145 
those fibres most suitable for culture ou a large scale in the 
tropics. 
Special attention will be given to the following viz : 
(1) . AGAVE FIBRE, the cultivation of which is spread- 
ing so largely and which is specially adapted for dry 
tropical countries. 
(2) . MANILLA HEMP, also a fibrous plant fit for cul- 
tivation on a large scale and which produces a pro- 
fitable crop in the moister districts of tropical 
countries. 
(3) . JUTE and JUTE SUBSTITUTES. Of importance 
in all tropical countries, seeing that a large part of 
the packing' material necessary for other produce is 
made therefrom. 
As the cultivation of Fibres 1 and 2 and the like can 
only be remunerative when carried on with efficient machin- 
ery for the treatment of fibre on a large scale and when 
suitable handmachines be available for the use of the small 
producer, special attention will be paid to the testing of 
machines sent in for exhibition, both as regards the ex- 
traction and treatment of the fibre. 
In addition to the above named, other fibres may be 
dealt with more or less fully according to the interest shown 
at the Congress. 
A detailed programme will shortly be published deal- 
ing with the project in all its particulars and enumerating 
the prizes to be awarded. 
This preliminary notice will serve to make known to all 
those who are interested in the cultivation of fibres in 
tropical countries, the opportunity shortly to be offered of 
exchanging ideas on the subject, and will-give timely notice 
to manufacturers of machinery of the opportunity to be 
given for displaying the merits of their respective special- 
ities. 
The Nederlandsch-Indisch Landbouw-Syndicaat, 
A. Paets Tot Gansoyen, I). J. R. Putman Cramer, 
President . S ecretary. 
MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING OF THE 
PLANTERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MALAYA 
Held at the Masonic Hall, Kuala Lumpur, at 11 a.m. 
on February 28th, 1909 . 
Present. For the Perak Planters’ Association: Mr. H. 
E, Darby, Mr. Alma Baker and Mr. W, Duncan, For the 
