deliver in Asia, in a growing population.” ALEXANDER HAEX Mr Alexander Haex is the Vice President of Business Development at Kizad, the latest industrial zone project in Abu Dhabi. With its enormous size and strategically planned approach, Kizad is set to become a hub for manufacturing, logistics and trade across a number of sectors.
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ABLF THE INFRASTRUCTURE SESSION DEFINING PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS IN INFRASTRUCTURE
50 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF The Infrastructure panel explored the symbiotic relationship between public-private entities and their impact on the development of infrastructure in successful economies. The dynamic sector’s rapid progress as it adapts to the changing business environment is a game changer at several levels, impacting everything from technology innovation to financing and policy. The panel highlighted the importance of inclusive growth and the benefits, challenges and opportunities of public-private partnerships in the infrastructure industry. Panellists examined the catalysts that spur economic, technological and political change and showcased case studies that prove that a global financial crisis does not lessen the need for infrastructure improvements.
SESSION MODERATOR
MR T.K.A. NAIR Advisor to the Prime Minister of India, Dr Manmohan Singh
“For promoting and fostering faster, more inclusive, more sustainable growth and development, the main thing is infrastructure. Without infrastructure development no substantial progress in any sphere can be expected in any part of the world, particularly in the emerging Asian economies.”
Retired from the Indian Administrative Services in 1997, Mr Nair is the most senior and well known bureaucrat in the Prime Minister of India’s Office. He was also Secretary to former Prime Ministers I.K. Gujral and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. As Principal Secretary, Mr Nair was the backbone of the Prime Minister’s Office for over seven years. His knowledge of the processes of evolving policies and structuring projects at the Central Government level to bring mega infrastructure projects to life made his presence as moderator of the Infrastructure panel a compelling one. Mr Nair helped weave the omnipresent government policy-infrastructure equation into the panel discussion. He drove the panellists to focus on the importance of infrastructure in the emerging economy of India and the role of the government and private sector in supporting economic growth at national and international levels.
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PANELLISTS
INFRASTRUCTURE SESSION “In Asia we have seen that growth preceded infrastructure. Since growth happened before infrastructure development, we have a huge infrastructure deficit and that is one of the biggest threats to the growth of Asian economies.” H.E. KAMAL NATH FORUM CHIEF CHAIR H.E. Kamal Nath is India’s Minister of Urban Development and Parliamentary Affairs. To address the growing urban infrastructure challenge in India, Minister Nath aims to create economically vibrant, inclusive, efficient and sustainable urban habitats. As Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, he is responsible for the smooth conduct of business in both the Houses of Parliament.
“The real problem today is not the awareness, or the capital, because at the end of the day there is enough available; the highest savings rates in the world today are in the very regions where you need infrastructure. What is really missing, and what a single forum has never mentioned, is the attitude to get it done.” RAJEN KILACHAND Mr Rajen Kilachand, Chairman and President of the Dodsal Group, UAE, has taken his organisation from a US$ 200 million multi-retail interest company to a world-class multi-billion dollar group. A leading company in Engineering, Procurement and Construction sector, it has diversified to encompass businesses that include Trading and Distribution; Exploration & Production, Casual Dining Restaurants and Manufacturing.
“Partnership is great, but we need to understand how it works. Looking at the legislation here, there is not enough legislation in the UAE or GCC to cater for a PPP project.” FATIMA AL JABER Ms Fatima Al Jaber, COO and Executive Director of the Al Jaber Group, UAE, oversees the operations of more than fifty entities, joint ventures and project vehicles, spanning diverse industries from civil construction to manufacturing, trading and logistics. A staunch advocate of women’s rights in the UAE, Ms Jaber has played an integral role in raising the profile of Arab women in business and is the first female member to sit on the Board of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce. 52 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
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“There have to be attractive returns. Some of the PPP projects are high‑risk opportunities and unless there are attractive returns, such projects will fail to attract investments. There also needs to be a political consensus when it comes to building infrastructure.”
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NAVEEN JINDAL
“How the risk is apportioned and who bears which risk is the challenge of any PPP, be it in infrastructure or telecommunications.” KAMAL SHEHADI Dr Kamal Shehadi, in his capacity as Etisalat’s Senior VP for Regulatory Affairs, is responsible for strategic regulatory engagement at group level. He is also responsible for overseeing the performance of Etisalat’s operating companies’ regulatory activities, and identifying regulatory or public policy opportunities to create value, managing regulatory risk. Etisalat is the Middle East’s largest communication operator and the GCC’s third largest corporation.
“We have to find a way where people can come together and figure out a framework in which the execution challenges are minimised and therefore the risk-reward equation for the private sector is more balanced in order to get infrastructure development expedited in the country.” VIKRAM LIMAYE
Mr Vikram Limaye, Managing Director and CEO of IDFC Limited, India, has over 25 years of experience working with global investment banks, international commercial banks and global accounting firms. Prior to joining IDFC, Mr Limaye served Credit Suisse First Boston in the USA in a variety of roles in investment banking, capital markets, structured finance and credit portfolio management.
“What it all drains down to is education and awareness. In infrastructure, PPP has to be understood by both the private and public, the success of that can only be achieved through education. I think we are yet to invest heavily into the educational infrastructure” SHEIKH ABDUL AZIZ AHMED SULTAN AL HOSNI Sheikh Abdul Aziz Ahmed Sultan Al Hosni, Vice Chairman of the Oman-based Qurum Business Group also serves as Chief Executive Officer and Independent Executive Officer of National Securities Co. SAOG. He has also served as Chairman and Director of National Gas Company SAOG and as Deputy Chairman at National Securities Co. SAOG. Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Knowledge Congress | 53
ABLF THE ENERGY SESSION ASIA’S FASCINATING ENERGY STORY
54 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF The Energy panel analysed the long term energy outlook in Asia; oil, gas and coal markets in Asia; demand and supply of renewable green energy in Asia; energy economics; and finance and legal aspects of this increasingly relevant sector. The session included professionals and companies from the dynamic world of power markets who offered their invaluable insight and learning from the challenges of the various energy resources in Asia. In addition to oil and gas, the panel also touched upon the strong foothold that nuclear energy is taking in Asian nations to meet the increasing demand for electricity.
SESSION MODERATOR
MR RAJIV LUTHRA Founder & Managing Partner, Luthra & Luthra Law Offices, India
“Based purely on statistics, when you look at the history of nuclear power in the world and the number of accidents, and I’m not condoning even one death, the statistics really speak for themselves. Why this huge concern about safety?”
Mr Rajiv Luthra heads one of India’s foremost law firms - Luthra & Luthra, which specialises in tax, regulatory and compliance laws. He has been recognised for his outstanding contribution in the category of ‘Global PFI/PPP Deals’ and is amongst the best in the Asia-Pacific Project Finance league tables by the Dealogic Global Review. Listed as a leading business lawyer in Chambers Global Leading Lawyers, Legal 500 and Practical Law Company, Mr Luthra is a regular commentator on legal and economic issues. His portfolio includes extensive work in the Energy arena, making him an authority on the subject. Mr Luthra highlighted the business and legal angle of the Knowledge Congress by sharing his expertise on corporate law and the legal intricacies involved in the field of Energy. His legal prowess and knowledge tied in with his experience across the various energy markets, as well as his involvement in structuring some of the most awarded deals across the region makes him an expert on the Energy sector.
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PANELLISTS
ENERGY SESSION
“Energy is an important thing, but we need to diversify energy sources, be innovative in all aspects of the spectrum, from wind, wave, nuclear to coal, gas, and make it safe and cleaner and more reliable, not only for us, but also for future generations.” ESSA ABDULLAH AL GHURAIR Mr Essa Abdulla Al Ghurair, Vice Chairman of Al Ghurair Investment, UAE, is also the Deputy Chairman of LERCO, holding extensive experience in managing industrial assets and trading of commodities in international markets. Mr Ghurair has been the main driver of Al Ghurair Investment’s entry into the energy sector and has been actively involved as the Vice Chairman in the management of TRASTA Energy Limited, the Group’s vehicle for investment into energy and power sector.
“Will Fukushima stop nuclear power? I think the answer to that is a clear no.” STEPHEN HUTTLER Mr Stephen Huttler is Senior Partner at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, a full-service law firm with a keen industry focus on the energy and natural resources, financial services, real estate and construction, and technology sectors. Based in the world’s major financial, technology and energy centres, Pillsbury counsels clients on global regulatory, litigation and corporate matters.
56 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
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“India is more dependent on thermal energy, which forms a part of the energy basket. We are looking into renewables and there is a lot of focus by the government on that. In the coming years, a lot of renewable energy in solar, wind, biomass and others will be developed in a major way.”
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M.K.V. RAMARAO Mr M.K.V. Ramarao is the Executive Director of NTPC Ltd, India’s largest power company, set up in 1975 to accelerate power development in India. It is emerging as an ‘Integrated Power Major’, with a significant presence in the entire value chain of power generation business. NTPC ranked 337th in the ‘2012, Forbes Global 2000’ ranking of the World’s biggest companies. With a current generating capacity of 39,174 MW, NTPC plans to become a 128,000 MW company by 2032.
“We should be looking at the true cost of energy. It is not just about nuclear accidents, but also about the true cost of cumulative pollution over many decades, and the pollution that we are looking at in prospect over the next 20 or 30 years. So true cost in all aspects - the cost of funding, the cost of financing, the cost of pollution, the true cost where the subsidy lies across the whole industry.” TREVOR NASH As Chief Operating Officer at Masdar in Abu Dhabi, Mr Trevor Nash has responsibility for Masdar Capital, Masdar Power, Masdar Carbon, and Masdar City. Launched by the Abu Dhabi leadership in 2006, Masdar aims to be a global leader in commercially-viable clean energy and sustainable technologies, and to secure the Emirate’s continued leadership in the evolving global energy market.
“Nuclear is a long term sustainable strategy to de-risk ourselves from the reliability security concerns of oil and gas.” M.K. SINHA Mr M.K. Sinha is the Managing Partner and CEO of IDFC Alternatives Limited which is the Alternative Asset Management business vertical at IDFC with US$ 2.2 BN funds managed across 3 Asset Classes – Private Equity, Infrastructure & Real Estate. He has over 22 years of international experience in private equity, project finance, corporate finance and investment banking. Prior to joining IDFC, Mr Sinha worked with GE Commercial Finance in the Structured Finance Group, the Bank of America and SBI Capital Markets in India.
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THELEADERS ABLF COLUMN SPEAK
DR RAJIV LALL ON THE ABLF SERIES On the dynamics of infrastructure development in the progress of a country Infrastructure is key. You cannot, in the 21st century, expect to deliver superior sustainable growth, unless you have core infrastructure in place.
There is a lot of focus and attention, as there should be, on reducing poverty levels all across Asia, and often people do not associate infrastructure development with poverty reduction. But in fact, the building of quality infrastructure is absolutely key to delivering inclusion and reducing poverty. Unless you have functional rural roads, farms and farmers cannot be connected to the market. Unless you have a sophisticated telecom infrastructure, rural communities are totally disconnected from
DR RAJIV LALL EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN IDFC LIMITED, INDIA
the rest of the country. So finding solutions to improving the quality and penetration of infrastructure services is absolutely imperative not just for development and growth, but also for poverty reduction.
On Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework and infrastructure
Dr Lall straddles the policy-making and finance worlds. He has about three
The PPP framework for building and maintaining infrastructure is a
decades of experience with leading global investment banks, multilateral
challenging one, but is also one full of possibilities and promise. The
agencies and in academia. He chairs the Global Agenda Council on Infrastructure
PPP theory essentially means that you take advantage of the superior
of the World Economic Forum, as well as the Infrastructure Council of the
efficiency, management skills and technical expertise of the private sector
CII (Confederation of Indian Industry). His areas of expertise include project
to build the infrastructure, which otherwise the government, the public
finance, private equity/venture capital, international capital markets, trade, and
sector, would have to build by itself and it would take much longer and in
macroeconomic policy issues with a focus on emerging markets.
fact be at much higher cost.
ABLF However, in practice, these kinds of contracts are very difficult to craft
On India and its stance in the Asian chart
since risks have to be allocated and responsibilities have to be properly identified. There could be instances when the government is unable to
The sharpest contrast in Asia in the infrastructure space is between India
advocate land on time, which in turn causes project delays, escalating
and China. India’s infrastructure development boom over the last decade
costs and thus affecting the return for the private partner. Likewise, there
or so has been led by the private sector. In the eleventh five-year plan
could be a tendency for the private sector to maximise their return, which
for India, the target investment over a five year period, 2007-2012, was
can lead them at times to cut corners on quality and so on. Hence the
500 billion dollars at 2007 prices. Nobody thought this could be done. It
government needs to have clear rules established. For any PPP project to
turns out that at the end of this plan, we have actually invested almost
be successful, it requires a degree of maturity and sophistication, both
97% of those US$ 500 billion. Initially, the projection was that about 20%
on the part of government and its ability to regulate and manage bid-
of it would come from the private sector, 80% would be invested by the
out contracts in a fair and transparent manner, and the private sector, to
public sector. In reality, what has happened is that almost 40% has come
behave in a professional manner and not focus very narrowly just on its
from the private sector, and only 60% from the Government. In China, it
commercial interests.
is basically a state-led model, hence there is a very interesting contrast between the two countries.
On the PPP model in India’s infrastructure story What India has to share in terms of its experience with the rest of Asia is the Many people are not fully aware that India, today, is the largest PPP market
lessons learned from private participation in infrastructure development
anywhere in the world, because in India, the government does not have
on such a grand scale. Also, this infrastructure boom in India has helped
the fiscal resources to invest in the infrastructure space to the extent that
nurture a new generation of increasingly sophisticated local construction
the country needs. So it is important for us to invite private capital on
companies. These companies have superior quality engineering and
a huge scale to help develop infrastructure. If you take a road program
services, and hence have a lot to offer to our friends, partners and
for example, or the energy sector, particularly power generation, the
neighbors in the Middle East, especially in the UAE and Qatar, as they are
scale of private participation is unparalleled. And this is in a country that
investing heavily in developing their own infrastructure.
since independence is used to an economic model which was completely public sector driven. After over 60 years, we have now shifted gears in such a dramatic fashion to a completely different approach. Hence it is not surprising that we have growing pains. But I am sure the Indian experiment will be successful. It will take time but we will learn the right lessons from the mistakes we have made.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Knowledge Congress | 59
FORUM DELEGATES
H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, UAE
H.E. Kamal Nath Minister of Urban Development and Parliamentary Affairs, India
Mr T.K.A. Nair Advisor to the Prime Minister of India
H.E. M.K. Lokesh Ambassador of India to UAE
H.E. Salman Al Farisi Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the UAE
Dr Tayeb Kamali Vice Chancellor Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE
H.E. Abdulraheem Hasan Naqi Secretary General Federation of GCC Chambers, KSA
H.E. Mohamed Helal Al Muhairi Director General Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE
Dr M. Chatib Basri Chairman, BKPM, Investment Coordiantion Board, Indonesia
Ms Malini N. Menon Managing Director Indian Expressions, UAE
Dr P. Mohamed Ali Vice Chairman & Managing Director Galfar, Oman
Mr Naveen Jindal Chairman Jindal Steel and Power Ltd, India
Mr Yusuff Ali M.A. Managing Director EMKE Group, UAE
Mr Rajen Kilachand Chairman and President Dodsal Group, UAE
Dr B.R. Shetty CEO & Managing Director NMC Group, UAE
Mr Rajiv Luthra Founder & Managing Partner Luthra & Luthra Law Offices, India
Mr Syed M. Salahuddin Managing Director ETA Ascon Star, UAE
Mr Essa Abdulla Al Ghurair Vice Chairman Al Ghurair Investment, UAE
Mr Dwi Soetjipto President Director PT Semen Gresik, Indonesia
Mr Trevor Nash COO Masdar, UAE
Mr Stephen Huttler Senior Partner Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, USA
Mr Vikram Limaye Managing Director & CEO IDFC Limited, India
Mr Mohan Jashanmal Chairman Jashanmal National Company, UAE
Mr Naval Bir Kumar Vice Chairman IDFC Mutual Fund, India
Mr M.K. Sinha Managing Director and CEO IDFC Alternatives Ltd, India
Ms Fatima Al Jaber COO and Executive Director Al Jaber Group, UAE
Sheikh Abdul Aziz Ahmed Sultan Al Hosni Vice Chairman Qurum Business Group, Oman
Mr M.K.V. Ramarao Executive Director NTPC Ltd, India
Dr Bharat Butaney President, Indian Business and Professional Council, UAE
Dr Ram Buxani Group President ITL-Cosmos, UAE
Dr Kamal Shehadi Senior Vice President Regulatory Affairs, Etisalat, UAE
Mr Alexander Haex Vice President, Business Development Kizad, UAE
FORUM DELEGATES
Mr Nikhil Kilachand Vice Chairman Dodsal Group, UAE
Mr Anil Bhardwaj Director A. A. Almoosa Enterprises (The Arenco Group), UAE
Mr Heru Sudradjat Acting Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia, UAE
Mr S.N. Sahai Managing Director & Chief Executive DIMTS, India
Mr Prashant K. Gulati CEO Optimistix Ventures, UAE
Dr Janakiraman Moorthy Director Institute of Management Technology, UAE
Mr Shamsuddin Bin Mohiyuddin Director Regency Group, UAE
Dr Indra Darmawan Director of Sectoral Promotion Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board
Mr Obaid Al Shamsi Counsel, Energy Group Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, UAE
Mr Stephen Jurgenson Partner Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, UAE
Eng. Baha Mohammed Ridha Allawati Senior Manager International Roaming & Caretaker Oman Telecommunications Company, Oman
Mr Hameed Salahuddin Director ETA Ascon Star, UAE
Mr V.R. Sharma MD & CEO Steel Business Jindal Steel & Power Ltd, India
Mr Venkat Dharaniraj Head, Special Projects Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE
Mr Chayo Puronomo Head of Indonesia Investment Promotion Centre (IIPC), UAE
Mr Rajesh Bhatia Chief Financial Officer Global Ventures Jindal Steel & Power Ltd, India
Mr Himawan Hariyoga Deputy Chairman Investment Coordianting Board, Indonesia
Mr Zakariya S. Al Ghassani Chairman SEERABEECE, Oman
Mr Kabeer Jalaluddin Chairman & Managing Director Delta Group, UAE
Mr S.M. Syed Khalil Chairman and Managing Director Jashanmal Group - Gulf
Mr Salim M.A. Director EMKE Group, UAE
Mr Rashid A.W. Galadari Chairman Galadari Investment Office, UAE
Mr Prasad Katta Regional Director, Middle East and Africa Western Union, UAE
Mr Nasser Bin Aboud Group Chief Government Relations Officer Etisalat, UAE
Mr Manoj Prasad CEO and Managing Director Signature Capital PTE, UAE
Mr Ashish Mehta Managing Partner Ashish Mehta & Associates, UAE
Mr Surinder Singh
Mr Mohamed Al Neaimi Executive Director, Business & Comm. Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE
Mr Mohamed H. Al Mehairbi Head of Delegation Section Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE
Mr Abdul Rahman Siddiqui CFO MediaQuest, UAE
Mr George Edward Group Corporate Communication Etisalat, UAE
Mr Raees Khalil
“The ABLF is an excellent platform for business and policy leaders to share their experiences and to discuss how best to promote economic and social development through the business intervention and with support of the Government. I therefore welcome this initiative and am happy to be a part of it.�
- T.K.A. NAIR Advisor to the Prime Minister of India
ABLF KNOWLEDGE CONGRESS PHOTO GALLERY
“Events like the ABLF help in bringing together like-minded entrepreneurs, business leaders, government policy-makers and civil society representatives from Asia on the same platform to share ideas. Asia is really the engine of economic growth at this point in time in the global economy and as the world goes through one crisis after the other, the importance of this region becomes critical.” - ANITA MARANGOLY GEORGE Director, Infrastructure, International Finance Corporation (IFC)
“This is going to be a very powerful platform for the years to come and I look forward to being part of it as we move forward.” - DR TAYEB KAMALI Vice Chancellor, Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE
“The ABLF event is a very important event given the fact that Asia is expected to lead the economic growth and play a very important role in the coming years. I thank the organisers for taking this initiative and gathering so many prominent people who really shared their experiences, which will really help the countries in the region to plan and move ahead.� - H.E. M.K. LOKESH Ambassador of India to the UAE
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“It is a great pleasure to be here at the ABLF conference because this is a forum where we can exchange information about the innumerable business opportunities” - DR M. CHATIB BASRI Chairman BKPM – Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board, Indonesia
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“The ABLF Series has done a wonderful job; it is the appropriate time and the venue is excellent. All the speakers presented themselves well and good points were discussed. I congratulate Indian Expressions.� - DR B.R. SHETTY CEO & Managing Director NMC Group, UAE
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“The Knowledge Congress is a great initiative with the captains of our industry joining together to have a fruitful dialogue. I attended the first event that happened a few years ago, and when the organiser told me there was another one happening in Dubai, I was very keen to participate.� - FATIMA AL JABER COO and Executive Director, Al Jaber Group, UAE
“I am a great admirer of the Asian Business Leadership Forum. The profile of companies that they bring in and the opportunities they provide to meet people, network and exchange views, makes it a great forum to be in.� - DR P. MOHAMED ALI Vice Chairman & MD Galfar, Oman
ABLF
LEADERS SPEAK
IS THE INDIAN GROWTH STORY LOSING ITS SHEEN? “India’s GDP grows by just 5.5 percent in the second quarter of 2012.” “FITCH maintains its negative outlook on the Indian infrastructure industry.” “S&P states that India may be the first BRIC country to lose its investment grade.”
It may have gone unnoticed, but the GDP for Russia and Brazil rose at 4.0 percent and 0.5 percent respectively when India’s GDP grew at 5.5 percent. It can be argued that China’s GDP rose at 7.6 percent in the same period, but then, isn’t that a small price paid for living in the world’s largest democracy? Hence, on the contrary, the Indian growth story has just become more realistic but is far from over!
Besides being impacted by various international issues, the Indian growth
RAJIV LUTHRA
story has been heavily impacted by several domestic factors, a crucial one
FOUNDER & MANAGING PARTNER LUTHRA & LUTHRA LAW OFFICES, INDIA
from investing in domestic airlines, the dual dichotomy of land acquisition
being the requirement for better and improved infrastructure. While the aviation sector has been battling with the prohibition on foreign carriers
and obtaining forest and environmental clearances has adversely impacted several projects.
Ace lawyer, Mr Rajiv Luthra is a legend in Indian corporate law, specialising in tax, regulatory and compliance laws. His firm, Luthra & Luthra, has been recognised for its outstanding work in the category of ‘Global PFI/PPP Deals’ and as the best in the Asia-Pacific Project Finance league tables by Dealogic Global Review. Mr Luthra has been nominated by the Planning Commission of India to an expert panel to formulate a ‘National Competition Policy’ for the 11th Five Year Plan. He is listed as a leading business lawyer in Chambers Global Leading Lawyers, ILFR 1000, Asia Law, Legal 500 and Practical Law Company.
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Nonetheless, it cannot be overlooked that the government has taken concrete steps to boost the infrastructure space. Government led initiatives such as the IIFCL sanctioned INR 40,373 crore to 229 projects under direct lending (as of March 31, 2012). To encourage retail investment in infrastructure, the Union Budget 2012-13 proposed to double the amount raised through tax free bonds for financing infrastructure projects.
ABLF Realising the need for cost efficient funds, the guidelines for external commercial borrowings have been liberalised, now permitting the availment of ECBs for incurring capital expenditure to maintain and operate toll systems for roads and highways, meeting the working capital expenses of the civil aviation sector and providing infrastructure facilities in National Manufacturing Investment Zones.
In addition to making efforts for providing funds to the sector, as a part of the big bang reforms announced on September 14, 2012, the government has liberalised the much awaited FDI in aviation upto 49 percent. In the POSCO project, IIDCO has successfully acquired 2,000 acres of the total 2,700 acres of land required for the first phase of the project. The PMO eased the norms for transfer of government owned lands for specific projects by dispensing away cabinet nod for the same. Similarly, it is proposed to establish a Project Clearance Board under the Cabinet Secretary, with the objective of establishing an institutionalised mechanism for issuing clearances in a time-bound manner.
Further, although the retrospective amendments to tax laws, proposed by the government may have reduced investor confidence, the fact that the government will not re-open cases where assessment proceedings had been finalised before April 1, 2012 coupled with the fact that the Shome committee has also been asked to review this retrospective amendment has given hope that the impact of this amendment may be diluted.
“
Besides being impacted by various international issues, the Indian growth story has been heavily impacted by several domestic factors; a crucial one
”
being the requirement for better and improved infrastructure.
The intent of the government and the opportunity for the investors is there. It is now a question of when the intent will turn into speedy action to enable investors to encash that opportunity and realise the true potential of India.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Knowledge Congress | 75
ABLF
LEADERS SPEAK
FAST GROWING POPULATIONS, FAST NEEDED INFRASTRUCTURE It is well recognised that the Gulf, and the wider Middle East, has a young and fast growing urban population. And with growth, it should be also well recognised, there comes need – the need for infrastructure to deliver services to this young and fast growing population.
The current economic background of Asia, notwithstanding the rest of the world, is such that there are increasingly constrained public budgets. Governments still need to find solutions to deliver on projects relating to transportation, utilities, education and healthcare. How they do this, though, remains challenging for the government itself and the companies relied upon to actually construct the infrastructure.
The embedment of a successful public-private partnership model in the
FATIMA AL JABER GROUP COO & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AL JABER GROUP, UAE
Middle East and supporting regulatory system may overcome these issues. But the success of this model requires change. It can be argued that there have been many positive stories of private infrastructure development in the region. The UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia have delivered power and water sector projects utilising significant private investment. These are generally the result of well organised and competitive bidding processes,
At Al Jaber Group, Ms Fatima Al Jaber oversees the operations of more than fifty entities, joint ventures and project vehicles, spanning diverse industries from
which have led to low-cost independent plants built to schedule and budget, passing on real risk to the private sector.
civil construction to manufacturing, trading and logistics. A staunch advocate of women’s rights issues in the UAE, Ms Jaber is the first female member to sit on the Board of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. One of the UAE’s foremost opinion leaders, Ms Jaber has played an integral role in raising the profile of Arab women in business.
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But undertaking a PPP is not yet smooth sailing in the region. It is acknowledged that most issues arising on PPPs are not unique to Asia. Regional factors do play a part and PPP stakeholders need to be addressing these in order to find a solution to delivering much-needed
ABLF public infrastructure. PPPs require commitment from their backing government. Aligning required governmental departments to support the PPP process, keeping all stakeholders informed, and educating them where necessary on PPP matters is critical. India has done this well, establishing the Ministry of Finance backed ‘PPP in India’ framework to provide a centralised government agency to encourage, support and oversee targeted sector PPPs.
Other countries that have succeeded at implementing the PPP model have done so for the same reasons. They have implemented a comprehensive PPP programme – covering legislative, regulatory and procedural requirements and obligations of stakeholders. They have formulated a central PPP agency, mostly reporting at a ministry-level, to provide the public-side’s capability of planning for complex project structuring, bidding and evaluation processes. Statutory frameworks which clearly articulate stakeholder obligations appear to circumvent the normal
“
PPPs require commitment from their backing government. Aligning required governmental departments to support the PPP process, keeping all stakeholders
”
informed, and educating them where necessary on PPP matters is critical.
problems associated with PPPs, which generally relate to multiple parties, multiple governmental departments and project planning.
In such instances, private investors are more likely to be enticed into a
financing. With an on-going financial crisis and limited global liquidity, the
PPP structure, rather than jittery about where they might stand if the
huge, complex infrastructure projects to be developed in a PPP model
project doesn’t play out as expected.
require considerable financing.
Directly relative to this is the process of risk allocation. Notwithstanding
Asian governments clearly acknowledge they are unable to continue to
the complexities regulatory risk, in PPPs, a balance must be struck
fund the expansion and development of regional infrastructure. And PPPs
between the public and private sectors. An unrealistic expectation
have previously demonstrated that they can, when properly structured and
of risk allocation can lead to the infeasibility of a project for a private
implemented, deliver increased efficiency in public services/infrastructure,
sector participant, and more likely, a complete lack of willing bidders.
the creation of additional private sector employment and reduced reliance
Once a private sector bidder is secured, the issue for PPPs then becomes
on governments to fund the upfront cost of major infrastructure.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Knowledge Congress | 77
THE ABLF AWARDS 2012
ABLF
THE ASIAN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP FORUM AWARDS 2012
ACCOLADES FOR THE LEADERS WHO WALK THE PATH OF EXCELLENCE St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi November 27, 2012
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“
ABLF The issue of Asia’s economic development has captured the attention of the world as the centre of global growth and power shifts from the West to Asia. I commend the ABLF Awards for building such a significant event that showcases
”
how Asian business entities have played a defining role in the rise of Asia.
H.E. VAYALAR RAVI Union Cabinet Minister, Overseas Indian Affairs, Government of India
A new global business world has risen and broken the traditional manacles
East Asia - and pays tribute to exemplary leaders who have stood strong in
of global consciousness, empowering novel business relationships with
the face of the economic downturn and played a significant role in the story
pioneering business energy.
of ‘Asia Rising’.
An international event of Asian significance, the Asian Business Leadership
The Asian Business Leadership Forum Awards highlights the key business
Forum Awards is Asia’s premier showcase of exemplary business enterprise
qualities of entrepreneurship, philanthropy, sustainability, integrity,
in the dynamic business sectors of Industry, Infrastructure and Energy - the
excellence, commitment and innovation, which are the mainstays of a
key drivers of the global economy.
world-class organisation.
The ABLF Awards brings together the Asian nations of the world in an annual
With a vast, unique mix of delegates and decision-makers from international
event series that celebrates the rise of Asia in the global consciousness
industries, the Asian Business Leadership Forum Awards focus on emerging
through revival of old-school values for a brand new ‘global business world’.
high growth areas of the global economy. The mission of the ABLF Awards is to promote outstanding business practices, which demonstrate
The annual event honours and celebrates business achievers from across
environmental stewardship, economic vitality and social responsibility.
the three key regions of the Asian juggernaut - the Gulf, India and South81
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PROCESS THE PROCESS
The ABLF Awards features a single window interface, www.ablfawards.�com,
The web portal is also the nomination centre for the Awards. Over a two-
which hosts the Awards story, background, mandate and process, making it
month campaign, the website drew over 20,000 unique visitors and more
a completely integrated information and activation epicentre for the ABLF
than 50,000 nominations across three award categories. Once nominations
Awards. The website is the one-stop resource centre for all information
closed, the ABLF team shortlisted nominees that matched the criteria for
related to the event, featuring profiles of the Winners, the Presenters,
each award category. Shortlisted names were sent to the jury. The winners
Supporters and Associates, details of the grand awards ceremony, the ABLF
were announced at the glittering ABLF Awards ceremony on November 27,
Grand Jury, and pictures from the event.
2012 at the beautiful St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
82 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF THE ABLF AWARDS AGENDA
JUNE 1, 2012 Launch of the new look of the ABLF Awards web portal – www.ablfawards.com
JUNE 1 – JULY 31, 2012 ABLF Awards nomination campaign
ABLF Awards Website Screenshot
AUGUST 20 – AUGUST 30, 2012 Jury deliberation and selection of the ABLF Awards winners
“This is an enormous logistics exercise if nothing else, to be able to screen all the applications that come in for the awards, to be able to put the jury together, to be able to get everybody to a place like
NOVEMBER 27, 2012 The Grand Awards Ceremony at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi to launch this event, and I hope to see the ABLF Series going from strength to strength.” MR PRADEEP SINGH Vice Chairman & CEO, IDFC Projects, India
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 83
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GRAND JURY THE GRAND JURY
AN INTERNATIONAL GLOBAL ADVISORY OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC POLICY LEADERS
The ABLF Awards Grand Jury consisted of a high-profile group of industry experts, economic commentators and international leaders from government, business, academics, advisory and other professional disciplines. Bringing a wealth of multi-disciplinary expertise and industry knowledge, the panel honoured 17 outstanding individuals from across Asia whose successes are inextricably linked to the prosperity of the entire region.
84 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
MR T.K.A. NAIR Advisor to the Prime Minister of India
H.E. MOHAMED HELAL AL MUHAIRI
ABLF
MR RAJIV LUTHRA Founder & Managing Partner, Luthra & Luthra Law Offices, India
H.E. KHALIL ABDULLAH AL KHONJI
Director General, Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE
Chairman, Federation of GCC Chamber of Commerce and Oman Chamber of Commerce & Industry
DR TAYEB KAMALI
MR NAVEEN JINDAL
Vice Chancellor, Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE
Chairman, Jindal Steel and Power Ltd., India
MR RAJIV SINGH
MR PRANAV ADANI
Vice Chairman, DLF Limited, India
Managing Director, Agro and Oil & Gas, Adani Group, India
DR RAJIV LALL
MR ADI GODREJ
Managing Director & CEO, IDFC Limited, India
Chairman, Godrej Group, India
H.E. M.K. LOKESH
DR P. MOHAMED ALI
Indian Ambassador to the UAE
Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Galfar Engineering & Contracting SAOG, Oman
H.E. SALMAN AL FARISI
MR CHANDRAJIT BANERJEE
Indonesian Ambassador to the UAE
Director General, Confederation of Indian Industry, India
H.E. PIT CHEN LOW Charge D’Affaires, Singapore Embassy, UAE
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 85
NOVEMBER 27, 2012 ST. REGIS SAADIYAT ISLAND RESORT, ABU DHABI 86 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
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The second edition of the Asian Business Leadership Forum Series
tonight’s celebration is an expression of both our pride and our gratitude.
culminated in an outstanding evening of celebration on November 27,
It is also a celebration of the values we share and hold dear. By honouring
2012 at the beautiful St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
the winners tonight, we declare that we value honesty, commitment, public
Attended by Asia’s leading business icons, entrepreneurs and policy-
service, and dedication to the common good.”
makers, the Asian Business Leadership Forum Awards was a glittering success. The evening celebrated exemplary contributions in the fields of
One of the highlights of the evening was a note sent by the Honourable
Industry, Infrastructure and Energy.
Prime Minister of India, Dr Manmohan Singh, congratulating the ABLF Series on drawing attention to the sectors of Industry, Infrastructure and Energy.
The dazzling awards event started with a powerful opening address by H.H.
In his note, Dr Singh said he appreciates the timing of such an initiative and
Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, who was received at the event by Ms
wrote, “It is all the more important that we work in a focused manner to
Malini Menon, Founder and Managing Director of Indian Expressions. His
strengthen these sectors. Without doing so we cannot achieve high rates of
THE GRAND AWARDS CEREMONY Highness warmly welcomed the guests who had flown to the UAE to attend
economic growth and also cannot generate productive employment for our
the event, saying, “Your visit reflects our collective economic aspirations
young men and women. I am sure that the efforts of the ABLF Series will
and deep desire to enhance the prosperity of our countries. It illustrates
result in new ideas on how to move forward in these areas.”
your strong commitment to strengthening trade and investment relations in the region. Your presence also highlights our joint resolve to continue
The President of India, H.E. Pranab Mukherjee, sent his best wishes to the
working hard to ensure that economic progress in Asia and the Gulf keep
organisers and winners of the prestigious ABLF Awards through his Press
pace with economic developments around the world.”
Secretary Mr Venu Rajamony. In his message, the President commended this business event that brings together South-East Asia, Gulf and India and
He also said, “This evening’s celebration reflects our confidence in the work
sent his warmest congratulations to the 2012 winners.
of ABLF as well as our confidence in the bright future that lies ahead for the economies of Asian countries. All of you who are here this evening
As the evening drew to a close, guests networked over a beautifully crafted
are individuals who embrace change, creativity and vitality, and who want
silver service dinner by the St. Regis master chefs, and were entertained by
to help advance and strengthen the economic performance of Asian
Brazilian fire dancers while enjoying the autumn breeze on an ocean facing
countries. These awards are a statement of our collective confidence in
stone patio, elegantly branded and appointed.
Asian business leaders. The awards bring into focus the winners’ work and
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 87
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Elegant & Extravagant; the Awards ceremony set-up
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KEYNOTE ADDRESS
H.H. SHEIKH NAHAYAN MABARAK AL NAHAYAN MINISTER OF CULTURE, YOUTH AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, UAE FORMER MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, UAE
90 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF “Good Evening, Your Excellencies, friends and colleagues, ladies and gentlemen. It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates for the Asian Business Leadership Forum Awards night. I am delighted to have the opportunity to meet and address this distinguished group of government and business leaders from Asia. To all of our visitors, I extend a most warm welcome to the United Arab Emirates. Your visit reflects our collective economic aspirations and deep desire to enhance the prosperity of our countries. It illustrates your strong commitment to strengthening trade and investment relations in the region. Your presence also highlights our joint resolve to continue working hard to ensure that economic progress in Asia and the Gulf keep pace with economic developments around the world.
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These leadership awards are a statement
”
of our collective confidence in Asian business leaders.
I am obviously very pleased that you have come to Abu Dhabi for this celebration. Choosing our city as the place to stage this unique event
We strive for competitive advantage in the regional and global marketplace.
recognises and celebrates the fact that Abu Dhabi has a prominently
We regard our role in fostering regional and global development and
high profile in world markets. Your decision to assemble in Abu Dhabi
cooperation in a deeply serious way. National and regional growth is
also highlights and celebrates the leadership of both His Highness, the
one of our most important priorities. Such growth requires economic
President, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahayan, and His Highness Sheikh
cooperation in all regions of the world. The vitality of the global economic
Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahayan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy
order is dependent on this cooperation, a cooperation signified by tonight’s
Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Your presence in Abu Dhabi
gathering of the Asian Business Leadership Forum.
in effect values their tireless work for development and prosperity. We are greatly inspired by their vision for Abu Dhabi and the United Arab
I congratulate ABLF for recognising Abu Dhabi with a special award this
Emirates. Under their enlightened leadership, Abu Dhabi is an integral
evening. Abu Dhabi is moving forward with plans and strategies to become
part of the global economy. It has become a model environment that
a world capital that is able to innovate, to maintain vigorous growth, to
allows businesses to succeed and flourish. Our economy continues to
create prosperity, and to bring together people, government, private and
grow at a steady and rapid rate. The UAE is a major centre of commerce,
public institutions to create a vibrant, successful, and balanced society.
focusing on international trade, tourism, finance, information technology, sustainability, and media. The economy is highly competitive, transparent,
Ladies and gentlemen, I fully support the premise of ABLF: that the growing
and supportive of business and entrepreneurs.
stature of the Asian economies has major global ramifications and holds
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 91
ABLF great potential. Asia is developing rapidly. Many Asian countries are moving
our pride and our gratitude. It is also a celebration of the values we share
quickly from Third World to First World status. There is a clear determination
and hold dear. By honouring the winners tonight, we declare that we value
in the region to improve the business and economic environments, to
honesty, commitment, public service, and dedication to the common
promote growth and development, and to encourage innovation and
good. We also declare that we are indeed inspired by the example of these
development at all levels.
leaders. We are truly privileged to celebrate these awards and applaud all the winners for their fine example.
The work of ABLF celebrates regional and international dialogue and cooperation to promote growth and create a better future for the region.
Ladies and gentlemen, once again, I welcome all of you. You are part of a
This evening’s celebration reflects our confidence in the work of ABLF as
network of regional and international leaders working together for a better
well as our confidence in the bright future that lies ahead for the economies
economic future. For those of you who have come from other countries,
of Asian countries. All of you who are here this evening are individuals
I hope your time in the United Arab Emirates is enjoyable and rewarding.
who embrace change, creativity, and vitality and who want to help
For every one of you, I hope that this gathering results in connections
advance and strengthen the economic performance of Asian countries. As
and partnerships that will grow and flourish for years to come. To ABLF,
government officials, and as businessmen and women, we all look forward
I congratulate you for your excellent contribution to our economic lives
to further success and cooperation in trade and investment and economic
and for hosting this highly successful celebration. And to the recipients of
development. I believe strongly that our business and economic linkages
tonight’s awards, congratulations and thank you for your example and for
can contribute to greater participation and influence in the global economy
your contributions to our economic prosperity.
for both Asian and Gulf countries. I am confident that the presence of so many able Asian leaders here this Ladies and gentlemen, let us reflect on the nature of the honour that these
evening will help strengthen Asian economic success. I am also hopeful that
awards we celebrate this evening bestow on their recipients. Many awards
by working together, we will help promote the creation of viable regional
recognise specific achievements and set clear benchmarks that people can
markets and enhance the ability of our countries to attract joint ventures
aim for. The ABLF Awards, by contrast, recognise sustained dedication and
and investments.
commitment, as well as lifetime achievements. They honour the fact that the winners have put excellence, wisdom, common sense, and a generous
Thank you again for the opportunity to address you this evening. I thank
spirit to work for the public interest in a lifelong pursuit.
the organisers, the sponsors, and all who worked to put this event together.
At the same time, these leadership awards are a statement of our collective
Thank you.”
confidence in Asian business leaders. The awards bring into focus the winners’ work and give us a chance to thank them and appreciate their contributions to our lives. Tonight’s celebration is an expression of both
92 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
“
ABLF Many awards recognise specific achievements and set clear benchmarks that people can aim for. The ABLF Awards, by contrast, recognise sustained dedication and commitment, as well as lifetime achievements. They honour the fact that the winners
�
have put excellence, wisdom, common sense, and a generous spirit to work for the public interest in a lifelong pursuit.
93
ABLF
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
H.E. DR THAKSIN SHINAWATRA FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF THAILAND
94 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF “Your Highness Sheikh Nahayan, Your Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, first of all I would like to thank the Grand Jury for granting me this prestigious award. I would also like to thank His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan; besides giving me sanctuary during exile, tonight, he has given me dignity.
I would like to commend the Asian Business Leadership Forum Awards
“
During a financial crisis, we need to create
”
jobs, we need banks to be able to lend and we need people to be able to spend.
for organising this Asia-wide initiative. An Asia-wide platform has not been created for many years. I initiated Asia cooperation dialogue during my tenure as Prime Minister in 2003 and invited all the Asian countries to join.
I don’t have to go into a lot of detail but I initiated a lot of programs that
That was for a political track; but for the business track, the Asian Business
help people, for instance, healthcare - the Thai people can now go to the
Leadership Forum is a good platform to bring business people together.
hospital and pay only 30 Baht per visit, or US$ 1. So even if they have to be admitted to the hospital or require heart surgery, they only pay US$ 1. This
Asia is a very important part of the world; we have more than half the
is the way we managed healthcare in Thailand.
population of the world, and we also have more than half of the foreign reserves of the world, so this is definitely the Asian Century. The word
Also, the village fund we organised in Thailand is totally different. We give
CHIME is being used often now, which comes from China, India, and the
US$ 33,000 per village to the people and let them manage themselves
Middle East. The three countries and regions are known to be rich enough
instead of us trying to manage them and we help them find more income
to buy everything in the world now.
for themselves by using their skills for additional income so they can get out of poverty quickly. The way we do it is by expanding the tax base of
I would like to share with you what I had done after the financial crisis in
the Thai people and at the end of my term, the VAT was much higher than
Thailand. My concept was to encourage ideas for a turnaround from the
before the crisis.
business sector, the private sector and also the population. Poverty in Thailand had risen from 14 percent to 21 percent in 1997, but I managed to
So during a financial crisis, we need to create jobs, we need banks to be
bring that down to less than 8 percent when I left office. The reason I had to
able to lend, and we need people to be able to spend - that was my idea, my
do that is because of the people - if the people have a good livelihood, they
philosophy, during my administration. I don’t want to take up more of your
can produce more for the country. That is why we concentrated on how
time because we are running late but I want to thank the Jury for seeing my
we could cut expenses and increase the income, and how we could create
work even though I am still in exile.
new opportunities for them. We created a lot of programs to help people reduce their expenses and increase their income, including bringing new
I feel very inferior sometimes when in exile, but tonight, the ABLF, and
additional income to them.
especially Sheikh Nahayan have given me dignity. Thank you very much.”
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 95
THE WINNERS
The iconic ABLF Awards trophy is a 13-inch, 24-carat gold-plated masterpiece. Intricately embossed, the traditional silhouette is embedded with signature precious gemstones - Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald - each reflecting the qualities specific to the distinguished category and its recipients.
ABLF GLOBAL ASIAN AWARD ABLF STATESMAN AWARD THE GULF • INDIA • SOUTH-EAST ASIA
ABLF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD THE GULF • INDIA • SOUTH-EAST ASIA
ABLF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD THE GULF • INDIA • SOUTH-EAST ASIA
ABLF WOMAN OF POWER AWARD THE GULF • INDIA • SOUTH-EAST ASIA
ABLF BUSINESS COURAGE AWARD THE GULF • INDIA • SOUTH-EAST ASIA
ABLF TRAILBLAZER AWARD
The ABLF Global Asian is a powerful individual whose business footprint and commitment to excellence have engaged international interest and attention. A visionary with an unswerving commitment to his/her business, his/her country and the region, the ABLF Global Asian is a game changer who has earned his/her place in the highest echelons of the business community.
ABLF GLOBAL ASIAN AWARD 98 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
CRITERIA 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
By relevance to context: Presence in the Industry, Infrastructure or Energy sectors By leadership: Legendary innings. An example to a generation of achievers By wealth-creation/management: Business revenues and exploring new avenues By brand-creation/management: Building and sustaining a business brand with a global presence By endurance quotient: Steady growth and advancement in business across a decade Responsibility: Dovetails sustainability principles into business operations Accountability: Follows corporate governance norms and promotes employee welfare initiatives
8
Accolades and recognition: National and international awards
9
Grace: History and capability of handling business setbacks
10
11
12
13
14
15
Strong employer: Company with human resource strength of over 20,000 internationally Philanthropy: Publicly documented contribution toward community, national and global altruistic initiatives Ambassadorship: Promotes and upholds his/her country’s values in international environments Mentorship: Perceived as a mentor and demonstrates appropriate qualities Knowledge-driven: Active interest and awareness in matters of global and national consequence Participatory: Contribution to event space and occasions that have global relevance
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 99
ABLF GLOBAL ASIAN AWARD
MOHAMMED ALABBAR CHAIRMAN, EMAAR PROPERTIES, UAE
100 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
One of the Middle East’s most respected and renowned businessmen,
He has been named ‘Middle East Personality of the Year,’ by FDi
Mr Mohamed Ali Alabbar is the Founder and Chairman of Dubai-based
magazine, published by the Financial Times Group, while Arabian
real estate giant Emaar Properties PJSC - developer of the world’s tallest
Business, the leading regional business magazine, ranked him fourth
tower, the Burj Khalifa.
in the 2012 list of ‘Power 500: The World’s Most Influential Arabs,’ and honoured him as ‘Businessman of the Year’ 2011. A sought-after
Born in Dubai, educated in the US and with experience across all
speaker at international forums and on broadcast networks worldwide,
continents, Mr Alabbar has extensive expertise in varied business
Mr Alabbar was awarded an honorary doctoral degree in humanities
sectors spanning real estate, banking and finance, shopping malls and
from his alma mater, Seattle University.
retail, hospitality and tourism. He heads Emaar’s joint venture with
“
Our strategy for 2012 is to further increase the share of revenues from global operations
”
and enhance the proportion of profit from recurring revenue streams, including shopping malls, retail, hospitality and leisure.
Italy’s Giorgio Armani to set up the Armani-branded luxury hotel and
Currently, Mr Alabbar is spearheading Emaar’s strategy of worldwide
resort chain in key international destinations. Emaar has now been
expansion and business segmentation into healthcare, education,
mandated, along with Dubai Holding, to develope the Mohammed Bin
hospitality, leisure, shopping malls and financial services. Today, the
Rashid City, the largest real estate project in the Middle East region,
company has a significant presence in 16 countries spanning the Middle
described as a ‘city within a city’. Mr Alabbar is also the Chairman of
East, North Africa, South Asia, Europe and North America.
RSH, the leading Singapore-based pan-Asian marketer, distributor and retailer of international fashion and lifestyle brands.
Mr Alabbar works closely with regional NGOs, to create employment opportunities, develop small businesses and direct educational reform
He is revered for his pioneering role in positioning Dubai as a world-
programs in the region. A global entrepreneur and business strategist,
class city. He served as Director General of the Dubai Department of
Mr Mohamed Alabbar was the unanimous choice of the ABLF Awards
Economic Development, a member of the Dubai Executive Council and
Grand Jury for the ABLF Global Asian Award 2012.
Dubai Economic Council.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 101
The recipient of the ABLF Statesman Award is an inspirational achiever of government and public service. This leader’s innovative approach to the development of the key sectors of Industry, Infrastructure and Energy has shaped proactive and positive government policy. He/she is an inspirational achiever of government and public service, who actively contributes to the growth trajectory of his/her nation’s economy and international relations globally. This award recipient embodies compassion, corporate responsibility and civic service.
The ABLF Series introduced this category in 2012 on the recommendation of the ABLF Knowledge Partners; Luthra & Luthra Law Offices and Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman.
ABLF STATESMAN AWARD 102 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
CRITERIA 1
2
By relevance to context: Presence and governance in the Industry, Infrastructure or Energy sectors By endurance quotient: Steady growth and advancement in government across a decade
3
By leadership: Path-breaking and sustainable leadership
4
Inspirational: Powerful decision-maker
5
By innovation: Significant contribution to new business growth strategies
6
Reputation: Impeccable record
7
Innovation: Record of at least one pioneering initiative
8
Power network: Forges ground-breaking relationships
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
By influence: Lead presence at industry forums and related discussions Knowledge-driven: Active interest and awareness in matters of global and national consequence Ambassadorship: Promotes and upholds his/her country’s values in international environments Participatory: Contribution to event space and occasions that have global relevance Mentorship: Perceived as a mentor and demonstrates appropriate qualities Knowledge-driven: Lead presence at industry forums and related discussions Participatory: Contribution to event space and occasions that have global relevance
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 103
ABLF STATESMAN AWARD THE GULF
H.E. DHAEN AL HAMLI
FORMER MINISTER OF ENERGY, UAE
104 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
His Excellency Mohamed Bin Dhaen Al Hamli was the Minister of Energy from 2004 to 2013. His Excellency is also member of the Advisory Committee of the Supreme Petroleum Council, Vice Chairman of the International Petroleum Investment Company, Chairman of the Federal Authority for Water and Electricity, Chairman of the Emirates General Petroleum Corporation(EMARAT), Vice Chairman of the Abu Dhabi National Chemicals Company, and board member of Cosmo Oil Company, Japan. H.E. Dhaen Al Hamli has more than thirty years of extensive experience in the oil and gas industry. He was Chairman of the Hyundai Oil Bank Company in South Korea between 2005 and 2008 and the Emirates General Petroleum Corporation between 2004 and 2010. He served as board member of the Higher Corporation for Specialised Economic Zones from 2004 to 2008 and the Abu Dhabi Retirement Pensions and Benefits Fund from 2000 2004. Prior to that, he worked as Director of Marketing and Refining, Director of Personnel, Director of Marketing, and Director of Finance of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company. His Excellency also served as United Arab Emirates Governor for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and has worked as Assistant General Manager at the Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company. H.E. Dhaen Al Hamli obtained a Higher Diploma in Business Administration in 1976, a Certificate in Chartered Auditing in 1979, and a Higher Diploma (Higher Studies) in Advanced Management and Chartered Accounting in 1988 from the UK and the USA.
“
The United Arab Emirates and, indeed, OPEC firmly believe that with the right mix of technology, incentives and cooperation, continued oil production
”
and consumption need not come at the expense of the environment.
H.E. Dhaen Al Hamli has dedicated his ten-year term as the UAE’s Minister of Energy, and his efforts in the oil and gas sector to ensuring the country’s commitment to producing a stable, secure and reasonably priced supply of oil and minimising its carbon footprint. His hard work coupled with his knowledge and innovation make him an ideal recipient of the ABLF Statesman Award.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 105
ABLF STATESMAN AWARD INDIA
H.E. KAMAL NATH MINISTER OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT & MINISTER OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS, INDIA
106 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
H.E. Kamal Nath is India’s Minister of Urban Development and
the National Policy on Ecological Conservation and the Abatement
Parliamentary Affairs. To address the growing urban infrastructure
of Pollution. His tenure as Environment & Forests Minister of India is
challenge in India, he aims to create economically vibrant, inclusive,
still remembered for his remarkable achievements in myriad areas,
efficient and sustainable urban habitats. As Minister of Parliamentary
particularly in that of environmental awareness and sustainable
Affairs, he is responsible for the smooth conduct of business in both the
development, when he succeeded in blunting the confrontation between
Houses of Parliament.
environmental concern and economic development.
In his previous capacity as the Minister of Road Transport and Highways
During his tenure as Textiles Minister from 1995-1996, the country
from 2009- 2011, Minister Nath created significant momentum in
touched new heights in the production and export of cotton and the
the development of national highways. The pace of national highway
New Textiles Policy was successfully launched leading to an all-time high
development crossed 12 kilometres a day and work in progress of 16,000
export of garments and fabrics.
kilometres was created. As Commerce & Industry Minister of India from 2004-2009, Minister Nath enunciated India’s first comprehensive
As a first-time Member of Parliament, Minister Nath represented India
Foreign Trade Policy, laying out a coherent roadmap with a twin focus
at the United Nations General Assembly in 1982 and 1983. He also
“
I accept the ABLF Statesman Award – India with appreciation and humility and I thank the ABLF Grand Jury and Strategic Advisory Panel for this recognition. The Gulf, India and
”
South-East Asia are among the fastest growing regions in the world and the contribution of key sectors such as Industry, Infrastructure and Energy must be highlighted.
on exports as well as employment. He was successful in tripling India’s
attended the International Parliamentary Union Conferences held in
foreign trade within this period and engineering a seven-fold increase
Nicaragua, Guatemala and Cyprus.
in FDI in-flows to India and significant strides were made in the areas of Intellectual Property and Industrial Design.
He has also immensely contributed to higher education in his capacity as the President of Board of Governors of Institute of Management
His firm grasp of economic issues and consummate diplomatic skills
Technology (IMT) at Ghaziabad, Nagpur, Hyderabad and Dubai.
were evident in the World Trade Organisation negotiations, where he emerged as one of the chief architects of the G-20 and G-33 Alliances
H.E. Kamal Nath’s unrivalled growth teamed with his diplomatic prowess
and the NAMA 11.
has earned him the title of one of India’s most respected ambassadors. His continuing contribution to the infrastructural planning and
Minister Nath was first inducted into the Union Council of Ministers in
development of the country and his significant growth in its government
1991. During his four year tenure as Minister of Environment & Forests
secured the ABLF Statesman Award for Minister Nath.
of India, he made a remarkable contribution to the development of
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 107
ABLF STATESMAN AWARD SOUTH-EAST ASIA
H.E. DR THAKSIN SHINAWATRA FORMER PRIME MINISTER, THAILAND
108 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
From a policeman, to a billionaire telecommunications executive, to
gave US$ 33,000 each to Thailand’s 80,000 small towns to fund low-
former Prime Minister of Thailand, H.E. Dr Thaksin Shinawatra is a
cost loans to villagers. His economic policies, known as Thaksinomics,
strong leader in a country not known for strong leaders. He delivered on
helped the economy boom; Thailand’s gross domestic product jumped
his promises to help Thailand’s rural poor and his policies and decisive
by 22 percent in the first four years he was in office. Critics warned
style won over most Thais.
that Thais were becoming debt-ridden and dependent on government handouts, but when he ran for another term in early 2005, the economy
He worked in the family business and studied to become a police officer,
was continuing to grow and those originally sceptical of him largely
graduating at the top of his police cadet class, and won a government
supported him.
scholarship to study abroad. When he returned to Thailand, he advanced to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the police force and began supplying
When the tsunami struck in 2004, Thailand responded quicker than
the police department with computer software in 1982.
other Asian nations, moving food and first-aid teams into coastal areas right away. Several factors helped Thailand respond, including better
In 1987, he left the police force and started his telecommunications
medical and transportation networks than other countries and less
company, the Shinawatra Company, which sold computer software and
widespread damage, but observers credited Dr Shinawatra’s strong
“
soon expanded into cable television, satellites, data communications
leadership as another factor.
I would like to thank the Grand Jury for granting me this prestigious award. I would
”
also like to thank His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan; besides giving me sanctuary during exile, tonight, he has given me dignity.
networks, and mobile phone services. Eventually, his company made
It was no surprise when Thaksin’s Thai Rak Thai Party won about 375
him one of Thailand’s richest men.
of the 500 seats in the Thai parliament in February of 2005. That made Thaksin the first Prime Minister to lead an elected government through
He left the company in 1994 to enter politics, becoming Minister of Foreign
a full four-year term.
Affairs as part of the Palang Dharma Party. His goal, he proclaimed, was to clean up politics in his country. He founded the Thai Rak Thai (Thai
Protests in 2006 led to the dissolving of Dr Thaksin Shinawatra’s
Love Thai) Party in 1998, and it quickly came to dominate Thai elections
government. Yingluck Shinawatra, Dr. Thaksin Shinawatra’s sister, is the
and he was elected Prime Minister in 2001. When Dr Thaksin Shinawatra
current Prime Minister of Thailand.
took office, Thailand was recovering from the Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s and needed to adjust to the changing global economy.
Dr.
Shinawatra’s
revolutionary
economic,
healthcare,
anti-drug,
His focus on the countryside and the poor had the benefit of building
education and energy policies, as well as the administrative reform he
a more self-sufficient economy, less dependent on the export market.
brought to Thailand during his term as Prime Minster to the country, have led to the Grand Jury choosing him for the ABLF Statesman Award.
Dr Shinawatra quickly delivered on his promise of cheap health care. He also helped the rural poor with a US$ 2 billion Village Fund that
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 109
The ABLF Lifetime Achievement Award is a heartfelt felicitation of a true visionary. This achiever wields his/her immense influence to mentor a generation of business leaders with old world wisdom and sharp business acumen. Consistently placing team, community and country on his/her lead agenda, this leader is driven by his/her vision to leave the world a better place than he/she found it, and has spent a lifetime nurturing and sharing values of excellence, innovation and sustainability alongside social responsibilities and philanthropy. He/she embodies the spirit of life, light and inspiration, an individual whose name and good work is destined to go down in the brightest annals of history.
ABLF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 110 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
CRITERIA 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
By relevance to context: Presence in the Industry, Infrastructure or Energy sectors By leadership: Path-breaking and sustainable leadership By wealth-creation/management: Business revenues and exploring new avenues By brand-creation/management: Building and sustaining a business brand with a global presence By endurance quotient: Steady growth and advancement in business across a decade Responsibility: Dovetails sustainability principles into business operations Accountability: Follows corporate governance norms and promotes employee welfare initiatives
8
Accolades and recognition: National and international awards
9
Grace: History and capability of handling business setbacks
10
Inspirational: To a new generation of business minds
11
12
13
14
15
Philanthropy: Publicly documented contribution toward altruistic initiatives Knowledge-driven: Lead presence at industry forums and related discussions Ambassadorship: Promotes and upholds his/her country’s values in international environments Mentorship: Perceived as a mentor and demonstrates appropriate qualities Participatory: Contribution to event space and occasions that have global relevance
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 111
ABLF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD THE GULF
DR OMAR BIN ABDUL MUNIEM AL ZAWAWI
FOUNDER & CHAIRMAN, OMAR ZAWAWI ESTABLISHMENT (OMZEST), OMAN
112 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Founder and Chairman of the OMZEST Group, His Excellency Dr Omar Bin Abdul Muniem Al Zawawi has been the spearhead for the group’s rapid growth to its present position of eminence as one of Oman’s premier and diversified business groups. With business volumes exceeding US$ 1 billion in merely 40 years, OMZEST has grown to over 75 wholly owned and associate companies, with five main business activities and exports to over 95 countries. The group’s activities cover manufacturing, services, banking and finance, construction and contracting, trading as well as training and education.
Since graduating in Medicine in 1958 from the Cairo University and with a Masters of Public Health in 1964 from Harvard, H.E. Dr Zawawi has worked as a Special Advisor to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said in the field of diplomatic affairs since 1975, and has also been a member of the Financial Affairs and Energy Resources Council of Oman.
H.E. Dr. Zawawi has also been the Founder and Ex-Chairman for leading commercial entities in the country including the Oman International Bank, Muscat Insurance Company, Oman Textile Mills, Al Khuwair Development and Services, Reem Batteries and Power Appliances.
H.E. Dr. Zawawi is renowned and has assisted in furthering external relations, a testament to which are the multiple titles that have been bestowed upon him by various countries such as, the ‘Grand Order of Merit First Class’ by the Republic of Austria; the ‘Grand Cordon of the Order
“
It was very flattering to be awarded the ABLF trophy. It is quite an honour. I wish
”
to express my thanks and appreciation to all concerned.
of the Sacred Treasure’ by Japan; the ‘Knight Commander (of the Order) of Saint Michael and Saint George’ (KCMG) by the United Kingdom; the ‘Order of the Northern Star’ by Sweden; the President’s Medal, Georgetown University, USA; and last but not the least, the ‘Sitara-i-Quaid-i-Azam’ by Pakistan.
H.E. Dr. Omar Zawawi’s achievements, his vision for OMZEST, and his continued contribution to the progress of the Sultanate of Oman, make him a truly deserving recipient of the ABLF Lifetime Achievement Award.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 113
ABLF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD INDIA
BABA KALYANI CHAIRMAN, KALYANI GROUP, INDIA
114 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Mr Baba Kalyani is the Chairman of the Kalyani Group, and Chairman and
developing a unique hybrid solution that will contribute in the country
Managing Director of the group’s flagship company – Bharat Forge Limited
being able to meet its vehicular emission targets.
- India’s largest manufacturer and exporter of automotive components. Mr Kalyani’s significant contributions to industry and the community The Kalyani Group’s business interests are in specialty steel,
have been recognised through various prestigious awards. Notable
forgings, auto components, infrastructure, specialty chemicals and
among these are the ‘Padma Bhushan’, one of the most distinguished
renewable energy. The group’s annual turnover is US$ 2.5 billion
civilian awards by the Government of India for his contributions to trade
and it has joint ventures with leading global companies that include
and industry, ‘Cross of the Order of Merit’, the highest honour awarded
ArvinMeritor, Carpenter Technology Corporation, Hayes Lemmerz,
to individuals for their admirable services to the Federal Republic of
FAW Corporation, Gerdau SA, etc.
Germany, and the ‘Commander First Class of the Royal Order of the Polar Star’ by the Swedish government in recognition of his contribution
Mr Kalyani joined Bharat Forge in 1972 and under his leadership,
in furthering trade and business cooperation between Sweden and
it has transformed into a global company with 11 manufacturing
India among others.
facilities spread across India, USA, Europe and China. Mr Kalyani pioneered the export of automobile components from India to China
Mr Kalyani’s strong entrepreneurial capabilities, his skillful expansion
in 2002. Bharat Forge’s global customer base is perhaps the most
into new sectors, and his ability to transform Bharat Forge from a Pune-
comprehensive in the forging industry, comprising 38 automobile
based auto component maker to a global leader in the forging industry,
manufacturers besides several tier suppliers to the industry.
are all deciding factors in the Grand Jury conferring him with the ABLF Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mr Kalyani serves on the boards of many prestigious companies and represents the sector at several industry, trade and educational institutions in India and abroad. Notable amongst these are the National Manufacturing Competitiveness Council and the National Knowledge Commission.
Mr Kalyani is the Founder Chairman of Pratham Pune Education Foundation, an NGO that is engaged in providing primary education to under privileged children. He is also steering a unique initiative to empower rural youth in Pune district by providing free technical and vocational training at a government industrial training institute that is run as a public-private partnership.
In pursuance of his vision to contribute to a clean and emission free environment, Mr Kalyani has set up a new venture to manufacture various energy efficient wind turbines for domestic and international markets. In a joint venture with KPIT Cummins, Bharat Forge is
“
I am extremely humbled to be receiving this prestigious award. I am also very grateful that amongst the tall leaders of Asia, this recognition
”
has come to me and I thank the ABLF for the honour.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 115
ABLF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD SOUTH-EAST ASIA
KISHORE MAHBUBANI DEAN; PROFESSOR IN THE PRACTICE OF PUBLIC POLICY, LEE KUAN YEW SCHOOL OF PUBLIC POLICY, SINGAPORE
116 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Mr Kishore Mahbubani is the Dean and Professor in the Practice of Public Policy at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy of the National University of Singapore. Concurrently, Mr Mahbubani serves on boards and councils of several institutions in Singapore, Europe and North America, including the Yale President’s Council on International Activities, the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs, the Indian Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council, the University of Bocconi International Advisory Committee, the World Economic Forum - Global Agenda Council on China, and is the Chairman of the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize Nominating Committee.
Mr Mahbubani has published and spoken in all corners of the world and is the author of Can Asians Think?, Beyond the Age of Innocence: Rebuilding Trust Between America and the World, and The New Asian Hemisphere: the Irresistible Shift of Global Power to the East. His new book will be The Great
“
It is a great honour for me to receive the ABLF Lifetime Achievement Award. I am particularly pleased that this
Convergence: Asia, the West and the Logic of One World.
award recognises individuals for their
Professor Mahbubani was awarded the President’s Scholarship in 1967.
contribution to Asia’s development.
He was conferred the Public Administration Medal (Gold) by the Singapore Government in 1998. The Foreign Policy Association Medal was awarded to him in New York in June 2004 with the following opening words in the citation: “A gifted diplomat, a student of history and philosophy, a provocative writer and an intuitive thinker.”
Mr Mahbubani was also listed as one of the top 100 public intellectuals in the world by Foreign Policy and Prospect magazines in September 2005, and included in the 2009 Financial Times list of Top 50 individuals who would shape the debate on the future of capitalism. Most recently, Mr Mahbubani was selected as one of Foreign Policy’s Top Global Thinkers in 2010 and 2011.
Popularly described as ‘the muse of the Asian Century’ by intellectuals
In
recognising
the
outstanding
contributions made by Asian leaders in a variety of spheres, the Awards will help to spur Asia’s development even
”
faster. I wish the ABLF great success in the coming years.
across the board, Professor Mahbubani has proved himself an inspirational thinker and mentor; the ABLF Lifetime Achievement Award honours his academic expertise and strong presence in policy-making.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 117
The ABLF Woman of Power effortlessly straddles a traditional and conventional social environment and a cutting-edge modern business world, is commanding, influential and embodies the culture and values of Asia. She is committed to excellence and innovation, and maintains healthy interpersonal relationships within her business environment. Above all, she is an achiever who cherishes family and community values and achieves a balance between her work and her home, and is held as a role model for women achievers around the world. The ABLF Awards celebrates the women of Asia who command respect and admiration globally for their effective role in the new Asian business space.
ABLF WOMAN OF POWER AWARD 118 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
CRITERIA 1
By relevance to context: Presence in the Industry, Infrastructure or Energy sectors
2
By leadership: Inspiring leadership and an example for young women in business
3
By contribution: Key member of a decision-making team
4
By innovation: Significant contribution to new business growth strategies
5
Responsibility: Dovetails sustainability principles into business operations
6
Inspirational: To a new generation of business minds and as an exemplary role model for young women
7
Accolades and recognition: National and international awards
8
Accountability: Follows corporate governance norms and promotes employee welfare initiatives
9
Grace: History and capability of handling business setbacks
10
Philanthropy: Publicly documented contribution toward altruistic initiatives
11
Path-blazer: History-making presence in industry
12
Mentorship: Perceived as a mentor by a generation of young women and demonstrates appropriate qualities
13
Activist: Supports women's issues in business and society
14
Ambassadorship: Promotes and upholds his/her country’s values in international environments
15
Participatory: Contribution to event space and occasions that have global relevance
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 119
ABLF WOMAN OF POWER AWARD THE GULF
RAJA EASA AL GURG
MANAGING DIRECTOR, EASA SALEH AL GURG GROUP, UAE
120 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Ms Raja Easa Al Gurg, Managing Director of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg
as the President of the Dubai Business Women Council. She was also a
Group, is a well-known businesswoman in the Middle East. She has
member of the Family Business Panel during the American University of
achieved laurels for her stellar leadership of the group and counsel and
Sharjah’s Business Forum.
her valuable insights have significantly contributed to the growth and Ms Al Gurg, who is ranked fifth in the list of the ‘100 Most Powerful
expansion of ESAG.
Arab Women 2012,’ compiled by CEO Middle East; was ranked 58th in A leading business woman in her own right, Ms Al Gurg has carved a unique
the list of the ‘World’s Most Influential Arabs’ in the Arabian Business
niche for herself in the region due to her support and encouragement
2012 Power 500 listing. She was also given the ‘Most Influential Arab
of Arab women entrepreneurs. She is the President of Dubai Business
Woman in Family Business’ award at the Forbes Middle East CEO’s
Women Council; Deputy Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Dubai
Forum 2012. Forbes International also listed her as the fourth most
“
I am deeply honoured to be a recipient of the ABLF Woman of Power Award. Accolades such as these inspire me to empower more women to achieve success in their chosen fields. I believe that desire is the key to motivation, but it’s the determination and commitment
”
to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal, a commitment to excellence that will enable you to attain the success you seek.
Healthcare City Authority; a board member of the Dubai chamber of
‘Powerful Arab Businesswoman’ in 2006. She has earned several other
commerce & Industry (DCCI) and Dubai Women’s Association. She holds
plaudits and awards in recent years. These include the ‘Stevie Award
memberships at the Dubai Economic Council, Arab International Women’s
for Women in Business’ in 2011 and the ‘World of Difference Award’
Forum, National Advisory Council and College of Business Sciences.
from the International Alliance for Women in 2009. Ms Al Gurg was also selected as the figure of the month, ‘The Mother of Pearl amongst
Ms Al Gurg represents the UAE at many international conferences and
Businesswomen’, by the Al Waref Institute for Humanitarian Studies in
round-tables as a keynote speaker and is also part of the Government
Washington in 2010.
of Dubai’s official delegation for various trade and commerce meetings. Her recent speaking engagements include keynote speeches at the fifth
Ms Al Gurg has played an integral role in raising the profile of Arab
German-Arab Health Forum in Munich and Women as Global Leaders
women in business, thus serving as inspiration to a whole new
Conference 2012, held at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi. Ms Al Gurg also
generation of young, impressionable Arab women, which makes her the
hosted the first MENA Businesswomen’s Network Forum in her capacity
ideal recipient of the ABLF Woman of Power Award.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 121
ABLF WOMAN OF POWER AWARD INDIA
MALLIKA SRINIVASAN
CHAIRMAN & CEO, TRACTORS AND FARM EQUIPMENT LIMITED (TAFE), INDIA
122 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Ms Mallika Srinivasan is a thought leader and a strategist, recognised for her contribution to the Indian agriculture machinery business and academia. She is presently the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TAFE (Tractors and Farm Equipment), a US$ 1.6 billion tractor major incorporated in 1960 in Chennai, India. TAFE exports to over 77 countries, including developed countries in Europe and the Americas.
In a span of 25 years, Ms Srinivasan has steadily built TAFE to become the world’s third largest tractor manufacturer, the country’s largest exporter of tractors and the most profitable tractor manufacturer in the world. She has skilfully managed to transform the organisation into a lean yet resilient machine when tractor industry volumes dropped by close to 50 percent in the early part of the previous decade by cutting down on costs yet ensuring that product and process development were unaffected. This ensured TAFE’s resurgence, once the market revived, with a slew of new products. She led the company’s growth to its present status with revenues of US$ 1.6 billion with diverse interests in tractors, farm machinery, diesel engines, engineering plastics, hydraulic pumps and cylinders, batteries, automobile franchises and plantations.
With a proven track record of propelling TAFE from an Indian
“
I am deeply privileged to receive the ABLF Woman of Power Award. The Award recognises and encourages the rapidly growing role of women in Asia’s economic development. Women bring to the corporate world unique perspectives and competencies, and represent a valuable talent pool that adds richness and diversity, while at an individual level they may continue to face challenges in
”
the varied socio-political environment that dots Asia.
tractor major to a global player facilitating exponential growth, and engineering a seamless takeover of Eicher Tractors in 2005 while ensuring improved operations and profits after the takeover, Ms
Her achievements in the years 2011 and 2012 are testimony to her
Srinivasan has consistently focused on ensuring consistent profitable
professionalism. In 2011, she was named among the ‘Six Most Powerful
growth that is inclusive of all stakeholders.
Women of India Inc.’ by Business Today; and recognised by Forbes Asia as one of the top ‘50 Asian Power Businesswomen.’ In 2012, the
A university gold-medallist in Econometrics from the University of
Economic Times named her among the ‘Top Women CEOs of India Inc.’,
Madras, she graduated as a member of the Dean’s Honour List,
and Forbes India awarded her the ‘Woman Leader of the Year’ award.
and the Alpha Beta Gamma Society from the University of Wharton,
Fortune India’s 2012 list featured Ms Srinivasan second among India’s
Pennsylvania and was ranked as one of the top 125 most successful
‘50 Most Powerful Women in Business.’
alumni of the Wharton School of Business. For her extraordinary contribution to her work and her country, and Ms Srinivasan has led a variety of industry bodies and is actively involved
for successfully spearheading a company in a field dominated by
in promoting Indian business in India and abroad. She advocates learning
men, Ms. Srinivasan does complete justice to the criteria for the ABLF
as an integral part of achieving organisational and individual excellence.
Woman of Power Award.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 123
ABLF WOMAN OF POWER AWARD SOUTH-EAST ASIA
SHINTA WIDJAJA KAMDANI
MANAGING DIRECTOR, SINTESA GROUP, INDONESIA
124 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Shinta Widjaja Kamdani is the Managing Director of the Sintesa Group, an Indonesian conglomerate of 17 subsidiaries with operations in consumer products, industrial products, real estate and the energy sector. Responsible for the overall management of the group’s activites, Ms Kamdani is duly credited for the significant expansion of the group’s business activations in Indonesia and for the subsequent international interest and investment in the group, thus creating a powerful domesticinternational bond in the country.
Graduated from Barnard College of Columbia University New York and in Executive Education at Harvard Business School, Boston, Massachusetts, Ms Kamdani is actively involved and is leading many social and business initiatives and organisations with social, environmental and community agendas. She is also the Vice President of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and holds various positions in distinguished non-profit organisations such as Chairwoman of the Employers’ Association of Indonesia (APINDO); President of Indonesia Business Council for Sustainable Development (IBCSD); Regional Executive Board of ASEAN’s Young Presidents Organization (YPO); Executive Board Member of Indonesian World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF Indonesia) and Indonesia Aids Foundation (YAI).
She was also instrumental in setting up the Global Entrepreneurship Program Indonesia (GEPI) in January 2011, with 13 other Indonesian entrepreneurs, and has been entrusted as Vice Chair of the GEPI. Its mission is to strengthen the growth of entrepreneurship in Indonesia and to act as a catalyst in the entrepreneurship strategy in the country, thus making global opportunities and investment prospects available for Indonesian entrepreneurs.
“
I believe that women of the world are on the rise and we are now in a much better position to not only achieve more, but also give more to the world. I am but one woman trying my best to be the best in what I do. I am certain there are more women out there, achieving or fighting more to have their
achievements
”
acknowledged.
With them, I share this award.
Ranked amongst the ‘50 Power Businesswomen across Asia’, Ms Kamdani has played an integral role in raising the profile of South-East Asian women in business, setting an example with performance and sheer determination, hence making her the ideal choice for the ABLF Woman of Power Award.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 125
The ABLF Business Excellence Award recognises and celebrates business organisations that adopt a holistic approach to building and sustaining both business excellence and developing human resources. Cultivating excellence as a united, sustained effort and innovation as a natural work style, this award recipient is a power house organisation that has continually channelled energies to create outstanding work environments that promote commitment, reinforce best business practices and consistently sharpen the skill-sets of its employees to ensure optimum utilisation of both human resource potential as well as opportunity capital.
ABLF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD 126 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
CRITERIA 1
2
3
4 5 6
7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15
By relevance to context: Presence in Industry, Infrastructure or Energy Sector By leadership: Powerful decision-making team By brand-creation/management: Building and sustaining a business brand with a global presence By wealth-creation/management: Business revenues and exploring new avenues Business elite vanguard: Lead position in the sector of business By endurance quotient: Steady growth and advancement in business Responsibility: Dovetails sustainability principles into business operations Strong employer: Company with human resource strength of over 5,000 internationally Reputation: Impeccable record and certification for HSE and HSQ Contemporary: Continually explores new opportunities in unexplored markets Grace: History and capability of handling business setbacks CSR: Publicly documented contribution toward altruistic initiatives Accolades and Recognition: National and international awards Sharpening skill sets : Consistently invests in employee training programmes to ensure optimisation of HR skills Accountability: Follows corporate governance norms and promotes employee welfare initiatives
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 127
ABLF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD THE GULF
Dr. Amer Al-Rawas Chief Executive Officer, Omantel, Oman
128 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Oman Telecommunications Company (Omantel) is the pioneer provider of integrated telecommunications services in the Sultanate of Oman. It offers the widest choice of state-of-the-art services with the broadest network coverage. The organisation aims to listen to its customers’ feedback while striving to deliver on its promises.
Omantel has offered the full spectrum of telecommunications solutions to the people and businesses of Oman since the dawn of the renaissance in 1980. Over the years, as the pioneering telecommunications supplier, it has striven to connect even the most remote communities to each other and to the rest of the world.
The systems Omantel has in place mean the company has the ability to host international content locally to ensure faster and higher quality provision of internet services. Omantel currently has links to global cable networks spanning a total of 105,300 kilometres – which equates to travelling nearly three times around the equator.
Over the last few years, Omantel has gradually expanded its international network and through such investments ensured that the country is now
“
I would like to thank my colleagues, the employees of Omantel Group for making the holistic sustained growth of Omantel possible by excellence in business. I would also like to thank pioneers in business in Oman for providing
”
an important staging post for global networks.
inspiration for young leaders like myself
As much as Omantel is focused on creating value for its shareholders by
and my colleagues at Omantel.
maintaining a sound business and financial performance, the company is also committed to being a responsible corporate citizen and enriching people’s lives in the Sultanate through its CSR initiatives. Omantel concentrates on three focus areas: Health, Safety & Environment (HSE),
DR AMER BIN AWADH AL-RAWAS Chief Executive Officer, Omantel, Oman
ICT, and Social Partnership and Charitable projects. In supporting and implementing CSR initiatives, Omantel utilises its own experience, reach and resources and works closely with its partners including government institutions, private sector organisations and non-profit organisations to ensure that the aspired positive impact on the society is realised.
As a pillar of the Omani economy, Omantel has been a leading player in Oman’s national progress and development and putting the country under global spotlight, hence making it the most deserving recipient of the ABLF Business Excellence Award across the GCC.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 129
ABLF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD INDIA
Manoj Gaur Executive Chairman & CEO, Jaypee Group, India
130 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
The Jaypee Group is a diversified infrastructure conglomerate with a
The group’s hospitality business owns and operates six properties,
turnover of US$ 2 billion and has business interests in engineering and
including four five-star hotels with state-of-the-art spas and an aggregate
construction, power, cement, real estate, hospitality, expressways, sports
capacity of 900 rooms.
and education. Transforming challenges into opportunities has been the hallmark of the Jaypee Group since its inception five decades ago.
The Jaypee Group is a pioneer in the development of India’s first golf centric real estate, Jaypee Greens, a world class fully integrated complex that
The Engineering and Construction arm of the group is an acknowledged
consists of an 18-hole Greg Norman Golf Course spread over 452 acres.
leader in the construction of multi-purpose river valley and hydropower projects. It has the unique distinction of having simultaneously executed
The group hosted India’s first ever Formula One Grand Prix in 2011
13 hydropower projects spread across six states in India and in the
and the second one in 2012. The track is ready to host other top-level
“
neighbouring country of Bhutan for generating 10,290 MW of power.
international motorsports events.
I am honoured to accept the ABLF Business Excellence Award on behalf of everyone at the Jaypee Group. For over five decades, we have remained committed to strategic business development in infrastructure and we are very happy to know our efforts
”
have been acknowledged on an international scale, and I thank the ABLF Grand Jury for this recognition.
MR MANOJ GAUR
Executive Chairman & CEO, Jaypee Group, India
The Jaypee Group, with its operational projects of 1700 MW is India’s
As part of its CSR initiatives, the Jaypee Group currently provides
largest private sector hydropower producer. The group will have a total
education across all spectrums of the learning curve through 41
hydropower generation capacity of over 5600 MW by 2020 and is the only
institutions catering to the education of over 30,000 students.
integrated solution provider for hydropower projects in the country with
The Jaypee Education System plans to expand its infrastructure to
a track record of strong project implementation in different capacities,
provide education to a universe of 200,000 students in less than a
and has participated in the development of 27 percent of the India’s
decade from now.
installed hydro-power capacity. From humble beginnings to a conglomerate with formidable presence – After having established a strong presence in the hydropower sector,
Jaypee Group’s five-decade climb to the top has been a force to reckon
the Jaypee Group has initiated its entry into thermal power generation,
with; the ABLF Business Excellence Award recognises this phenomenal
power transmission and has also forayed into wind power. Furthermore,
and inspirational achievement.
the group is the third largest cement producer in the country under the brand name ‘Jaypee Cement’. Its cement division currently operates cement plants with an aggregate capacity of 28 MnTPA.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 131
ABLF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD SOUTH-EAST ASIA
Mr A.K. Nathan Chairman & Managing Director, Eversendai Group, Malaysia
132 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Eversendai commenced its operation in 1984 as a structural steel company in Malaysia and is now a fully-fledged matured, dynamic and well-established structural steel turnkey contractor and a specialist power plant contractor with an impeccable International track record.
Founded in 1984 by Dato A.K. Nathan, Eversendai Corportation Berhad is principally engaged in the engineering, fabrication design and erection of mechanical and structural work. The group has evolved from a structural
“
steel erection specialist to one of Asia’s leading integrated structural steel turnkey contractors and power plant contractors.
It is indeed a great honour to be awarded
An ISO 9001 certified company, headquartered in Rawang, Malaysia,
the ABLF Business Excellence Award for
structural steel design, fabrication and erection of steelwork for high rise
”
Eversendai has carved a name for itself as an industry leader in the
South-East Asia. Thank you.
buildings, heavy industrial plants, stadiums, steel bridges, roof structures,
MR A.K. NATHAN
for power and industrial plants.
infrastructure projects and installation of mechanical and electrical works
Chairman & Managing Director, Eversendai Group, Malaysia Eversendai is one of the most sought after structural steel enterprise in the world, having served clients in over 11 countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and United Arab Emirates.
With a workforce of over 7,500 personnel, Eversendai has constructed some of the world’s famous landmark structures establishing itself as a major structural steel and power plant contractor in the Middle East and the Asian region, making it a truly deserving recipient of the ABLF Business Excellence Award 2012 from across South-East Asia.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 133
The ABLF Business Courage Award recipient is a formidable businessman who defines the essence of a true leader, one who leads effortlessly during times of plenty and times of crisis, ensuring the safety of both, company as well as its human resource capital. This profile is bold, decisive and a true warrior of light. His/her spirit embodies the energy of manifestation. He/she makes success a habit and passionately leads his/her people to greater heights with vision, innovation and compassion.
ABLF BUSINESS COURAGE AWARD 134 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
CRITERIA 1
2
3
4
5
6
By relevance to context: Presence in Industry, Infrastructure or Energy Sector By leadership: Fearless, risk-taker and an example for entrepreneurs By wealth-creation/management: Business revenues and exploring unchartered territory Brave innovations: Business leader pioneering unconventional initiatives and new business growth strategies By endurance quotient: Steady growth and advancement in business Contemporary: Continually explores new opportunities in unexplored markets
7
Innovation: Record of at least one pioneering initiative
8
By courage: Leadership during times of crisis
9
Power network: Forges ground-breaking business relationships
10 11 12
Courage under fire: Record of one major achievement during the economic crisis Accolades and recognition: National and international awards Accountability: Follows corporate governance norms and promotes employee welfare initiatives
13
CSR: Publicly documented contribution toward altruistic initiatives
14
Grace: History and capability of handling business setbacks
15
Strong employer: Company with human resource strength of over 2,000 internationally
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 135
ABLF BUSINESS COURAGE AWARD THE GULF
H.E. SULTAN BIN SULAYEM CHAIRMAN, DP WORLD, UAE
136 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
His Excellency Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem cemented his position as
Chairman of Nakheel, the real estate firm that built the iconic Palms,
one of the United Arab Emirate’s leading businessmen when he was
the world’s largest man-made islands. He has also established and
appointed Chairman of Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation,
successfully led Istithmar World, a major investment house focusing
and Chairman of DP World, the third largest ports firm in the world,
on private equity with a portfolio of investments in diverse sectors
operating more than 60 terminals across six continents.
across North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East including retail, financial services, industry, tourism and healthcare.
A BS graduate in Economics – Temple University Philadelphia, his educational background, expertise and visionary leadership
Another credit to his portfolio is the instrumental role he played in
spearheaded the rapid expansion of Dubai’s infrastructure, including
pioneering the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), the only
ports, free-zones, urban development, as well as Dubai’s successful
international commodity center in the region for gold, precious metals,
tourism industry, amongst other sectors.
diamonds, energy and other commodities.
He has also been credited with overseeing the rapid development of
A legendary businessman who helped transform the UAE from a
the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) into an unrivalled business park of more
country that struck oil in the late 1970s to a major trading and
than 6,700 companies from 120 countries and establishing its global
tourism hub, H.E. Sultan Bin Sulayem is the ideal recipient of the
arm, Jafza International.
ABLF Business Courage Award.
With over 25 years’ experience in the marine terminal industry, he has held several key positions in important government organisations, from former Chairman of investment giant Dubai World, to Executive
“
I am honoured to have been selected for this prestigious award. Asia is the vibrant centre
”
of economic growth in the world today and we at DP World are proud to support that growth today and into the future.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 137
ABLF BUSINESS COURAGE AWARD INDIA
ANAND MAHINDRA
CHAIRMAN & MANAGING DIRECTOR, MAHINDRA & MAHINDRA, INDIA
138 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Mr Anand Mahindra began his career at Mahindra in 1981 when he joined Mahindra Ugine Steel Co (MUSCO), a major producer of specialty steels, as Executive Assistant to the Finance Director. In 1989, he was appointed President and Deputy Managing Director of the company. While at MUSCO, he spearheaded Mahindra’s growth and diversification into new business areas like real estate and hospitality management.
“
In 1991, he was appointed Deputy Managing Director of Mahindra &
This award is for courage in business and has a very generous description about the kind of person it deserves to be bestowed upon. So I am surprised, delighted, grateful and flattered that
Mahindra, India’s leading producer of tractors and off-road vehicles.
”
He initiated a comprehensive change program to make the company
the jury has thought me worthy of the
an efficient and aggressive competitor in the new liberalised economic
high standards of this award.
environment in India. He became a Managing Director in 1997, and was promoted to Vice Chairman in 2003. He was appointed Chairman in 2012.
Mr Mahindra also serves on the board of the Harvard Business School Association of India; the Council and Executive Committee of the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF), Government of India; and the India Council for Sustainable Development.
Mr Mahindra frequently shares his views and ideas on economics and business through his writings in various business magazines. He
Mr Mahindra takes a keen interest in education, and apart from
graduated magna cum laude from Harvard College, USA in 1977 and
being a Trustee of the K.C. Mahindra Education Trust, which provides
earned an MBA from the Harvard Business School, USA in 1981. A strong
scholarships to students, he is also on the Board of Governors of
believer in the power of liberal arts to shape the leaders of the future,
the Mahindra United World College of India. In 1996, he initiated
Mr Mahindra gave an endowment of US$ 10 million to the Harvard
the Nanhi Kali program to provide free education to economically
Humanities Centre in 2010—now known as the Mahindra Humanities
underprivileged girl children in India. He is also a Life Trustee
Centre.
on the Board of the Naandi Foundation, a leader in providing academic support and daily meals to more than 1.3 million children
For guiding his company to its incredible success while never losing
in government schools as well as providing agriculture and natural
sight of philanthropy, Mr. Mahindra is an inspiring winner of the Asian
resource management knowledge to small farmers across India.
Business Courage Award.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 139
ABLF BUSINESS COURAGE AWARD SOUTH-EAST ASIA
GARIBALDI THOHIR
PRESIDENT DIRECTOR, PT ADARO ENERGY, INDONESIA
140 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Mr Garibaldi Thohir is the President Director and CEO of Adaro Energy.
in Jakarta with a large network of connected players in the industry and
Under his leadership, Adaro Energy is on track to becoming a leading
government that have helped him create new investment opportunities.
Indonesian mining and energy group. Mr Thohir has come a long way, starting out by risking everything to acquire a minority interest in a small
Mr Thohir has won numerous awards for his achievements. In 2010, he
coal joint venture in South Sumatra, to today co-owning and running the
was named ‘Best CEO in Mining’ by Majalah Tambang, and, in 2012, he
biggest single site coal mine in the Southern Hemisphere.
received the Jewels of Muslim World Award, which recognises successful business leaders in the Muslim World, and serves as reward for their
Mr Thohir earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern
hard work and contributions to economic growth.
California and an MBA from Northrop University, Los Angeles, USA. After receiving an MBA, he bought a stake in Allied Indo Coal, which
With a lifetime passion for Indonesia, he realised a well-run mine could
failed, providing invaluable lessons for the future. In 1997, Mr Thohir
also help national development. Now at only 46 years of age, he has no
invested US$ 500,000 in Wahana Ottomitra Multiartha (WOM Finance),
plans to slow his ambitious plans. He says, “You must believe in yourself
a motorcycle-financing company. He built the company and took it
and your idea, but more important than perseverance and working hard
public in 2004. A year late r, he sold 67 percent of his shares in WOM
is the ability to take calculated risks.”
Finance and reinvested in PT Adaro Energy. For his determination and resolution to succeed and his service to The acquisition of Adaro in 2005 propelled him to the ranks of Indonesia’s
Indonesia, Mr. Thohir truly deserves the honour of the ABLF Business
business elite. Mr Thohir is one of the most well-connected businessmen
Courage Award.
“
It is an absolute honour to be chosen as the ABLF Business Courage Award recipient. I wouldn’t be here without everyone who has supported Adaro to become what it is today.
This award will provide a profound support for us to contribute even more to the world
”
especially to the Asian business environment. We hope that the current global market difficulties will end soon; hence it will recover to its normal condition.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 141
The ABLF Trailblazer is a business innovator and vanguard. This individual has secured a place in the impressive world of business achievers with an unprecedented record of powerful and original business strategies. This Trailblazer embodies immense talent and his/her meteoric rise is testament to the excellent quality of service he/she has contributed towards their field of work. This individual has sparked a trend with a successful business model that has been an inspiration for others to follow.
ABLF TRAILBLAZER AWARD 142 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
CRITERIA 1
2
By Leadership: Fearless, risk-taker and an example for entrepreneurs By wealth-creation/management: Business revenues and exploring unchartered territory
3
Path-blazer: History-making presence in industry
4
Innovation: Record of at least one pioneering initiative
5
6 7 8
9 10 11
Contemporary: Continually explores new opportunities in unexplored markets Accountability: Follows corporate governance norms and promotes employee welfare initiatives Business elite vanguard: Lead position in the sector of business By endurance quotient: Steady growth and advancement in business By brand-creation/management: Building and sustaining a business brand with a global presence Inspirational: To a new generation of business minds Responsibility: Dovetails sustainability principles into business operations
12
Accolades and Recognition: National and international awards
13
CSR: Publicly documented contribution toward altruistic initiatives
14
15
Mentorship: Perceived as a mentor by younger generation and demonstrates appropriate qualities Philanthropy: Publicly documented contribution toward altruistic initiatives
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 143
ABLF TRAILBLAZER AWARD
VANDANA LUTHRA
FOUNDER & MENTOR, VLCC, INDIA
144 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Widely recognised as the leader in the Indian beauty, health and fitness
a manifestation of that dream. She has worked painstakingly to help the
industry, Ms Vandana Luthra is today recognised as an authority in the
weight-management, beauty and wellness industry be recognised as
wellness industry.
an organised sector, setting quality standards, benchmarking services and customer satisfaction while employing top of the line technology
As Founder and Mentor, she is the guiding force behind VLCC – the iconic
and applications. Her endeavours have been towards placing the Indian
health, beauty and wellness brand to have emerged out of the Indian
beauty and fitness industry at par with those of the most advanced
subcontinent, whose presence currently spans over 300 locations across
countries internationally. Consequently, VLCC today plays a key role as
121 cities in 16 countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, UAE, Oman,
a member of the technical as well as accreditation committees of India’s
Bahrain, Kuwait and the UAE.
National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Health Care Providers to
“
set and implement quality standards for the wellness industry.
I would like to thank ABLF for this
VLCC has evolved as a reference point for the wellness industry in
most prestigious award and I humbly
company’s intrinsic strengths of a strong brand presence, a captive
accept this award on behalf of my VLCC
India, setting new standards for health and fitness. Leveraging on the
customer base and extensive research capability, the group, under Ms Luthra’s direction, is making ambitious plans to diversify into new areas
family, which has majority women
of business with significant international presence.
who have worked very hard to turn my
Ms Vandana Luthra believes that business and society are largely
vision into reality. As an entrepreneur,
interdependent. The well-being of one depends of the well-being of the other. This belief has encouraged her to actively pursue her passion for
awards motivate you and make you feel
providing opportunities for others. As part of its CSR initiatives, VLCC
positive, especially in an industry like the
underprivileged with jobs at the centres.
”
wellness.
provides free training to physically challenged people and supports the
Empowerment of women is a cause that is very close to Ms Luthra’s heart. Nearly 70 percent of VLCC’s employees are women. Working hours,
VLCC is the industry leader in the wellness domain and offers advanced
facilities, and human resource policies are geared towards providing a
and effective personalised solutions that showcase a strong global vision.
secure and progressive work environment to all VLCC employees.
Having served over 10 million customers since its inception, VLCC, today, has achieved an iconic status and is the Middle East and South Asia’s
Her powerful and innovative business strategies, proven success
most preferred wellness brand.
and unfaltering vision makes her the ideal recipient of the ABLF Trailblazer Award.
Ms Vandana Luthra’s entrepreneurial journey was sparked by her vision to make health and fitness accessible to all segments of society. VLCC is
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 145
EVENT ATTENDEES
H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, UAE
H.E. Maqbool Ali Sultan Former Minister of Commerce & Industry Oman
H.E. Dr Thaksin Shinawatra Former Prime Minister Thailand
H.E. Khalil Al Khonji Chairman Federation of the GCC Chambers & Oman Chamber of Commerce
H.E. M.K. Lokesh Ambassador of India to the UAE
H.E. Salman Al Farisi Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the UAE
H.E. Low Pit Chen Charge D’Affaires, Singapore Embassy, UAE
H.E. Khalfan Saeed Jumaa Al Kaabi Vice Chairman Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE
H.E. Rashid Al Leem Director General Hamriyah Free Zone, UAE
Mr Venu Rajamony Press Secretary to the President of India
Dr P. Mohamed Ali Vice Chairman & Managing Director Galfar, Oman
Ms Malini N. Menon Managing Director Indian Expressions, UAE
Mr Mohan Jashanmal Chairman Jashanmal National Company, UAE
Mr Baba Kalyani Chairman Kalyani Group, India
Ms Fatima Al Jaber COO & Executive Director Al Jaber Group, UAE
Mr Charles Moore Jr Regional President Lockheed Martin Middle East
Ms Mallika Srinivasan Chairperson & CEO TAFE, India
Mr Rajen Kilachand President and CEO Dodsal Group, UAE
Dr Amer bin Awadh Al Rawas CEO Omantel, Oman
Mr Yusuff Ali M.A. Managing Director EMKE Group, UAE
H.E. Mohamed Helal Al Muhairi Director General Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE
Khaled Salmeen Executive Vice-President Industrial Zones, Abu Dhabi Ports Company, UAE
Mr Rajiv Luthra Managing Partner Luthra & Luthra, Law Offices, India
Ms Vandana Luthra Founder and Mentor VLCC, India
Mr Robert Booth CEO, Emaar Properties
Mr George Jatania Chairman Lornamead, UK
Mr Hasu Masrani Chairman Mitras International Trading, UAE
Mr Pradeep Singh Vice Chairman and CEO IDFC Projects, India
Mr Aqeel Jawad Sultan Managing Director Jawad Sultan Group, Oman
Ms Natasha Gangaramani Director Al Fara’a Group, UAE
Ms Nashwa Al Qubaisi Advocate & Board Member Abu Dhabi Business Woman Council, UAE
Mr Mohamed Al Refaei Director, Foreign & Trade Relations Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE
EVENT ATTENDEES
Mr Kulwant Singh Secretary General Indian Business & Professional Council UAE
Mr Animesh Kumar Group HR & Corporate Communication Head & Co-CEO IDFC Foundation, India
Mr Siddharth Balachandran Managing Director Bumga Group of Companies, UAE
Mr Ajay Sethi Chairman Channel 2 Group, UAE
Mr Amit Arora CMO,Emaar Group, UAE
Mr Satish Seemar
Mr Stephen Jurgenson Partner Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, UAE
Tony Jashanmal Group Executive Director Jashanmal Group, UAE
Mr Hitesh Bodani Chairman Bond Investment Group Holdings, UAE
Mr Manoj Mathew Business Head ZEE TV (MENAP)
Mr Nabeel Hood Head of Sales and Marketing CNBC Arabiya
Mr Chayo Puronomo Head of Indonesia Investment Promotion Centre (IIPC), UAE
Mr Manoj Prasad CEO and Managing Director Signature Capital PTE, UAE
Ms Bindu Menon General Manger Asianet Middle East
Mr V. Nandakumar Head- Corporate Communications EMKE Group, UAE
Mr Hamid Butt COO, Global Whole Sale Banking Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, UAE
Mr Hisham Aqeel Event Management Director Sheikh Nahayan’s Office, UAE
Traditional lamp lighting ceremony
Mr Malik Noureed Awan CEO MMA Group, UAE
Dr Janakiraman Moorthy Director Institute of Management Technology, UAE
Mr N.S. Rao Regional Director - Middle East & India Eversendai, Malaysia
ABLF AWARDS PHOTO GALLERY
“It’s an outstanding initiative. The ABLF Series represents an effort to bring different parts of Asia together - the government leaders, business leaders, intellectuals - people who have contributed to changing their worlds together. It is extremely important that we have initiatives of this kind, when globally, the economic and political weight is shifting towards Asia from the West.”
- VENU RAJAMONY Press Secretary to the President of India
“My heartiest congratulations to the ABLF Awards on bringing together the spirit of Asia. As an Asian Business Awards Middle East 2007 alumnus, it gives me great pride to see that the mandate of the event is Asia-focused. Collaboration is important, now more than ever, for Asia to achieve its full potential as the global economic torchbearer of the future.� - YUSUFF ALI M.A. Managing Director, EMKE Group, UAE
“The ABLF Awards is definitely one of the best awards recognised in the region. It awards the best Asian entrepreneurs, leaderships and people that have added a lot of good to the continent. It was a great pleasure to be present today and to be a part of the ceremony and giving awards to the most recognised leaders of the continent.� - KHALED SALMEEN Executive Vice President, KIZAD, UAE
“Such events bring together people who think for the better of the world, to talk about how things can be sustained, and everyone can share the benefits and be inclusive. I feel very privileged to be a part of such an event.� - DR RASHID AL LEEM Director General Hamriyah Free Zone Authority, UAE
ABLF SIGNATURE WALL
COCKTAIL RECEPTION
“I congratulate ABLF and Indian Expressions for giving us this opportunity to honour people who have done extremely well in their respective industries and set new benchmarks of excellence. It is motivating for people who are watching and who are receiving the honour.” - NATASHA GANGARAMANI Director, Al Fara’a Properties, UAE
Mr Robert Booth, CEO of Emaar Properties, accepts the ABLF Global Asian Award on behalf of Mr Mohammed Alabbar.
ABLF GLOBAL ASIAN AWARD
H.E. Thaksin Shinawatra accepts the ABLF Statesman Award (South-East Asia) from H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan.
ABLF STATESMAN AWARD
Mr Khalfan Saeed Jumaa Al Kaabi and H.E. Maqbool Ali
Sultan
present
the
ABLF Lifetime Achievement Award (Gulf) to H.E. Khalil Al Khonji on behalf of H.E. Dr Omar Zawawi, Founder & Chairman, Omzest, Oman
ABLF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD (GULF)
Mr Baba Kalyani accepts the ABLF Lifetime Achievement Award (India)
ABLF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD (INDIA)
H.E. Low Pit Chen, Charge D’Affaires, Singapore Embassy, UAE, accepts the ABLF Lifetime Achievement Award (South-East Asia) on behalf of Mr Kishore Mahbubani
ABLF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Witness Asia Rising | 167 (SOUTH-EAST ASIA)
Ms Fatima Al Jaber presents the ABLF Woman of Power Award (Gulf) to Ms Alyza Beg on behalf of Ms Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg
ABLF WOMAN OF POWER AWARD (GULF)
Ms Mallika Srnivasan accepts the ABLF Woman of Power Award (India)
ABLF WOMAN OF POWER AWARD (INDIA)
Ms Vandana Luthra accepts the ABLF Trailblazer Award
ABLF TRAILBLAZER AWARD
ABLF Business Excellence Award (Gulf) presented to OMANTEL, represented by the CEO, Dr Amer Awadh Al Rawas
ABLF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD (GULF)
Mr Rajiv Luthra accepts the ABLF Business Excellence Award (India) on behalf of Jaypee Group
ABLF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD (INDIA)
Mr N.S. Rao accepts the ABLF Business Excellence Award (South-East Asia) on behalf of Eversendai Corporation, Malaysia
ABLF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD (SOUTH-EAST ASIA)
ABLF Business Courage Award (South-East Asia) received by H.E. Salman Al Farisi, Ambassador of Indonesia to UAE, on behalf of Mr Garibaldi Thohir
ABLF BUSINESS COURAGE AWARD (SOUTH-EAST ASIA)
ABLF THE ABLF AWARDS 2011 WINNERS ABLF GLOBAL ASIAN AWARD
Late Dhirubhai Ambani Founder Chairman Reliance Group, India
ABLF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD THE GULF
INDIA
SOUTH-EAST ASIA
Mohammed Al Zubair Founding Chairman Zubair Corporation, Oman
Ratan Tata Chairman Emeritus Tata Group, India
Gopinath Pillai Executive Chairman Savant Infocomm, Singapore
170 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF WOMAN OF POWER AWARD THE GULF
INDIA
SOUTH-EAST ASIA
Chanda Kocchar Managing Director & CEO ICICI Bank, India
Hind Bahwan Director Suhail Bahwan Group, Oman
ABLF
Olivia Lum Group President & CEO Hyflux Group, Singapore
ABLF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD THE GULF
INDIA
SOUTH-EAST ASIA
Salma Hareb CEO JAFZA & Economic Zones Worldwide, UAE
Shashi Ruia Chairman Essar Group, India
Stephen Lee Ching Yen Chairman Singapore Airlines, Singapore
ABLF BUSINESS COURAGE AWARD THE GULF
INDIA (TIE)
INDIA (TIE)
SOUTH-EAST ASIA
Ghaith Al Ghaith CEO Flydubai, UAE
A.M. Naik Chairman & Managing Director Larsen & Toubro, India
Gautam Thapar Chairman & CEO Avantha Group, India
George Santosa Tahiija President Director Austindo Group, Indonesia
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 171
ABLF
THELEADERS ABLF COLUMN SPEAK DRIVEN BY STEEL, POWERED BY INDIA Many amongst us have concerns about the global economic scenario, still it can be confidently said that the Indian growth story is very much intact and is here to stay. Against the backdrop of the global economic situation, India is best poised to emerge as one of the top economies in times to come.
A recent Goldman Sachs report reiterates that by 2050 India will emerge as the second largest economy in the world (after China). The surge in demand is set to grow with the increase in population growth. The shift in the concentration of economic strength for countries like India and China is reflected in the strong and sustainable economic growth in domestic markets and demand emanating from bottom-of-the-pyramid growth.
India’s commitment to growth manifests itself in the recent spate of reforms announced across sectors. To stimulate the growth story, the government
NAVEEN JINDAL
has given a big boost by allocating US$ 1 trillion for infrastructure
CHAIRMAN JINDAL STEEL & POWER LIMITED, INDIA
Group on Steel for the 12th Plan has projected that the crude steel capacity
development in the 12th five year plan. Based on the assessment of the current ongoing projects, both in greenfield and brownfield, the Working
in the country is likely to be 140mt by 2016-17 and has the potential to reach 149mt.
With an annual turnover of US$ 3.5 billion, Jindal Steel & Power Limited is one of India’s major steel producers with a significant presence in sectors like
In fact, at the recent G20 Summit, our honourable Prime Minister, Dr
mining, power generation and infrastructure. A man of myriad talents, Mr
Manmohan Singh said, “The fundamentals of the Indian economy remain
Jindal is a crusader for the Indian national flag, an advocate of women and
strong and we are confident of bringing back the rhythm of high growth of
child rights, a philanthropist, a parliamentarian, a politician, a successful
8-9 percent per annum. We are focusing heavily on infrastructure investment
industrialist, and a sportsman par excellence.
and in this context we have set ambitious targets to keep infrastructure investment on track and also put in place a problem resolution mechanism to overcome implementation bottlenecks.”
172
ABLF Despite the current global economic slowdown, we, as Indian steel producers, are optimistic that the GDP will grow at the rate of 8-9 percent and the steel sector should grow at 10-11 percent. The aggressive domestic demand will drive India to become the net importer by 2020. This will indeed provide a big opportunity for the Indian steel sector.
There is considerable room for consumption growth, which will attract investments for more capacity creation across the next decade. This is reflected in the growing demand for automotive products, building construction and large infrastructure projects, which were deferred owing to the slowdown. Sectors like construction, automobile, railway, transportation of oil and gas, shipbuilding, capital goods (heavy machinery
“
The shift in the concentration of economic strength for countries like India and China is reflected in the strong and sustainable economic growth in domestic
”
markets and demand emanating from bottom‑of‑the‑pyramid growth.
and equipment), consumer durables and even agriculture equipment are largely dependent on the production of steel.
But how do steel companies capitalise on the opportunity of growth in
There should also be inclusive growth to take along the communities around
demand and continue to create value for their shareholders, especially with
the plants, endeavouring to improve the quality of life of the people in the
the non-availability of natural gas, as well as with limited reserves of coking
areas steel companies operate in. Giving back to the society and starting
coal and iron ore? To emerge as a major participant in the growth process,
several initiatives to ensure a strong corporate initiative focusing on the
steel majors need to continue with their strategic objectives of expansion
welfare of the local communities will go a long way in building the nation
and development of existing capacities, enriching their product portfolio,
of our dreams.
modernising their facilities, securing raw material availability globally and implementing high standards of corporate governance.
Furthermore, events like the ABLF give us an opportunity to meet leaders from all across Asia to build and strengthen relationships globally and work together to do even bigger things.
Witness Asia Rising | ABLF Awards | 173
ABLF
ABLF
CHAPTER 3
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY &
GLOBAL OUTREACH
Asian Business Leadersh http://www.ablfseries.com/
ABLF SERIES WEB PORTALS The Asian Business Leadership Forum Series (www.ablfseries.com) hosted two independent web portals - for the Awards (www.ablfawards.com) and the Forum (www.ablforum.com) - that described related history, information, updates, as well as the nomination mechanics for the Award event. The websites are designed and calibrated to become a multi-faceted resource centre for Asia in Industry, Infrastructure and Energy.
ABLFSERIES.COM www.ablfseries.com
ABLFORUM.COM
www.ablforum.com
ABLFAWARDS.COM www.ablfawards.com
hip Forum™ Series 2012 ABLF Series Facebook & Twitter - Social Media
FACEBOOK TWEETS ON THE ABLF SERIES
Pranay Gupte @PranayGupte Kudos for Malini N. Menon, Founder of the Asian Business Leaders Forum, as she hosts the annual leader’s awards in Abu Dhabi. RAK Free Trade Zone @RAKFTZ #UAE hosts the inaugural @ABLFSeries, seeking to strengthen the relationship of the most powerful voices. http://bit.ly/ Vkb4XT The ABLF Series made its presence felt in a big
Danish Farhan @danishfarhan
way this year in the online space through a highly
Insightful morning at the @ABLFSeries in @
collaborative social media campaign spreading word
DIFC debating Asia’s next big challenge—
about the ABLF Series events and its presenters via
infrastructure. #ABLF12
Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Naveen Jindal @MPNaveenJindal Kudos to Indian Expressions for taking the initiative to recognise achievements in Industry, Infrastructure and Energy. #ABLFAward
TWITTER YOUTUBE
Naveen Jindal @MPNaveenJindal India being represented in full force by iconic business and policy leaders at the #ABLF Awards tonight
SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN
In the United Arab Emirates, the ABLF Awards was advertised across a huge front-lit scaffolding (15 metres x 60 metres) on the Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai. The backbone of Dubai’s road network system, the Sheikh Zayed Road, is known as the Wall Street of the Middle East serving the highest traffic volumes in the country and is home to Dubai’s most valuable real estate and skyscrapers.
178
OUTDOOR BRANDING ACROSS ASIA
In India, the ABLF Series were promoted through huge bus shelter advertisements throughout Central and South Delhi catering to the diplomatic areas and embassies, hence attracting huge footfall from Ministries and policy-leaders, as well as in strategic areas housing core business conglomerates and operations.
179
ABLF SERIES COLLATERAL
The ABLF Series was communicated through exclusively designed collaterals including state-of-theart invitations, info-dockets and brochures.
TELEVISION CAMPAIGN The ABLF Knowledge Congress and the ABLF Awards were telecast across a series of curtain raiser vignettes and 22-minute episodes, through the ABLF Series television partners CNBC TV-18 (subscribed viewership of over 3.2 million) and Zee TV MENAP (subscribed viewer profile of over 3.6 million in the Middle East region), CNBC Arabiya (viewership of 50 million through its free-to-air presence across the GCC countries). The telecasts were promoted through a strategically planned campaign of pronounced TVC Promos, Tickers, Aston Bands and Binders over a period of three months, prior to the airing of the final telecasts.
Forum Telecast TVC Promos
Awards Telecast TVC Promos
Tickers
Binders
Aston Bands
ABLForum Zee Connect Vignettes
ABLF Awards Zee Connect Vignettes
ABLF Knowledge Congress Telecast
ABLF Awards Telecast
ABLF SERIES NEWSLETTERS
The ABLF Times is the official newsletter of the ABLF Series and is sent to an exclusive blue-chip database of 200,000 opinion leaders, industry stalwarts, media, consultancies and academics across Asia, with a direct interest in the ABLF sectors of Industry, Infrastructure and Energy.
ABLF COLUMNS HINDUSTAN TIMES
Unlike the traditional approach to advertising, the ABLF Series this year delved into an intellectual method of event promotion, through a syndicated 240 sq. ABLF Column in India’s most respected and leading English newspaper, Hindustan Times, serving more than 4.7 million Indians. The column featured articles from a high-profile consortium of opinion leaders and business frontrunners from across Asia, including H.E. Kamal Nath, Minister of Urban Development & Parliamentary Affairs, India; H.E. Vayalar Ravi, Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs, India; H.E. Khalil Al Khonji, Chairman, Federation of GCC Chambers & Oman Chamber of Commerce; Mr Rajiv Luthra, Managing Partner – Luthra & Luthra, India and Dr Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor, Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE.
CHAPTER 4
VANGUARD THE ABLF SERIES OF
ABLF PRESENTER
“
The Asian Business Leadership Forum Series offers a common platform for Asian business leaders to forge new partnerships and such an initiative deserves support from the global business
�
community. We are proud to lead this great movement towards creating and sustaining excellence through the ABLF Series.
- PRANAV ADANI Managing Director Agro and Oil & Gas, Adani Group, India
188 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
The Adani Group is a global integrated infrastructure player with presence
Adani aims to meet India’s growing energy needs while minimising the
in resources, logistics, and energy sectors, committed to nation building
impact on the environment and is therefore adopting initiatives to improve
and inclusive growth. The group was founded and is led by first generation
efficiency and reduce waste, such as the biodiversity protection program
entrepreneur Mr Gautam Adani, whose career trajectory is a study in rapid
in the ecologically sensitive areas of Mundra, where mangrove plantations
growth and inspirational approach. From humble beginnings to building a
are conserved through technology imported from Israel. Moreover, Adani
professionally managed, world-class integrated infrastructure giant spread
Power is the first power company in India to use ‘supercritical’ technology
across continents, his journey inspires awe and respect.
to reduce CO2 emissions, an initiative that has won the Clean Development Certification from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
The US$ 8 billion Adani Group marks its presence across six ports
Change (UNFCCC); the only thermal power plant in the world to do so.
in India and two in Australia, making it the only Indian private port company to successfully venture overseas. The group is expanding
The Adani Group is governed by the three core values of courage, trust,
the capacity of Abbot Point to 120 MMT and has commissioned a
and commitment. Its business strategies have bequeathed new meaning
Greenfield coal terminal at Dudgeon Point, Australia. It manages
to the collaboration paradigm - to dovetail business plans and strategies
the largest private port in India, the Mundra Port in Gujarat, which
with those of the nation by participating in the great Indian growth story
boasts of the world’s largest automated coal import terminal. Besides
and delivering optimal value to its shareholders. The group’s continuous
Mundra, the group manages terminals at Dahej and Hazira.
endeavour to raise the bar in corporate and social initiatives has resulted in an optimum business model that benefits both stakeholders and society.
The Adani Group aims to become one of India’s largest electricity generation utilities by 2020 with a capacity of 20,000MW. It is the
Adani believes that with sustainability, collaboration, and responsibility
largest importer of coal in India and is well on its way towards
at the core, new opportunities can be created for greater growth and
developing coal mines with the capacity to extract 200 MMTPA of
success. Adani Group’s directives towards collaborative dialogue and
coal by 2020. It is also actively investing in renewable energy and has
its shared mission to mentor and support new business talent have
commissioned the largest solar power project in India.
led to its continual support and association with the ABLF Series.
ABLF PRESENTER Vanguard of the ABLF Series | 189
ABLF PRESENTER
“
The ABLF event has proven to be an extraordinary effort in bringing the
”
Gulf, India and South-East Asia together at one spectacular business event. I commend the effort.
- RAJEEV TALWAR Group Executive Director DLF Limited, India
190 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
DLF Limited is India’s leading real estate company with a 60-year
IT & ITES majors and leading Indian and International corporate
track record of sustained growth, customer satisfaction, and
giants, including GE, IBM, Microsoft, Canon, Citibank, Hewitt, Bank of
innovation; its primary business is development of residential,
America, Infosys, and Symantec, among others.
commercial and retail properties. The company has 345 msf of planned projects with 48 msf of projects under construction. The
DLF also pioneered the retail revolution in the country and brought
company has a unique business model with earnings arising from
about a paradigm shift in the industry by redefining shopping,
development and rentals. Its exposure across businesses, segments
recreation and leisure experiences with the launch of City Centre
and geographies mitigates any down-cycles in the market. From
in Gurgaon in 2000. The company also owns and operates the
developing 22 major colonies in Delhi, DLF is now present across
luxurious Aman Resorts around the world.
15 states and 24 cities in India. DLF’s mission is to build a world-class real estate development The development business of DLF includes homes and commercial
company with the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and
complexes, which caters to three segments of the residential
customer service and to thereby contribute to and benefit from the
market – super luxury, luxury and premium, offering a wide range
growth of the Indian economy. With over six decades of excellence,
of products including condominiums, duplexes, row houses and
DLF is a name synonymous with global standards, new generation
apartments of varying sizes. DLF is credited with introducing and
workspaces and lifestyles.
pioneering the revolutionary concept of developing commercial complexes in the vicinity of residential areas. It has the distinction of developing commercial projects and IT parks that are at par with the best in the world and has become a preferred name with many
ABLF PRESENTER Vanguard of the ABLF Series | 191
ABLF LEAD KNOWLEDGE PARTNER
“
We support ABLF because we believe that it is an interesting platform to promote the idea of development across Asia, to bring together a network of companies, professionals and policy-makers, to raise their
�
awareness about the importance of the infrastructure space, and attracting more private participation into this space.
- DR RAJIV LALL Executive Director
IDFC Limited, India
192 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Established in 1997, IDFC Limited is a specialised financial
IDFC Alternatives is the Alternative Asset Management vertical at
institution focused on infrastructure in India. IDFC provides
IDFC. IDFC Alternatives has an established multi-asset class platform
financing solutions to the Infrastructure sector in India from
comprising three asset classes - Private Equity, Infrastructure and
concept to commissioning. Today IDFC is the single largest debt
Real Estate. The three distinct asset classes offer a range of risk
and equity financier of privately sponsored infrastructure in the
return profiles to global investors. IDFC Alternatives has four funds
country with a balance sheet of US$ 12 billion.
under management aggregating US$ 2.2 billion, which makes it one of India’s largest Alternative Asset Managers.
IDFC’s business model is built on a strong foundation of domain knowledge and intellectual capital in the field of financing
IDFC works closely with the government of India, advising and
infrastructure development. The company utilises its deep
assisting them in formulating policy and regulatory frameworks
understanding of the sector to mitigate risks and explore
that support private investment and public-private partnerships
opportunities across various stages of their project life-cycle. IDFC
in infrastructure development. IDFC has consolidated its position
devises appropriate products and financing structures that are
as the country’s leading specialist infrastructure finance company
critical to successful infrastructure financing. In doing so, IDFC
and was the first company to be classified as an Infrastructure
constantly strives to identify and deliver value propositions for all
Finance Company (IFC).
its stakeholders, while mobilising domestic as well as global capital and channeling it for the development of infrastructure in India.
Over the years, IDFC has steadily broadened its business activities to cover a wide spectrum of services in the financial intermediation space. With the basic focus on infrastructure, it has expanded from the primary business activity of pure project financing and government advisory to activities like asset management, loan syndication, corporate advisory, investment banking etc.
ABLF LEAD KNOWLEDGE PARTNER Vanguard of the ABLF Series | 193
ABLF KNOWLEDGE PARTNERS
Luthra & Luthra Law Offices is a full service law firm with a legal practice in the areas of corporate and commercial, infrastructure and project finance, policy and regulatory, intellectual property and trade laws and litigation and alternate dispute resolution mechanisms. With a total of 24 partners for Corporate, 16 partners for Litigation and over 250 lawyers qualified in multiple jurisdictions, each of whom is supported by a dedicated team of paralegal and other technical, administrative and financial staffs, Luthra & Luthra is one of the largest law firms in India. The firm has its offices in New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore in India. It takes pride in its reputation of providing punctual and cost-effective advice whilst upholding the highest ethical standards.
194 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
“
The ABLF Series has done a wonderful job of focusing attention on the entrepreneurship and business spirit of the Middle East, South-East Asia and India, a region which will be the
”
world’s engine of economic growth and innovation in the years to come.
- RAJIV LUTHRA Managing Partner Luthra & Luthra Law Offices, India
“
As a leading international law firm with strong interests across the Middle East and South Asia, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman was honoured to be named an ABLF Knowledge Partner. I personally was thrilled to be able to present our insights on
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman is a full-service law firm with a keen industry focus on the energy and natural resources, financial services, real estate and construction, and technology sectors. Based in the world’s major financial, technology and energy centres, Pillsbury counsels clients on global regulatory, litigation and corporate matters. The firm works in multidisciplinary teams that allow it to anticipate trends and bring a 360-degree perspective to complex business and legal issues, helping clients to take greater advantage of new opportunities and better mitigate risk. Pillsbury is distinguished by its highly collaborative, cost-effective
various timely Energy Industry topics, and to share the stage with many distinguished colleagues from industry and government. The ABLF Knowledge
learn and to network.
approach to client work. A decade ago, it pioneered the client‑team model and has since expanded this service model to include issuespecific task forces and multidisciplinary teams that focus on the emerging trends that are likely to impact their clients’ businesses.
”
Congress was a terrific opportunity to
- STEPHEN HUTTLER Senior Partner Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, USA
Pillsbury strives to make a significant and sustained investment to stay ahead of change so that the clients are well positioned for future success.
ABLF LEAD KNOWLEDGE PARTNER Vanguard of the ABLF Series | 195
ABLF SUPPORTERS
The Dodsal Group is a Dubai-based diversified multinational conglomerate which operates in the areas of Trading and Distribution;
Engineering,
Procurement
and
Construction;
Exploration and Production; Casual Dining Restaurants; and Manufacturing and has new interests in horticulture and floriculture development.
Dodsal’s leadership’s vision for the company to become a key player in the nuclear, defence and space industry has come to fruition with the recent US$ 150 million joint venture with Atomenergomash, a Russian heavy equipment engineering
“
The ABLF Awards concept really is so perfect because the timing is perfect, it is in the right location and its target is perfect because it is the only event of its kind that I know of on a global level, economies of Asia.
company, to manufacture and supply power equipment for Nuclear Power Projects, Thermal Power Projects and the Oil and Gas industry in India.
The Dodsal Group’s focus is now shifting to new avenues, and over the next decade, its future holds more promising forays into newer, more exciting industries, including space exploration and defence, marking a new and exciting time for it in the 21st century.
196 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
”
that showcases the rise of the
- RAJEN KILACHAND Chairman & President Dodsal Group, UAE
Galfar Engineering & Contracting SAOG is one of the largest multidisciplined engineering, contracting and construction companies in the Sultanate of Oman. Established in 1972, Galfar has today grown into one of the largest construction companies in the Middle East with a turnover of over US$ 1 billion and an impeccable reputation
for
excellence
in
construction
quality,
safety,
“
ABLF Awards is a breakthrough initiative because it brings to light the powerful sectors that have driven Asia’s growth. Asia stands on the cusp of great
performance, employee satisfaction and social responsibility.
change, and the leaders who have
The company provides project management and construction
contributed to its success deserve
services for various projects, including commercial and residential complexes, educational institutions, industrial structures, ports and harbours, hospitals, water retaining structures, monuments, and cross-country water line networks. It also offers cross-country oil and gas pipelines and flow lines of various materials. Galfar is involved in the erection and commissioning of static and
international recognition.
”
- DR P. MOHAMED ALI Vice Chairman and Managing Director Galfar, Oman
rotary equipments; construction of oil storage tanks, corrosion protection, chemical injection and water injection projects; control and automation systems, electrical power generation and distribution, and the construction of roads and bridges, making it a leading infrastructure-relevant business entity of the region.
ABLF SUPPORTERS Vanguard of the ABLF Series | 197
ABLF SUPPORTERS
Jindal Steel and Power Limited (JSP) is one of India’s major steel producers with a significant presence in sectors like Mining, Power Generation and Infrastructure.
With an annual turnover of over US$ 3.5 billion, JSPL is a part of the US$ 17 billion diversified O. P. Jindal Group and is consistently tapping new opportunities by
increasing
production
capacity,
diversifying
investments, and leveraging its core capabilities to venture into new businesses. The company has committed investments exceeding US$ 30 billion in the future and has several business initiatives running simultaneously across continents.
From the widest flat products to a whole range of long products, JSPL today sports a product portfolio that caters to varied needs in the steel market. The company also has the distinction of producing the world’s longest 121 metre rails and large size parallel flange beams for the first time in India.
198 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
“
I think ABLF is doing a wonderful job in this region for promoting entrepreneurship and development, by getting all the business leaders of the region together on a common platform to interact with each
”
other so we can all work together for mutual benefit.
- NAVEEN JINDAL
Chairman Jindal Steel & Power Limited, India
SHOWCASING THE ABLF VANGUARD
Vanguard of the ABLF Series | 199
ABLF ASSOCIATES
The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ADCCI) is the private sector representative and the leading voice for the business community based in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. The ADCCI assists in the growth of businesses via communication networks with local and foreign companies and enjoys a favourable professional reputation in business consultancy.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is an onshore financial hub which aims to provide a platform for business and financial institutions to reach into and out of the emerging markets of the region. It was established to create an environment for growth, progress and economic
The ADCCI plays an important role as a supporter of and contributor to the process of economic development in Abu Dhabi, and its strong ties with international business organisations, chambers of commerce and companies makes it stand out unrivalled in the field of international relations.
development in the United Arab Emirates and the wider region by providing the needed legal and business as well as physical infrastructure benchmarked against international standards. The DIFC was the venue for the inaugural ABLF Knowledge Congress on October 3, 2012
“
The development of the Industry, Infrastructure and Energy sectors is paramount to any nation’s progress and the Asian Business Leadership Forum has successfully engaged
”
in a remarkable effort of showcasing the talent and resource across Asia within these key areas of growth.
200 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
- H.E. MOHAMED HELALHelal AL MUHAIRI HE Mohamed Al Muhairi Director General Director General, Abu Dhabi Chamber Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE
The Federation of GCC Chambers of Commerce (FGCCC) is a non-profit Gulf organisation and has six GCC national chamber members, which in turn, have 35 local chamber members with more than 760,000 businessmen. The need for strengthening fraternity bonds and consolidating steps to enhance economic cooperation among the GCC countries led to the establishment of the FGCCC in 1979 in Saudi Arabia. The mission of the Federation includes - the realisation of GCC economic integration within a comprehensive, effective and advanced format based on a solid conviction; the representation of the GCC private sector in Arab, regional and international forums; and presentation of the views of the GCC business community on the various economic issues
utility organisation, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) is the apex body of Oman’s private sector, which represents the country at the local and international levels and acts as a catalyst in activating the Sultanate’s national economy. The OCCI promotes economic and trade relations and supports joint businessmen’s councils with Arab and foreign countries in order to facilitate more international networking. The OCCI also plays a significant role in implementing the country’s developmental plans aimed at diversifying its national income sources.
and policies.
“
Established in 1973 by virtue of a Royal Decree as a public
I hope that this initiative gets more and more countries in Asia together because it is very important to recognise the achievers in this region and put them in the global spotlight. All
”
eyes are now on Asia, and the most important thing for the Asian leaders is to manage and sustain this development.
HE Khalil Abdullah Al Khonji Chairman, Federation of the GCC Chamber of Commerce & Chariman the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry Federation of the GCC Chamber of Commerce &
- H.E. KHALIL ABDULLAH AL KHONJI the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Vanguard of the ABLF Series | 201
ABLF ASSOCIATES
The Qatar Chamber was established in 1963 and was designed to support the burgeoning business climate in the country. In 1990, it was granted its own autonomy with the legal
Badan Koordinasi Penanaman Modal (BKPM) is an investment
authority to represent all private sector activities in the State
service agency of the Indonesian Government created with
of Qatar. It is focused on continually improving the wide range
a purpose to effectively implement the enactment of law
of services it offers to the business community in Qatar and
on foreign as well as domestic investment. The company
pursuing favourable national and regional economic policies
is mandated as an advocacy agency for investors and is
which help increase investment opportunities in Qatar. By
tasked with formulating government policy on investment,
providing key support services, networking opportunities and
both domestic and from abroad. BKPM aims to stimulate
leadership, the Chamber has helped oversee one of the most
realisation of a more conducive climate for investment and
dynamic and fastest-growing economies in the world.
enhance the role of investment institutions and system information in Indonesia.
“
In a country like Indonesia, with a market size of about 48% of total ASEAN economies, and with 42% of total ASEAN population, endowed with natural resources and a growing middle-
�
class, the ABLF Series provides the perfect opportunity for us to showcase Indonesia and to share our potential with the investors.
202 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Dr. ChatibBASRI Basri - DR M. CHATIB Chairman, BKPM Chairman BKPM, Indonesia
WHITE BACKGROUND
BLACK BACKGROUN
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is a nongovernment, not-for-profit, industry led and industry managed organisation, playing a proactive role in India’s development process. It is India’s premier business association, with a direct membership of over 7,100 organisations from the private as well as public sectors, including SMEs and MNCs, and an indirect membership of over 90,000 companies from around 250 national
Since its inception over two decades ago, Rivoli has been synonymous with luxury lifestyle retail in the Middle East. Today, the Rivoli Group has established a footprint in the UAE, Oman, Qatar and Bahrain with a diverse portfolio featuring over 110 international prestigious brands.
and regional sectorial associations. CII works to create and sustain an environment conducive to the growth of
Rivoli straddles a wide spectrum of all things premium,
industry in India, partnering industry and government
from watches, eyewear and leather accessories to writing
alike through advisory and consultative processes.
instruments and luxury communication instruments. From its headquarters in Dubai, the group has swiftly established a reputation as one of the largest importers, distributors and retailers of luxury products with over 300 stores in the region.
Vanguard of the ABLF Series | 203
ABLF ASSOCIATES
Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System (DIMTS) Limited
The Institute of Management Technology (IMT) is a premium
is an Urban Transport and Infrastructure Development
business school with branches in India and the UAE. Rated
Company committed to the delivery of quality services. It is a
as one of the top 10 business schools in India, the key
joint venture company with equal equity of the Government
advantage offered by its Business Programs is the strong
of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) and the IDFC
industry interface achieved through continuous interaction
Foundation (a not-for-profit initiative of IDFC Limited). DIMTS
with the industry via internships and company projects,
provides concept-to-commissioning consultancy, intelligent
interwoven as an integral part of the curriculum for MBA
transport system solutions and urban transport asset
and BSBA courses. In fact the strength of IMT’s links to the
management services.
corporate world sets the university apart and gives it a strong academic advantage.
204 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
One of India’s most respected and leading English
With a reach of more than 120 countries and access to
newspapers, that has pioneered trends in journalism, setting
more than 500 million viewers globally, Zee TV MENAP
standards and breaking new ground for the last 80 years.
is the largest media franchise serving the South Asian
Spurred by the leading faces of Indian journalism, it is today
diaspora. The US$ 5 billion network’s Middle East footprint
the newspaper of choice of over 4.7 million Indians.
has a viewership of over 2.6 million South Asians in the MENAP region.
Mint is the business paper from Hindustan Times in association with The Wall Street Journal. It is a premium business news publication aimed at decision makers and policy makers of the country , with the premise of bringing “Clarity in Business News”.
CNBC-TV 18 is India’s no. 1 business medium and the undisputed
leader
in
business
news.
The
channel’s
benchmark coverage extends from corporate news, financial markets coverage, expert perspective on investing and management to industry verticals and beyond.
Vanguard of the ABLF Series | 205
ABLF
206
ABLF IP CREATORS & ARCHITECTS
ABLF
Indian Expressions is a leading Middle East based event strategy, design and IP development company that owns and manages event properties that are Asia-centric, Asia-focused and Asia-inspired for the global market.
The Indian Expressions mandate is to showcase Asia and key Asian achievements through a number of specialty programmes, events, business forums, conclaves, PR junkets, business awards and high‑profile publishing initiatives.
Indian Expressions brings together business forces from India, the Gulf and South-East Asia in joint ventures with cross-investment agendas by creating networking forums that facilitate the great business potential between these mega economies. Focusing on the dynamic business regions that are on a rapidly rising growth trajectory since the turn of the decade, Indian Expressions showcases visionaries and architects of Asia who have firmly cemented relationships with strong business initiatives and alliances and helped place Asia on the cusp of a sweeping economic renaissance.
With a portfolio of over 500 successful events, Indian Expressions’ initiatives facilitate joint venture projects, M&A deals and big-ticket investments through powerful custom-created networking opportunities.
For almost two decades, Indian Expressions has specialised in creating and delivering networking infrastructure that facilitates the launch of new businesses, events and initiatives by securing funds, offering professional advisory services and creating custom-built PR solutions for India and GCC markets through its extensive corporate network.
Indian Expressions owns, co-owns and manages brand, event and publishing IP portfolios, such as the ‘Asian Business Awards Middle East™’, ‘TopicIndia’, the ‘Images of Success™’ and the ‘ICLF Series’, among others.
ABLF IP Creators & Architects | 207
ABLF The ABLF Series Event Architects are sincerely grateful to the following people for their support, guidance and encouragement towards the development of the event property.
H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, UAE; H.E. Pranab Mukherjee, Honorable President of India; Dr Manmohan Singh, Honorable Prime Minister of India; H.E. Kamal Nath, Union Cabinet Minister of Urban Development and Parliamentary Affairs, India; H.E. Dr Thaksin Shinawatra, Former Prime Minister, Thailand; H.E. Maqbool Ali Sultan, Former Minister of Commerce and Industry, Oman; H.E. Vayalar Ravi, Union Cabinet Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs, India; H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman & Chief Executive, Emir-
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
ates Airline & Group, UAE; H.E. Gita Wirjawan, Minister of Trade, Indonesia; H.E. Kapil Sibal, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, India; Mr T.K.A. Nair, Advisor to the Prime Minister of India; Mr Venu Rajamony, Press Secretary to the President of India; H.E. M.K. Lokesh, Ambassador of India to the UAE; H.E. Khalil Al Khonji, Chairman, Federation of GCC Chambers & Oman Chamber of Commerce & Industry; H.E. Salman Al Farisi, Ambassador of Indonesia to the UAE; H.E. Low Pit Chen, Ambassador of Singapore to the UAE; H.E. Gurjit Singh, Ambassador of India to the Republic of Indonesia; Mr Gautam Adani, Chairman, Adani Group, India; Mr Pranav Adani, Managing Director, Agro and Oil & Gas, Adani Group, India; Mr Rajiv Singh, Vice Chairman, DLF Limited, India; Mr Rajeev Talwar, Managing Director, DLF Limited, India; Dr Rajiv Lall, Executive Chairman, IDFC Limited, India; Mr Rajiv Luthra, Founder & Managing Partner, Luthra & Luthra Law Offices, India; Mr Naveen Jindal, Chairman, Jindal Steel & Power Ltd, India; Dr P. Mohamed Ali, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Galfar, Oman; Mr Rajen Kilachand, Chairman & President,
208 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
ABLF Dodsal Group, UAE; Dr M. Chatib Basri, Chairman, BKPM (Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board); Mr Stephen Huttler, Senior Partner, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, USA; Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Managing Director & CEO, Masdar, UAE; Mr Yusuffali M.A., Managing Director, EMKE Group, UAE; Mr Adi Godrej, Chairman, Godrej Group, India; Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, Confederation of Indian Industry, India; H.E. Khalfan Saeed
We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the distinguished panellists that took time out from their busy schedules to bring their invaluable expertise to the inaugural forum of the ABLF Knowledge Congress.
Jumaa Al Kaabi, Vice Chairman, Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE; H.E. Mohamed
Cheif Chair H.E. Kamal Nath, Union Cabinet Minister of Urban De-
Helal Al Muhairi, Director General, Abu Dhabi Chamber, UAE; Mr Jeffrey
velopment and Parliamentary Affairs, India; Mr T.K.A. Nair, Advisor to
Singer, CEO, Dubai International financial Center, UAE; H.E. Abdulraheem
the Prime Minister of India; Dr Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor, Higher
Hasan Naqi, Secretary General, Federation of GCC Chambers of Commerce,
Colleges of Technology, UAE; Mr Naveen Jindal, Chairman, Jindal Steel
KSA; Mr Ramesh Prabhakar, Managing Director, Rivoli Group, UAE; Mr S.N.
& Power Ltd, India; Ms Fatima Al Jaber, COO & Executive Director,
Sahai, Managing Director & Chief Executive, DIMTS, India; Dr Janakiraman
Al Jaber Group, UAE; Mr Rajiv Luthra, Founder & Managing Partner,
Moorthy, Director, Institute of Management Technology, UAE; Mr Hasu Mas-
Luthra & Luthra Law Offices, India; Mr Rajen Kilachand, Chairman &
rani, Chairman, Mitras International Trading, UAE; H.E. Remy Rowhani, Di-
President, Dodsal Group, UAE; Dr M. Chatib Basri, Chairman, BKPM
rector General, Qatar Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Qatar; H.E. Rashid
(Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board); Mr Stephen Huttler, Sen-
Al Leem, Director General, Hamriyah Free Zone, UAE; Mr Khalid Salmeen,
ior Partner, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, USA; Mr Dwi Soetjipto,
Executive Vice President, Industrial Zones, Abu Dhabi Ports Company, UAE; Mr
President Director, PT Semen Gresik, Indonesia; Mr Vikram Limaye,
Syed Salahuddin, Managing Director, ETA Ascon Star, UAE; Dr B.R. Shetty,
Managing Director & CEO, IDFC Limited, India; Mr M.K. Sinha, Manag-
CEO & Managing Director, NMC Group, UAE; and Mr T.P. Sreenivasan, Vice
ing Director & CEO, IDFC Alternatives Ltd, India; Mr Naval Bir Kumar,
Chairman & Executive Head of the Kerala State Higher Education Council, India.
Vice Chairman, IDFC Mutual Fund, India; Mr Essa Abdulla Al Ghurair, Vice Chairman, Al Ghurair Investment, UAE; Mr M.K.V. Ramarao, Executive Director, NTPC Ltd, India; Mr Trevor Nash, Chief Operating Officer, Masdar, UAE; Mr Alexander Haex, Vice President , Business Development, Kizad, UAE; Dr Kamal Shehadi, Senior VP for Regulatory Affairs, Etisalat, UAE; and Sheikh Abdul Aziz Ahmed Sultan Al Hosni, Vice Chairman, Qurum Business Group, Oman.
Acknowledgement | 209
ABLF INDEX
A Aboud, Nasser Bin 63, 73 Abubacker, Sameer 160 Adani, Gautam 2, 29 Adani, Pranav 30, 85, 188 Al Fahim, Mohammed 2 Al Ghaith, Ghaith 2, 171 Al Ghassani, Zakariya S. 63 Al Ghurair, Essa Abdullah 54, 56, 61, 65, 66, 67, 70, 71, 72, 73 Al Gurg, Raja Easa 120 Al Hosni, Sheikh Abdul Aziz Ahmed Sultan 50, 53, 61, 69 Al Jaber, Fatima 50, 52, 61, 65, 69, 72, 76, 89, 146, 153, 156, 168 Al Jaber, Obaid 2 Al Mehairbi, Mohamed H. 63, 73 Al Neaimi, Mohamed 63, 73 Al Qubaisi, Nashwa 89, 147, 153, 156 Al Refaei, Mohammed 147, 164 Al Rawas, Amer bin Awadh 128, 147, 151, 163, 169 Al Shamsi, Obaid 62 Al Zawawi, Omar Bin Abdul Muniem 112 Al Zubair, Mohammed 2, 170 Alabbar, Mohammed 100 Ali, P. Mohamed 60, 67, 73, 146, 149, 153, 155, 160, 169, 197 Ali, Yusuff M.A. 60, 65, 66, 72, 73, 147, 149, 154, 155, 161, 169 Allawati, Baha Mohammed Ridha 62, 67 Ambani, Dhirubhai 2, 170 Aqeel, Hisham 149, 162 Arab, Rajesh 161 Arora, Amit 148, 156, 158, 162 Asnani, Amit 165 Awan, Malik Noureed 149, 161, 168 B Bahwan, Hind 2, 171 Balachandran, Siddharth 148, 160 Banerjee, Chandrajit 85 Basri, M. Chatib 46, 48, 60, 70, 71, 201 Bharadwaj, Anil 62 Bhargava, Anoop 156, 157, 165 Bhatia, Rajesh 62 Beg, Alyza 165, 168 Bodani, Hitesh 148, 155 Booth, Robert 147, 156, 162, 166 Butaney, Bharat 61, 71 Butt, Hamid 148 Buxani, Ram 61, 71 D Deshpande, Yogesh 161, 164 Dharaniraj, Venkat 62 Darmawan, Indra 62, 72 E Edward, George 63 G Galadari, Rashid A.W. 63, 73 Gangaramani, Natasha 147, 160, 165 Gaur, Manoj 130
210 | History-Makers of the New Asian Century
Godrej, Adi 85 Gulati, Prashant K. 62 H H.E. Abdulraheem Hasan Naqi 60, 65, 72 H.E. Dhaen Al Hamli 2, 104 H.E. Dr Thaksin Shinawatra 2, 28, 94, 108, 146, 149, 151, 152, 153, 154, 158, 162, 166 H.E. Gita Wirjawan 2, 28, 45 H.H. H. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono 212 H.E. Kamal Nath 2, 21, 40, 42, 50, 52, 60, 64, 65, 67, 69, 73, 106 H.E. Kapil Sibal 2, 35 H.E. Khalfan Saeed Jumaa Al Kaabi 146, 156, 167 H.H. Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan 2 H.E. Khalil Abdullah Al Khonji 85, 147, 149, 151, 152, 153, 154, 163, 166, 167, 201 H.E. M.K. Lokesh 60, 65, 67, 71, 72, 85, 146, 149, 154, 155 H.E. Manmohan Singh 16 H.E. Maqbool Ali Sultan 29, 146, 151, 152, 154, 163, 167 H.E. Mohamed Helal Al Muhairi 60, 65, 66, 70, 71, 147, 152, 153, 158, 163, 168, 200 H.E. Pit Chen Low 85, 146, 167 H.E. Pranab Mukherjee 14 H.E. Rashid Al Leem 146, 151, 153, 157, 160, 168 H.E. Salman Al Farisi 60, 67, 73, 85, 146, 154, 162, 169 H.E. Sultan Bin Sulayem 136 H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum 2, 28 H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum 2, 213 H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan 2, 11, 38, 40, 60, 64, 65, 71, 73, 88, 89, 90, 93, 146, 149, 150, 152, 153, 154, 166 H.E. Talmiz Ahmed 2 H.E. Vayalar Ravi 2, 81 Haex, Alexander 46, 49, 61, 71 Hareb, Salma 2, 171 Hariyoga, Himawan 63 Hood, Nabeel 148, 160 Huttler, Stephen 54, 56, 61, 66, 71, 195 J Jagtiani, Renuka 2 Jalal, Kabeer 63 Jashanmal, Mohan 61, 65, 71, 146, 153, 160 Jashanmal, Tony 148, 151, 153 Jatania, George 147, 156, 159 Jindal, Naveen 46, 49, 50, 53, 60, 67, 68, 70, 71, 72, 172, 198 John, Ajay 161, 164 Jurgenson, Stephen 62, 67, 148, 161, 165 K Kalyani, Baba 114, 146, 155, 157, 167 Kamali, Tayeb 32, 45, 46, 60, 66, 71, 85 Kamdani, Shinta Widjaja 124 Katta, Prasad 63 Khalil, Raees 63, 164 Khalil, Syed S.M. 63, 67, 70, 73, 156, 164 Khan, Riz 2 Kilachand, Nikhil 62, 73 Kilachand, Rajen 50, 52, 60, 65, 67, 68, 147, 149, 151, 154, 158, 162, 169, 196 Kocchar, Chanda 2, 171 Kumar, Animesh 148, 89, 155 Kumar, Naval Bir 46, 49, 61, 71
L Lall, Rajiv 58, 85, 192 Limaye, Vikram 50, 53, 61, 68, 70 Lum, Olivia 2, 171 Luthra, Rajiv 54, 55, 60, 66, 74, 85, 89, 147, 155, 156, 162, 164, 169, 194 Luthra, Vandana 144, 147, 155, 157, 159, 162, 164, 168 M Mahbubani, Kishore 116 Mahindra, Anand 138 Masrani, Hasu 147, 162 Mathew, Manoj 148, 161, 164 McLaughlin-Duane, Rebecca 155 Menon, Bindu 148, 165 Menon, Keshav N. 157, 163 Menon, Malini N. 60, 67, 72, 146, 150, 156, 157, 162, 165 Mirchandani, Rajesh 165 Mirchandani, Rakesh 165 Mittal, Lakshmi 2 Mohiyuddin, Shamsuddin 62, 67 Moore, Charles 146, 151, 157 Moorthy, Janakiraman 62, 149 Murthy, Narayana 2 N Naik, A.M. 2, 171 Nair, T.K.A. 50, 51, 60, 65, 67, 70, 71, 72, 73, 85 Nandakumar, V. 148, 165 Nathan, A.K. 132 Nash, Trevor 54, 57, 61, 70 P Philip, Robin 161, 164 Pillai, Gopinath 2, 170 Prabhakar, Ramesh 2 Prasad, Manoj 63, 148, 156, 159, 163 Puranamo, Chayo 62, 72, 148, 162 R Rajamony, Venu 146, 149, 152, 156, 160, 162, 165 Rao, N.S. 149, 169 Ramarao, M.K.V. 54, 57, 61, 66, 70 Ruia, Shashi 2, 171 S Sahai, S.N. 62, 70 Salahuddin, Hameed 62 Salahuddin, Syed M. 2, 61, 66 Salim, M.A. 62 Salmeen, Khaled 147, 153, 156, 164, 163, 169 Seemar, Satish 148, 151, 159, 161 Sethi, Ajay 148, 155, 156, 158, 161 Sharma, V.R. 62 Shehadi, Kamal 50, 53, 61, 69 Shetty, B.R. 60, 71, 72, 73 Siddiqui, Abdul Rahman 63 Singh, Kulwant 148, 157, 161, 162 Singh Kushal Pal 2, 29 Singh, Pradeep 83, 89, 147, 157, 160, 162, 165, 169 Singh, Rajiv 85 Singh, Surinder 63, 70
Sinha, M.K. 54, 57, 62, 66, 70 Soetjipto, Dwi 46, 48, 61, 72, 73 Srinivasan, Mallika 122, 147, 156, 159, 168 Sudradjat, Heru 62 Sultan, Aqeel Jawad 147, 157, 161, 162 T Tahija, George 2, 171 Talwar, Rajeev 190 Tata, Ratan 2, 170 Thapar, Gautam 171 Thohir, Garibaldi 140 Tomar, Sudhakar 163 Tripathi, Dilip 165, W Wahbi, Omar S. 164 Y Yen, Stephen Lee Ching 2, 171 Z Zaal, Mohammed Zaal 2
PHOTO CREDITS •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Accessed from http://www.managementthinking.eiu.com (Asia Competitor Barometer: Precision engineering, Economist Intelligence Unit Report) Accessed from http://www.bp.com (Energy Outlook 2030: the future of energy) Accessed from http://www.mckinsey.com (Rethinking Infrastructure) Accessed from http://www.pwc.com (Emerging Markets – New hubs, new spokes, new industry leaders?) Al Jazeera http://www.aljazeera.com/ Asian Development Bank http://www.adb.org Asian Development Bank Institute http://www.adbi.org Bar & Bench http://barandbench.com BBC News http://news.bbc.co.uk Bloomberg Businessweek http://investing.businessweek.com BP Global http://www.bp.com Curious Cat http://investing.curiouscatblog.net Exxon Mobil http://www.exxonmobil.com Federal Reserve Bank of Boston http://www.bostonfed.org Financial Times http://www.ft.com Forbes Global http://www.forbes.com Forbes India http://forbesindia.com Fortune Global Global Issues http://www.globalissues.org India and the World – A Blueprint for Partnership & Growth India Law Journal http://www.indialawjournal.com Inpec http://inpec.in/ Iowa State University http://www.soc.iastate.edu JSTOR http://www.jstor.org Knowledge @ Wharton http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/ Luthra & Luthra Law Offices http://www.luthra.com McKinsey Quarterly http://www.mckinseyquarterly.com M K Gandhi http://www.mkgandhi.org
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
National Institute of Open Schooling http://nos.org Oman Ministry of Information http://www.omanet.om Peterson Institute for International Economics http://www.piie.com Platts http://www.platts.com President of India http://presidentofindia.nic.in PricewaterhouseCoopers http://www.pwc.com Prime Minister of India website http://pmindia.nic.in Rediff http://ia.rediff.com Sage Journals http://wes.sagepub.com Shanghai-China http://shanghaichina.ca South Asian Network of Economic Research Institutes http://www.saneinetwork.net/ Tata Group http://www.tata.com The Big Picture http://www.ritholtz.com The Economic Times http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com The Economist http://www.economist.com The Guardian http://www.guardian.co.uk The National Bureau of Economic Research http://www. nber.org The New York Times http://www.nytimes.com The Oil & Gas Year http://www.theoilandgasyear.com The Straits Times http://www.straitstimes.com The Wall Street Journal http://topics.wsj.com The World Bank http://web.worldbank.org United Nations http://www.un.org United Nations Economic & Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific http://www.unescap.org United Nations Global Compact http://www.unglobalcompact.org/ University of Chicago – School of Business http://www.chicagobooth.edu US Census Bureau http://www.census.gov World Nuclear Association http://www.world-nuclear.org World Steel Association http://www.worldsteel.org
• • •
ABLF
Hyflux Ltd., Singapore – p.171 top row, right Singapore Airlines, Singapore – p.171 middle row, right Larsen & Toubro Ltd., India - p.171 bottom row, second image from left • Avantha Group, India - p.171 bottom row, third image from left • Pt Austindo Nusantara Jaya, Indonesia - p.171 bottom row, right • Adani Group, India – p.188-189 • DLF Limited, India – p.190-191
HISTORY-MAKERS OF THE NEW ASIAN CENTURY (VOLUME II) CONTENT, COPY, DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Indian Expressions team in dubai led by Malini N. Menon Keshav N. Menon Mariya Shabbir Padrawala Maclein Cornelio Rodel S. Rivas Parinaaz Navdar Davina Raisinghani Doreen Mattisson Laju Nanwani Akshata Shanbhag Sharavati Choksi
PHOTO REFERENCES • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Adani Group, India – p.29 left Abhijit Bhatlekar / Bloomberg News – p.29 center Adani Group, India – p.30 Idfc Limited, India – p.58 The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, UAE – p.86 Emaar Properties, UAE – p.100 Omzest Group, Oman – p.112 Lee Kuan School of Public Policy – p.116 Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, UAE – p.120 Sintesa Group, Indonesia – p.124 Jaypee Group, India – p.130 Eversendai Group, Malaysia – p.132 Dp World, Uae – p.136 Mahindra & Mahindra, India – p.138 Pt Adaro Energy, Indonesia – p.140 Reliance Group, India – p.170 top The Zubair Corporation, Oman – p.170 bottom left Realwire – p.170 bottom center Murali D. – p.170 bottom right Icici Bank, India – p.171 top row, center
Index | References & Photo Credits | 211
ABLF KNOWLEDGE CONGRESS 2013 Keeping with the ABLF’s spirit of collaboration, in 2013 the Knowledge Forum seeks to bring together a powerful consortium of thinkers, speakers and delegates in a significant conversation on the key drivers of global economy - Industry, Infrastructure and Energy.
Featuring an attendee profile of a calibre unseen before, of decision-makers, policy-leaders and economyinfluencers, the ABLF Knowledge Congress 2013 will create a powerful platform for showcasing key cross– investments opportunities and targeted interface between leadership of the Gulf, India and South-East Asia.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO HOST THIS YEAR’S ABLF IN YOUR CITY?
At Indian Expressions, we have taken great care to build the Asian Business Leadership Forum IP as a zeitgeist event series that encapsulates the story of Asia in the global business-scape while presenting the Asian spirit of excellence through celebration, conversation and collaboration.
The 2013 edition of the ABLF Series will be a consolidation year for the event platform, as it showcases exemplary Asian leadership who are implementing breakthrough strategies to create profitable business growth and positive social change that reinforces and supports the global economy.
ABLF AWARDS 2013 In the diligent pursuit to celebrate excellence in the Asian business-scape and highlight the crème de la crème of the leadership faction operating in the region, the highly anticipated 2013 edition of the ABLF Awards will be an event bigger in relevance, participation and reputation, as we engage in exciting new associations and prestigious partnerships that expand our mandate and take Asia’s Industry, Infrastructure & Energy sectors on showcase globally.
An extraordinary evening of friendship, celebration and camaraderie, attended by the elite strata of the corporate world and esteemed government dignitaries from all across Asia and globally, the ABLF 2013 Gala Awards Night will set it on the trajectory to become one of the most important business events in Asia.
LET US KNOW
Log on to www.ablfseries.com, and vote for your destination of choice.
ABLF SERIES 2013 ABLF SERIES 2013 ABLF SERIES 2013
BE A PART OF CREATING A LEGACY OF A LIFETIME
THE ABLF SERIES SERIES 2013 ABLF 2013
ABLF SERIES 2013
ABLF SERIES 2013
ABLF SERIES 2013 ABLF SERIES 2013 ABLF SERIES 2013 CAN YOU AFFORD TO MISS IT? ABLF SERIES 2013 ABLF SERIES 2013
ABLF SERIES 2013
The spirit of Asia comes together in Celebration, Conversation & Collaboration ‘History-Makers of the New Asian Century’ is the signature publication of the Asian Business Leadership Forum Series. An international event, the ABLF Series showcases business excellence in the sunshine sectors of Industry, Infrastructure and Energy. It brings together Asian nations of the world in an annual event Series, which celebrates the rise of Asia in the collective global consciousness, through a seamless fusion of old-school and new-age values. The 2012 showcase honoured and celebrated business achievers from across the three key regions of the Asian juggernaut – the Gulf, India and South-East Asia – and paid tribute to exemplary leaders who have played a significant role in the story of ‘Asia Rising’. It also provided these pioneers with a platform to collaborate and pool together their efforts to catapult Asia into an even more successful tomorrow. Volume I, which was the inaugural edition, featured the ABLF Series 2011 showcases and paid tribute to the business acumen of the Asian representatives of the changing face of leadership. This second edition encapsulates their pursuit of business excellence and archives their plans for the future.
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