The  Congress is a four-yearly event of the Asia Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (AAMLS) which was formed in Nagoya, Japan on 14 May 1997 comprising 12 Asian countries namely Japan, China, SAR Hong Kong (China), Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Malaysia, Singapore Brunei, Indonesia and Philippines.` The 1^st Congress was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 2001, the 2^nd in Shanghai in 2005 and the 3^rd in Yokohama, Japan in 2009.

The objectives in the establishment of the AAMLS are to educate the medical laboratory scientists in Asian countries, to exchange a variety of information on medical testing, for mutual support in special laboratory techniques and for quality assurance.

The Congress gives a great opportunity to Medical Laboratory Scientists as well as those interested professionals to get together every four years  and share new knowledge and technologies in the field of medical laboratory medicine. The Congress offers the chance to bring forward the ideas and technologies to the next generation as well as the opportunity to network with an international audience of scientists, technologists, executives and decision makers.

Situated at one of the most important crossroads of the world, Singapore is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city where tradition and modernity East and West meet and mingle most agreeable and harmoniously. When you meet in Singapore, you are at the centre for business and pleasure.

The various luxury hotels, offering impeccable standards of Asian service and hospitality and modern shopping malls dotting this tropical island are well-connected by the efficient Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network, and Singapore’s bustling port, world-renowned international Changi airport., and thriving business, are all testimonies to Singapore’s standing as one of the leading financial, economic and trading centres in the region. As Asia’s convention and exhibition capital, Singapore offers superb facilities and excellent support in every aspect of event planning and coordination.

When it comes to fun, Singapore is your tropical playground, where there is so much to discover and experience. To whet your appetite, there is a wide choice of cuisine from all over the world found right here in this gourmet paradise. Besides this, a wide choice of leisure experiences awaits you, from spa treatments to pub-hopping and attractions galore. And form your entertainment pleasure, there is an array of cultural and modern dance, theatre concerts and world-class musicals found in this City for the Arts. This friendly city keeps you entertained non-stop, where the world comes together for pure employment.

The climate in Singapore is warm and welcoming all year round with temperatures ranging between 31^oC in the day and 23^o C in the night. English is a widely spoken language and the common business language of all. And you will be able to experience Singapore to the fullest, especially since Singapore is known in to be one of the safest cities in the world.

The Singapore Association for Medical Laboratory Sciences (SAMLS), under the auspices of the Asia Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (AAMLS) is pleased to announce the 4^th Congress of AAMLS to be held from 2 – 4 October 2013. The Congress is a 4-yearly event of AAMLS. The theme chosen for this Congress is “Laboratory Challenges and Emerging Technologies”. It is a great pleasure to invite you to participate in the 4^th Congress.

The objective of the Congress is to promote the exchange of knowledge, ideas and information on the latest developments and emerging technologies in the area of medical laboratory science among laboratory professionals. An exciting scientific programme has been lined up for every medical laboratory professional and those interested in medical laboratory science in this region. Several eminent international and local speakers will be invited to speak on topics and conduct sessions in their fields of expertise. Delegates will have the opportunity to also exchange their ideas and experience at the Congress.  We hope that members and friends would take this opportunity to update themselves as well as to catch up with fellow colleagues.

The social programme for delegates and accompanying guests has been planned to provide not only an introduction to the many scenic attractions of our beautiful garden-convention city, a veritable shopper’s paradise, but also an insight into the rich and unique blend of our multicultural society and cuisine. In addition, arrangements can be made for visits to our equally fascinating ASIAN neighbours. A trade exhibition will also be organised in conjunction with the Congress. This will showcase state-of-the-art medical laboratory equipment and diagnostic aids by leading manufacturers, suppliers and specialists.

On behalf of SAMLS, may I extend this invitation to all our colleagues and friends to come to Singapore to make this event enjoyable, educational and unforgettable. We look forward to seeing you in Singapore, come 2013.

Dr Eddie Ang

President

• Airport Transfers

The most convenient means of transport is by taxis which are all metered. There is a surcharge for a journey originating from Changi Airport. Inexpensive public transport is readily available in Singapore. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system offers quick access to all parts of the island. Congress hotels are all within walking distance of bus stops and MRT stations.

• Certificate of Participation

A certificate of participation will be issued to all delegates attending the Congress. Day registrants will not be issued with the certificate of participation.

• Currency

The unit of currency is the Singapore Dollar (S$). For currency exchange, banks and money changers are located in most shopping centres and at the airport. Credit cards are widely accepted.

• Disclaimer

While every attempt will be made to ensure that all aspects of the Congress published in this announcement will taker place as scheduled, the Organising Committee shall not be held responsible should it fail to take place for any reason.

• Electricity

The electric current is 220-240 volts AC 50 Hertz; and upon request, most hotels will provide transformers to guests with electrical appliances of a different voltage.

• Food

Food is a national passion among Singaporeans. From street-side hawker stalls to Cordon Bleu, the city is home to a delicious array of Chinese, Indian and Malay cuisines as well as culinary favourites from all over the world. There are restaurants that suit every budget.

• Language

The official language of the Congress will be English. There will be no simultaneous translation.

• Letter of Invitation

Upon request, the Organising Committee will issue a letter of invitation. The sole purpose of the letter is to facilitate the delegate’s travel and visa arrangements. The invitation does not imply provision of financial or other support.

• Liability

The Organising Committee is not liable for personal accidents, loss or damage of private properties of registered delegates during the Congress. Delegates should make their own arrangements with respect to personal insurance.

• Littering

Please note that there are laws in place to discourage littering.

• Shopping

Singapore’s duty-free status brings together the world’s most competitive bargains, good service and a wide range of goods provide an unbeatable shopping experience. Most shops are open 7 days a week, between 10:00 and 21:00.

• Smoking

Please note that we operate a strict no-smoking policy at all our events. In addition, smoking in Singapore is banned in public buses, taxis, lifts, theatres, government offices, cinemas, shopping centres, restuarants and covered areas.

• Visas

All international visitors require a valid passport for entry into Singapore and some visitors will require a visa also. Please check with your travel agent or local Singapore Embassy for information. If you require a visa, we recommend that you apply early as processing documentation can take time.

• Weather

Singapore enjoys warm tropical weather throughout the year. Temperatures reach a maximum of 32^oC during the day, falling to a pleasant 25^oC during the evening hours.

• Congress Secretariat

4^th Congress of AAMLS 2013

c/o Alumni Association (SB) Medical Centre

2 College Road, Singapore 169850

Tel (65) 63266266 Fax (65) 62240938

Email: secretariat-aamls2013@samls.org

Website: aamls-samls2013@samls.org