World Forum Confirmation Kit

May 15 – 18, 2007 Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Click here to download a printable Confirmation Kit.

For your convenience, this kit is divided into six sections:

Part One: About Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia
In this section you will learn more about the great city of Kuala Lumpur and other helpful and interesting details about Malaysia.

Part Two: Etiquette for Visitors to Malaysia
Here you will find tips to help introduce you to the customs and practices of the Malaysian culture.

Part Three: About Entry Requirements
Be sure to carefully read the entry requirements so you can secure a visa if you need one!

Part Four: About Lodging and Transportation
Here you will learn about the conference hotel and how to make your reservations.

Part Five: About the World Forum
This section will provide an introduction to the unique features of the World Forum. You are encouraged to check out additional activities that you may want to register for in advance.

Part Six: Final Checklist
Use this short checklist to be sure that you aren't forgetting anything important in your preparations for the World Forum.

Part One: About Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia

Malaysia beckons all -- the seasoned traveler as well as the uninitiated seeking to discover for the first time its much-publicized charms. "Selamat Datang!" means "welcome" in Bahasa Melayu, the national language. This greeting is written on the faces, expressed in the gestures, and exhibited in the unrestrained friendliness of its people and reflects the heartwarming charm and genuine hospitality of Malaysia.

Malaysia is a fascinating tropical paradise located in the heart of Southeast Asia. Here you will be able to experience not one, but a diversity of Asian cultures in a single destination. From its people to its food to its sights and sound...Malaysia is indeed a unique showcase of diversity.

Visitors will discover a delightful fusion of three of Asia's oldest civilizations: Malay, Chinese, and Indian. This geo-cultural mix is made even more interesting by the assimilation of other cultures into the fabric of its society, including the indigenous cultures of the Kadazans, Ibans, and other ethnic groups of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as the influence of the British, Portuguese, Dutch, and Thais. Malays make up about 57 percent of the population of Malaysia. Chinese, Indians, and other ethnic groups make up the balance. Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the national language of Malaysia, but English is widely spoken. The other ethnic groups of Malaysia also speak various languages and dialects.

The capital city and main gateway to Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur, a clean, compact, modern metropolis of more than 2 million people. Visitors to Kuala Lumpur can take advantage of world-class accommodation, inexpensive transportation, mouth-watering food, excellent shopping, and a variety of places to see and things to do. Kuala Lumpur, or KL as it is popularly known, is the hub of commerce, entertainment, and international activities.

The rapidly changing skyline of Kuala Lumpur boasts the magnificent Petronas Twin Towers, standing at 452 meters, as well as the Menara Kuala Lumpur, one of the world's tallest telecommunication structures. Despite its transformation into an ultra-modern city, Kuala Lumpur is also known for preserving its heritage buildings. The many beautifully landscaped parks and gardens, as well as streets adorned with trees and shrubs colorfully lit by night, have earned Kuala Lumpur its reputation as the "Garden City of Lights."

In Kuala Lumpur, culinary pleasures can be enjoyed almost everywhere. Hawker centers offer the unique experience of open-air dining at very economical prices. Food courts, found in many shopping malls, serve a variety of local and continental food in air-conditioned comfort. Sidewalk cafes and fine dining restaurants boast ambiance and impeccable service with delicious fare. In addition to Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine, it is also easy to find Continental, American, French, Italian, Japanese, Thai, and Korean restaurants.

Shopping:
Malaysia is a premier shopping destination in Southeast Asia. Shops, bazaars, and shopping centers offer a staggering variety of clothing, cosmetics, shoes, handbags, household conveniences, and electronics. From the antique and the exotic to the ultra modern, the constantly changing range of products includes an extensive collection of designer labels from the fashion capitals of the world.

For casual shopping there are roadside stalls, bazaars, and night markets. A major attraction is the colorful, bustling night market (or pasar malam), which stocks a bewildering variety of goods, local foods, and fruits. Shopping at pasar malam is an experience to be enjoyed. Despite the low prices, bargaining is expected.

A favorite spot to watch craft-making and painting, and to buy souvenirs is the Central Market. It is also well known for its food outlets. Across from the Central Market are a number of jewelry shops where gold, diamonds, jade, and other precious stones are offered at reasonable prices. Visitors should also check out the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre at Setapak where a fascinating range of pewter mugs, goblets, cutlery, and figurines are available.

Transportation:
Kuala Lumpur has an efficient transportation network that enables visitors to move around conveniently and economically. STAR is an integrated light rail transport system with four main lines connecting different parts of the city. There are stations located at principal areas around the city with several close to the monorail system stations. STAR trains depart every six to ten minutes and operate from 6:00 a.m. through 11:30 p.m. daily. An overhead monorail system connects various parts of the city. It runs close to the Kuala Lumpur Central Station where visitors can board the KLIA Express, which offers direct service to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Taxis are readily available for hire from taxi stands, hailed at the roadside, or paged.

Health Insurance:
Most health insurance plans often do not cover all or any services you might receive outside your country of residence, so you are encouraged to purchase traveler's health insurance before leaving home.

Prescription Drugs:
If you are taking medicine prescribed by your physician, you should bring a copy of the prescription in case it needs to be renewed by a doctor in Malaysia. All medicine should be carried in the container in which it was dispensed. Individuals who need to carry syringes with them should carry proof, such as a letter from a doctor, that they need them.

Religion:
Islam is the official religion of Malaysia, but all other religions are practiced freely.

Government:
Malaysia is ruled by a parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislative system. The Head of State is the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong and the Head of Government is the Prime Minister. The current Prime Minister is Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Climate:
Malaysia has a tropical climate with warm weather all year around. Temperatures range from 21 degrees C. to 32 degrees C. Annual rainfall varies between 2,000 mm and 2,500 mm. In May, the temperature ranges from 24 to 32 degrees C. with average rainfall of 126 mm.

Economic Profile:
Manufacturing constitutes the largest single component of Malaysia's economy. Tourism and commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber, and timber are major contributors to its economy.

Currency:
The unit of currency is the Malaysian Ringgit, indicated as RM. Foreign currencies can be converted at banks and money changers.

Time:
Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.

Weights and Measures:
Malaysia follows the metric system for weights and measures.

Electricity:
Voltage is 220 - 240 volts AC at 40 cycles per second. Three-pin square plugs and sockets are standard.

Other Places to Visit in Malaysia:
For additional information on tours and to make travel arrangements within Malaysia, visit the web site for Asian Overland Services www.AsianOverland.com.my/. This company is a leading tour company in this part of the world and has committed to working with World Forum delegates in arranging for pre- and post-conference travel.

For sightseeing before and after the World Forum, Malaysia offers you endless possibilities. Here is just a sample of the many options awaiting you:

Putrajaya: Garden City, Intelligent City
Designed as a model city, Putrajaya is a thoroughly modern township displaying the best of Malaysian design and architecture in an environmentally friendly setting of beautifully landscaped lakes and parks. Over 38 percent of the land area is devoted to parks, lakes, and wetlands, giving visitors a great opportunity to learn about the country's diversified tropical flora and fauna.

Selangor: Heartland of the Peninsula
Selangor is Malaysia's most developed state, yet there are still large areas of coastal mangroves and lush tropical rainforests. This is a shopper's paradise with a wide range of modern, luxurious malls as well as traditional shops and night markets.

Negeri Sembilan: Land of Quiet Grace
Negeri Sembilan has one of the most accessible beaches, Port Dickson, which is popular with weekenders. There is something for everyone here, from the history buff to the nature lover.

Perlis: Little Northern Gem
Malaysia's smallest state, Perlis, is predominantly agricultural with serene, unspoiled beauty. Its picturesque low-lying padi fields stretch for miles, broken only by occasional outcroppings of limestone.

Kedah: The Ricebowl of Malaysia
Primarily agricultural, Kedah offers a pleasing rural landscape, which takes on different hues of color depending on the seasons of padi. The countryside is greenest when the newly planted padi is sprouting, turns a golden yellow at harvest time, and transforms to an earthy hue thereafter.

Penang: Pearl of the Orient
The state of Penang consists of an island and a strip of land on the mainland linked by one of the longest bridges in Asia. Certain sections of Penang present a quaint picture of the past with narrow side streets, trishaws, temples, and traders plying their goods. This is a shopper's paradise with goods old and new at bargain prices.

Perak: The Silver State
Attractions include old-style Anglo-Malay and Chinese mansions, colonial buildings, ancient limestone caves, temples, and cool hill areas. A number of offshore islands offer visitors a variety of experiences and some outstanding beaches.

Malacca: Historical City
The old part of the city holds many historical attractions tucked into the nooks and crannies of its narrow streets. Shopping, food, and entertainment districts are found in the new section of Malacca, mostly built on land reclaimed from the sea.

Johor: Southern Gateway
Retaining much of its natural splendors, Johor offers miles of golden sand beaches and beautiful offshore islands with clear waters which are excellent for diving. Its forest reserves are home to several rare and endangered species of animals. Some of the country's best golf courses are located here.

Kelantan: Cradle of Malay Culture
Kelantan is a unique travel destination because of its splendid beaches, rich cultural heritage, ornate handicrafts, and wood carvings. Women play a key role in the economy, and the handicrafts they produce are some of the best in the country.

Terengganu: Beachland Paradise
Terengganu is a paradise for beach lovers with beautiful islands lining its shores. Giant Leatherback Turtles make an annual visit here from May to September. Local residents enjoy kite flying, top spinning, and batik printing.

Pahang: Adventures off the Beaten Track
Two-thirds of Pahang is covered with rain forest, but it has a long coastline where fishing and tourism are prominent.

Sabah: Land below the Wind
There are plenty of natural attractions to satisfy the most discerning eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Climbers and nature lovers will thrill to the challenges of Mount Kinabalu, one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia.

Sarawak: Land of the Hornbills
Two-thirds of this land is tropical rainforest and its population of 1.7 million people is made up of 23 ethnic groups. Sarawak is best known for its natural and cultural wonders. The Hornbill, a protected bird, is the state emblem.

Part Two: Etiquette for Visitors to Malaysia

In Malaysia, visitors will discover a wide range of customs and practices, some of which may be quite different than what is practiced in other parts of the world. This guide is designed to help World Forum delegates understand the country and its people for the best possible experience.

Introductions
In Malaysia, introductions are normally acknowledged with a handshake. In the Muslim culture, handshakes are generally exchanged between people of the same gender. Some Muslim women may acknowledge an introduction to a man with a nod of her head and a smile. A handshake can be reciprocated if the woman first offers her hand to a man.

The traditional Malay greeting (salam) resembles a handshake, but with both hands outstretched and without a grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friend's hands, and then brings his hands back to his chest to mean, "I greet you from my heart." The visitor should reciprocate the salam.

Addressing a Person
Malay men and women can be addressed by their first name. For instance, Amirul Bin Yusof should be addressed as Mr. Amirul and not Mr. Yusof, as the latter is his father's name. The term "Bin" means "son of" and "Binti" means "daughter of."

Chinese people have surnames which precede their given name. For instance, a woman whose name is Chia Wei Li can be addressed as Ms. Chia. Some Chinese people have English names, such as James Wong. It would be proper to address him as Mr. Wong.

Indians can be addressed with their given names. For instance, Anand a/l Ravindran should be addressed as Mr. Anand. The abbreviation "a/l" stands for "anak lelaki," meaning "son of" and "a/p" means "anak perempuan" or "daughter of."

Sometimes, names are preceded by the terms "Encik," "Puan," or "Cik." These are Malay terms for "Mr.," "Mrs.," and "Miss," respectively.

Titles
A number of Malaysians have been conferred titles by the Malaysian Government. Among these titles are "Tun," "Tan Sri," "Dato," and "Datuk." It is appropriate to address people by their titles. Political dignitaries are conferred titles such as "Yang Berhormat (YB)" and "Yang Amat Berhormat (YAB)." The term "Mr." or "Encik" is not necessary when addressing a person who has been conferred a title.

Social Visits
Before visiting a home, it is polite to call and inform of your arrival. Shoes should always be removed when entering a Malaysian home. Drinks are generally offered to guests and it is polite to accept.

Gestures
The right hand is always used when eating with one's fingers or when giving and receiving objects. The right forefinger is not used to point to places, objects, or people. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with the four fingers folded underneath is preferred.

Conduct
Public behavior is especially important in Malaysian culture. Most Malaysians refrain from displaying affection in public. It is appropriate for visitors to do the same.

Food and Beverage
Muslims consume halal food and only dine in restaurants which are certified halal. Pork and alcohol are not consumed by Muslims. Toasting is not a common practice.

Dress
A majority of Muslim women wear garments that fully cover their bodies. The use of headscarves is common. Shoes must be removed before entering a mosque or temple. Some mosques provide robes and scarves for women visitors.

Business Cards
It is customary to exchange business cards with those in your business circle. Cards are usually presented with both hands, or with the left hand holding up the right hand. It is polite to spend a few moments studying the card.

Part Three: About Entry Requirements

Health Regulations
Contact your nearest embassy or consulate to confirm any immunization requirements that may be in effect, depending on your country of origin. Yellow Fever vaccination is required for all visitors coming from infected areas or endemic zones except for children under 1 year of age. Delegates from these countries are required to present an International Health Certificate showing Yellow Fever vaccination; the certificate must be valid at least 14 days prior to arrival in Malaysia. This requirement also applies to any delegates who have visited any Yellow Fever infected area or zone within one month prior to arrival in Malaysia.

Yellow Fever vaccinations are mandatory for delegates arriving from the following countries: Burkina Faso, Benin, Central African Republic, Chad, Cameroon, Guinea, Guyana, Guinea Bissau, Gabon, The Gambia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sudan, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Suriname, Togo, and Uganda. Check with your local authorities for any additional countries that may have been added to this list since publication.

Visitors coming from any area where there has been an outbreak of any infectious disease must be in possession of valid vaccination certificates against such infectious diseases. Consult your local authorities on any health requirements.

Passport Requirements
Every person entering Malaysia must possess a valid passport. Any person not in possession of a passport or travel document that is recognized by the Malaysian Government must obtain a Document in Lieu of Passport. Application for a Document in Lieu of Passport can be made at any Malaysian Representative Office. Holders of Travel Documents like a Certificate of Identity, Laisser Passer, Titre de Voyage, or a Country's Certificate of Permanent Residence must guarantee their return to the country that issued the document or their country of residence. The documents must be valid for more than six (6) months beyond the date of entry into Malaysia.

Visa Requirements
A visa is an endorsement in a passport or other recognized travel document indicating that the holder has applied for permission to enter Malaysia and that permission has been granted. Foreign nationals who require a visa to enter Malaysia must apply and obtain a visa in advance at any Malaysian Representative Office before entering the country.

Contact your nearest embassy or consulate or go to www.kin.gov.my to see if you will need to apply for a visa to enter Malaysia. If you do, the process of securing a visa may take several months, depending on your country of origin. Application for visas should be made at the nearest Malaysian Mission. In countries where Malaysian Missions have not been established, applications should be made to the British High Commission or Embassy. Visa applications require the following documentation:

1. Visa application form with three passport-size photographs
2. National passport with remaining validity not less than six months
3. Letter of introduction or invitation letter

Customs / Formalities

Currency
Visitors may bring in or take out any amount of currency, except Malaysia currency. Only RM1000 may be brought in or taken out of Malaysia. If the amount of foreign currency is more than US$2,500, you will be required to complete form IMM26. This form will then be endorsed by immigration officers and returned to you to keep in your passport. When leaving Malaysia, a person must NOT have more money than when entering the country.

Part Four: About Lodging and Transportation

Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur: Your Host Hotel
The 2007 World Forum on Early Care and Education will take place at the award-winning Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's leading five-star property located in the heart of the city's business, shopping, and entertainment district. Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, the Shangri-La is an oasis of calm. From the moment you enter Malaysia's most elegant hotel, you will be pampered with unrivaled luxury and hospitality. Shangri-La's 701 guestrooms and custom-designed suites are beautifully appointed with modern amenities to offer only the best in comfort. Here, World Forum delegates will find the grandeur, tranquility, and elegance that is the hallmark of all Shangri-La properties.

Standard Rooms
Designed to give a commanding view of the city, each guest room comes complete with:

• complimentary daily local newspaper
• coffee and tea making facilities
• flat-screen remote control color television
• hands-free telephone with voice link
• fully stocked refrigerator and mini-bar
• individual room temperature control
• personal safety box
• hair dryer
• iron and ironing board
• 24-hour room service
• individual facsimile and PC modem lines
• wireless Internet access in public areas

Horizon Club Rooms
World Forum delegates who opt to reserve a room or suite on one of the Horizon Club floors will enjoy a host of additional special benefits, including:

• exclusive access to the Horizon Club Lounge located on the 27th floor
• complimentary breakfast every morning
• complimentary refreshments throughout the day
• complimentary daily afternoon tea
• complimentary evening cocktails and hors d'oeuvres
• complimentary suit pressing upon arrival (2 per person)
• purser service
• use of a dedicated Business Center
• complimentary broadband Internet access
• late check-out, subject to availability
• shoeshine service
• unpacking and packing service
• personalized express check-in and check-out

Business Services
The Shangri-La Business Center offers a wide variety of support services to hotel guests:

• five Internet booths with broadband Internet access
• conference rooms
• two workstations with broadband Internet access
• commercial library
• secretarial services
• copy services
• courier services
• translation
• facsimile services

Recreation Opportunities
Once the meetings are over, World Forum delegates will enjoy the extensive recreational facilities at the Shangri-La:

• tennis
• state-of-the-art fitness center
• swimming pool
• steam room and sauna
• massage and hydro pool

Cuisine
In a city famous for its restaurants and exotic Asian cuisine, you can expect no less from the kitchens of the Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur. For Japanese cuisine, there's Zipangu, a modern "Tokyo" style brasserie offering authentic sushi, yakitori, and traditional Japanese specialties. Restaurant Lafite features fine French cuisine complemented by an extensive selection of wines. Lemon Garden Cafe has two unique dining concepts - Cinnamon, the city's ultra-trendy coffee bar, and the "live" Buffet Arena offering a smorgasbord of Malay, Indian, Chinese, Italian, and Continental specialties. Other food and beverage options include Shang Palace for Cantonese cuisine, the Lobby Lounge for fine cocktails and entertainment, an English style Pub, and Lemon Garden 2 Go for a quick snack or sandwich.

Room Rates

Room Category	Single	Double
Executive	RM 450++	RM 480++
Executive Premier	RM 480++	RM 500++
Horizon Club Executive	RM 600++	RM 630++

Rates are quoted in the Malaysian Ringgit and subject to 10% service charge and 5% government tax. Rollaway bed in a room is available at RM 60++ per night. To convert to your currency, visit: www.oanda.com.

These special rates are available three days before and three days after the World Forum, subject to availability. All room reservations must be guaranteed by an advance deposit equivalent to the one night rate and must be made no later than April 14, 2007. After this date, the hotel will accept reservations if space is available. Reservations must be cancelled a minimum of seven days prior to arrival or a penalty equivalent to the one night rate will be charged. Should you fail to check-in on the scheduled date of arrival, a full length of stay per room charge will be levied. Short stays will be charged per the original booking.

Standard check-in time is 2:00 p.m. on the day of arrival. The hotel will make every effort to accommodate earlier arrivals. Early morning arrivals may wish to reserve for the day before. Standard check-out time is 12:00 noon on the day of departure. Late check-outs can be pre-arranged subject to availability and additional charges.

How to Reserve Your Room
You can reserve your room at Shangri-La using any of these methods:

1. Call Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur directly at (603) 2032-2388. Identify yourself to the reservation agent as a World Forum delegate and provide meeting code WORLD14057. (Note: You may need to dial additional prefix codes depending on the country you are calling from.)
2. Download a printable reservation form at http://mail.ccie.com/wf/pdf/ShangriLa_Reservation.pdf and fax it to Shangri-La at (603) 2070-8616. (Note: You may need to dial additional prefix codes depending on the country you are faxing from.)
3. Make your reservations online at the Shangri-La web site:
• Go to www.Shangri-La.com
• Go to reservations
• Make a booking
• Select "Malaysia" from the pull-down menu "Hotel Search Country/Region"
• Select "Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur" from the pull-down menu
  "Select Hotel"
• Select "Group Code" from the pull-down menu "Special Rate"
• Type in your assigned code: WORLD14057
4. Click here and enter your booking information.

Should you have questions or difficulties, send an e-mail to Ms. Mira Ahmad,
Shangri-La Reservation Manager, at Mira.Ahmad@Shangri-La.com.

Contact Information
You may wish to provide the following information to colleagues or family members who might want to contact you during the World Forum:

Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur

11 Jalan Sultan Ismail

50250 Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia

Phone: (603) 2032-2388

Fax: (603) 2070-1514

Transportation from the Airport
Ekspress Rail Link (ERL)
The KLIA ERL is an express train that exclusively serves the route between the airport and the main downtown rail station in Kuala Lumpur. The journey takes 28 minutes. A one-way ticket is RM35 (about US $10). When you are ready to leave the airport in Kuala Lumpur, just look for the signs that read "KLIA ekspres" which are posted everywhere. Once you reach the downtown station, taxicabs are available for hire for the short ride to the Shangri-La Hotel. To read more about the KLIA express train, visit www.kliaekspres.com.

The sign to watch for looks like this:

Airport Taxis
Taxi service from the airport to the Shangri-La Hotel is available 24-hours per day. The journey takes about 55 minutes, depending on traffic. Three levels of taxi service are available: Luxury Service at RM180 (about US $50), Premier Service at RM92.40 (about US $25) and Budget Service at RM67 (about US $20). You can also purchase round-trip service at slightly lower rates.
To find out more, visit: www.klia.com.my.

Part Five: About the World Forum

The underlying driving force of the World Forum is that every delegate has something of value to contribute. There is no division of experts and learners - everyone is an expert on their setting and everyone is a learner. As a result, every effort is made to encourage delegates to get to know each other, to share ideas, and to establish lasting professional friendships. We believe the world would be a better place for our children if people reached out across boundaries to understand and appreciate each other.

This section of the kit is designed to help you prepare for this participative experience and to be sure you take advantage of all the opportunities that are offered.

What's Included in Your Registration Fee
Your World Forum registration fee includes your full participation in all plenaries, workshops, and sessions; conference materials; a welcome reception on the evening of Tuesday, May 15; continental breakfasts on May 16, 17, and 18; morning refreshment breaks on May 16, 17, and 18; afternoon refreshment breaks on May 16 and 17; and luncheon on May 18.

Optional Activities

EC eTeaching: Extending Early Education with Technology
The World Forum Foundation has launched EC eTeaching to foster the effective use of technology to provide for the education of the world's early childhood workforce. It is well understood that education is the best hope for a promising future for the 1 billion children of the world living in poverty. Technology offers significant opportunities to extend this education worldwide.

The World Forum Foundation will host a gathering of those delivering promising practices in the use of distance education technology to educate early childhood professionals. In keeping with the operating philosophy of the World Forum Foundation, participants will be brought together to learn from each other, to support each other's work, and to identify practices that can be promoted to improve the education of early childhood practitioners worldwide.

The initial gathering of early childhood distance education pioneers took place on May 17, 2005 prior to the 2005 World Forum on Early Care and Education. At the 2007 World Forum this group will reconvene and be joined by additional leaders in the field. This all-day meeting will have several components. Participants will...

• Share their projects with each other through presentations and virtual tours;
• Identify promising practices, obstacles, and areas where more thinking and experimenting is needed to improve the delivery of training;
• Explore ways they can work together and continue to share techniques and strategies;
• Identify strategies for advancing the use of distance education approaches, particularly in areas of the world with limited resources;
• Share their stories in a presentation for the 750 delegates from 70+ nations at the World Forum.

Those interested in participating in this event should contact the EC eTeaching coordinator Chip Donohue at cdonohue@uwm.edu.

World Forum Networking Fund
A primary objective of the World Forum on Early Care and Education is to foster an ongoing exchange of ideas on a global basis. The World Forum Networking Project is designed to further this objective by supporting long-term projects developed by and involving World Forum participants from different countries.

The World Forum Networking Project was first announced at the World Forum 2000 in Singapore. A description of the projects funded from the World Forum 2002 in Auckland, New Zealand, and from the World Forum 2003 in Acapulco, Mexico are located on the links below.

The primary coordinator and sponsor of the World Forum Networking Project for 2005-2006 is Pademelon Press, Sydney, Australia.

We are delighted to have the Department of Community Services, New South Wales, Australia, as a major sponsor by awarding an annual grant of $2,000 (AUS). We would like to thank the Minister for Community Services in New South Wales, Reba Meagher, for this most generous support.

If you or your organization would like to become a sponsor of the World Forum Networking Project send an e-mail to Rodney Kenner at rodneyk@PademelonPress.com.au.

Day Tours and Pre- and Post-Conference Sightseeing
Asian Overland Services, a prominent tour operator in Malaysia, has assembled a variety of optional sightseeing day trips around Kuala Lumpur as well as pre- and post-tours to many parts of Malaysia. Go to www.AsianOverland.com.my to check out these great adventures. If you find something of interest, contact Asian Overland directly and they will make all the arrangements with you directly.

World Forum Language
The World Forum will be conducted in English. If you have special requirements, please notify us well in advance so we can attempt to accommodate you as best we can. In your conversations and contributions to sessions, keep in mind that English is not the first language for many delegates. Try to speak clearly with a minimum of jargon.

World Forum Attire
Recommended attire for the World Forum is business casual. For men, open-neck shirts and lightweight slacks are ideal. Women will find casual dresses, slacks, and tops ideal for day wear. For evening functions, a cocktail dress, perhaps with a shawl or wrap, would be most suitable. Most meeting rooms and restaurants are super-cooled and visitors may find they need a light jacket or sweater. For the Welcome Reception on Tuesday, May 15, delegates are invited to wear their traditional national attire.

Program Updates
The program for the World Forum is constantly being shaped based on feedback from attendees from previous World Forums as well as those who have already registered for World Forum 2007 in Malaysia.

No-Host Dining Program
We have selected a number of restaurants in Kuala Lumpur for small groups for lunch and dinner on Wednesday, May 16, and Thursday, May 17. To join a particular group, all you need to do is add your name to the list for the restaurant, day, and time of your choice. (Participants are responsible for paying for their own meals.) You'll find the no-host registration desk located in the foyer of Basement II. This was a very popular program during previous World Forums so we suggest you make your selections early. If your plans change after you sign up, be sure to remove your name from the list so someone else can participate.

Ambassadors Program
Delegates who have attended two or three previous World Forums have achieved the title of World Forum Ambassador and are asked to serve as Ambassadors for World Forum 2007. As an Ambassador you are asked to provide a warm welcome to delegates and to assist delegates who have questions or appear to need assistance in getting engaged in meeting others. At the Registration Desk, pick up your Ambassador ribbon, which will identify you to other delegates. Be sure to identify yourself as an Ambassador when you register.

World Forum Bookstore
The World Forum Bookstore, located in ECCI (Basement II), will be open on Tuesday, May 15, through noon Friday, May 18. You'll find an extensive collection of resources covering all aspects of early care and education from many publishers. This will be a marvelous opportunity for you to build your professional library. Delegates are asked to not bring items to sell in the bookstore unless advance arrangements have been made.

World Forum Lakeshore Art Project
At each previous World Forum, delegates were invited to participate in a group project sponsored by Lakeshore Learning Materials. Another group project is being planned for Malaysia. Please join us in ECCII (Basement II) at your convenience during the week. Times and other details will be provided on site.

Educational Book Exchange
One of the best parts of the World Forum is the opportunity it provides for sharing on a global basis. We would like to facilitate this process by asking you to bring with you your favorite young children's educational book. During on-site registration, you can add your book to those brought by others in the Reception Room for ECCI and ECCII (Basement II) where delegates can view them throughout the week. On Friday morning during breakfast, there will be a random drawing among those who participate to see which book you get to take home with you.

International Children's Art Exhibit
Malaysia will mark the fifth year of the World Forum International Children's Artwork Exhibit. Please contribute to the success of the exhibit by bringing one original copy of children's artwork from your country to donate to the exhibit. Artwork will become a permanent part of the exhibit and can not be returned.

International Dance
One of the really fun events of every World Forum is the International Dance held on Wednesday night. Music is contemporary from around the world. Dress is very casual or traditional (you decide). Come prepared to dance and have fun.

Music for the World Forum Dance is selected and pre-programmed in advance. If you have a song to recommend, e-mail the title and artist to info@WorldForumFoundation.org prior to May 1, 2007.

Networking
Be sure to remember to pack plenty of business cards and program brochures to share with the people you meet. We also ask that you bring along a family or work photo to show other delegates.

World Forum Pins
A special commemorative World Forum pin will be provided for each delegate. If you've attended any previous World Forums, you are invited to display the pins on your World Forum 2007 name badge. Remember to bring them with you.

On-Site Check-In
Please register and pick up your World Forum materials as early as is convenient at the Registration Center, located in the Basement II Foyer. The Registration Center will be open on Tuesday, May 15 from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Wednesday, May 16 from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon. To speed through the registration process, please present a copy of the notice which was emailed or faxed to you confirming your registration.

Companion Tickets
If you bring a companion with you who does not plan to attend the World Forum and you wish to have him or her join you at either the Welcome Reception on the evening of Tuesday, May 15, or the Closing Luncheon on Friday, May 18, you may purchase tickets at the World Forum Bookstore.

Special Needs
Should you have special dietary requirements or any other special needs, we will be most happy to make arrangements if you notify us well in advance. Please send an e-mail to info@WorldForumFoundation.org.

Substitution Policy
If you cannot attend and wish to send a substitute, call (800) 221-2864 or (425) 883-9394, send a fax to (425) 867-5217, or send an e-mail to info@WorldForumFoundation.org.

Program Changes/Cancellation
The World Forum Foundation reserves the right to make changes in programs and speakers, and to cancel programs if enrollment criteria are not met or when conditions beyond its control prevail. If the World Forum is not held for any reason, the liability of the World Forum Foundation is limited to registration fees only.

Cancellation Policy
If you cancel in writing more than one month prior to the World Forum, a 10 percent service fee will be charged. Delegates who do not attend or who cancel less than one month prior to the World Forum are responsible for the entire registration fee.

Photo Release Policy
By virtue of your attendance, you agree to usage of your likeness in still and video photography without compensation or notification.

Additional Information/Questions
If you have questions or need more information, call (800) 221-2864 or send an e-mail to info@WorldForumFoundation.org.

Part Six: Countdown the World Forum Checklist

Have you secured your...

• passport?
• visa?
• hotel reservation?

Have you completed your World Forum registration by...

• supplying your 100 word biographical statement to info@WorldForumFoundation.org?
• signing up for optional Center Tours?

Have you packed...

• a copy of your Registration Voucher/confirmation that was e-mailed or faxed to you?
• a children's book?
• children's artwork?
• business cards or brochures?
• family or work photo?
• pins from past World Forum?

See you in Kuala Lumpur!