5o6 



well, and we may hope that firms that import and invent agricultural 

 tools may exhibit many new and useful appliances at future agri- 

 cultural shows. 



The introduction of papers and discussions at the various shows 

 is another improvement which may produce the most valuable re- 

 sults. These conferences in other parts of the world have been 

 remarkably successful, and are now quite an important feature in 

 all large meetings. This would necessitate the exhibitions being 

 kept open longer than usual and add to a certain extent to the ex- 

 penses but I think it would be well worth it. The question of ex- 

 pense is one of some importance, as it would undoubtedly vary in 

 the different localities in which the show was held. The Govern- 

 ment would probably be prepared to assist materially but local sub- 

 scriptions and gate money are very variable in different places. In 

 past shows in Singapore, for example, at times there would be a good 

 surplus devoted to the next year's show, at others a deficit but I 

 think we may fairly hope that many interested in the development 

 of agriculture would send regular subscriptions to the shows even 

 if they were personally unable to be present. In any case the Com- 

 mittees will want the support and interest of the whole planting 

 community and should they obtain that there is no reason why the 

 agricultural exhibitions of the whole Peninsula should not rank with 

 those of other Colonies. 



AGRICULTURAL SHOWS. 



Experience has proved that no one of the Settlements or Native 

 States is equal to maintaining an annual Agricultural Show or Ex- 

 hibition on sufficiently comprehensive lines to be of great educa- 

 tional value, and as healthy competition can only be induced by 

 holding those Shows at regular intervals, the time and place being 

 made known a considerable time in advance. My idea is that one 

 good Show might be held every year by combining forces and tak- 

 ing in rotation one of the five principal towns in the Colony and 

 Federated Malay States, viz. Singapore, Penang, Malacca, Taiping, 

 (or Ipoh) and Kwala Lumpor. There is however no reason why 

 other places in the Federated Malay States should not be included 

 later if the local authorities are desirous, and willing to guarantee 

 a sufficient sum towards the expenses. 



The first step towards the carrying out of this scheme is in my 

 opinion the formation of an Agricultural Committee consisting of 

 say three persons in each of the places in which it is proposed to 

 hold these shows. 



This Committee should be nominated by H. E. The Governor 

 and be a standing one. In the years in which the meeting is not 

 being held in the Settlement or State for which they are nominated 

 the members of this Committee will act as Agents in disseminating 

 information, prize lists, &c, and in collecting and forwarding ex- 

 hibits to the Settlement or State in which the Show is being held, 

 and if possible be present at the Show. The three in the Settle- 



