In 1952 a new milestone in the history of advertising in Malaya and Singapore was written. The Malayan Advertisers Association (MAA) was formed in Singapore.

The need to organize an Association of Advertisers, in the midst of the chaos then brewing within the advertising industry, was deemed vital for the survival of the industry and the bringing about of order and progress.

We are indeed grateful to the small band of far-sighted senior managers, who came from about half a dozen leading companies, led by the late Max Lewis for establishing the foundation upon which the Advertisers Association of Malaysia and Singapore is solidly supported today.

MAA has grown from a far cry in the wilderness to an Association with a membership that represents a multitude of companies covering detergents to foods, petroleum to cigarettes, airlines to banks etc.

In 1964, the advertising fraternity in Malaysia and Singapore were required to make the painful, but inevitable decision to go their separate ways following the political split between the two territories which came about in 1965. Coming back to the scenario in Malaysia, both the MAA and 4As were established as separate entities from Singapore in 1964.

In the next decade, there followed some of the most dramatic developments in the history of advertising in Malaysia, measures which saw the establishment of a sound infrastructure, and the widening arena for advertising practice in this country.

II. Mission

To attain credibility as the official/consultant and guardian of Malaysia's ad industry by championing the needs and aspirations of the advertising fraternity. To be the industry's leader in exploring challenges and ideas for the benefit of members whilst providing amicable solutions to industry issues.

III. Objectives

The main objects of the Association to generally promote, further and protect the mutual interests of members; providing an official voice for members and act with one purpose on advertising matters; promoting or opposing legislative and other measures capable of affecting advertisers.

IV. Current office bearers

The president, Vice-President and nine Council Members are elected from amongst ordinary members at each annual general meeting.

The current office bearers are :

YB Dato Dr Jaffar

Predisent : Mr Shahar Noor (Panasonic Malaysia Sdn Bhd)

Vice-President : Mr Peter Anthony (Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd)

Counsil Members :

Mr Albert Low
Mr Bharat Avalani
Mdm Hamidah Yusoff
Mr Khoo Kar Khoon
Mr Muhammad Zain Ibrahim
Ms Tay Ai Leen
Ms Kala V Devan
Mr Chow Wei Heng

V. Activities and other relevant information

MAA is committed to improving knowledge of the ad industry and its effects, and this is done partially through various tea talks that are held from time to time for the benefit of members. MAA has through the years, organized an annual event commonly referred to as the AdBall. It is perceived as the premier social event for the advertising fraternity.

Education remains a priority and MAA will continue to intensify efforts to provide first class industry courses, through Institute Advertising Communication Training.

VI. Contact Information

Representative: Mr Shahar Noor

Unit 706, Block B,
Pusat Dagangan Phileo Damansara 1
9, Jalan 16/11, Off Jalan Damansara
46350 Petaling Jaya
MALAYSIA

Tel : 603-7660-8595
Fax: 603-7660-8532

Email: maa@macomm.com.my

Website : www.abcm.com.my/page.php?id=14