WCO organizes its first Leadership and Management Development Workshop in Asia-Pacific
Melaka, 17 – 28 January, 2011
The World Customs Organization (WCO) held its first Leadership and Management Development Workshop for the Asia-Pacific region at the WCO Regional Training Center located at the Royal Malaysian Customs Training Academy (AKMAL) in Melaka, Malaysia, from January 17 to 28, 2011.
The workshop, largely funded by the Customs Cooperation Fund of Japan, brought together 24 senior and middle-level managers from 22 different Customs administrations in the region. The workshop was lead by Mr. Daniel Perrier of the WCO Secretariat and by Mr. Rob Jansen, Dutch Tax & Customs administration. The event allowed participants to learn about modern strategic management skills, and gave them an opportunity to focus on their personal leadership skills.
The broad spectrum of represented Customs administrations also allowed for the exchange of personal and organizational experiences in effective management to achieve optimum results. Participants were able to discuss and find solutions to challenges they may face as Customs managers on a daily basis.
This event was organized as part of the WCO’s commitment to Customs management development, in the larger context of the comprehensive PICARD Programme. As part of the WCO Management Development Programme, such a workshop offers a combination of modules that expose participating managers to themes such as visioning, leadership, people management, coaching, delegation and motivation, communications, change management, the promotion of integrity in the workplace, providing feedback, negotiating, and decision-making.
Participants expressed great satisfaction with the workshop and underscored the importance of investing in the development of Customs management skills for their administration. Several administrations congratulated the WCO for implementing such an important initiative in the Asia Pacific region.
At the invitation of the Royal Malaysian Customs, workshop participants took part in the ceremonies organized to celebrate International Customs day. The theme for this year’s event “Knowledge: a catalyst for Customs excellence” was especially relevant given the objectives of the Leadership and Management Development Workshop.
The WCO Management Development Programme is gradually being implemented in all regions of the globe at the request of member Customs administrations.