SINGAPORE -- Aug. 01, 2005 -- Microsoft Singapore announced today the appointment of Barney Lau as Managing Director. Barney Lau, 39, who was previously Director (Small & Mid-Market Solutions & Partners) in Microsoft Singapore, takes over the role on 1 August 2005.

Announcing the appointment, President of Microsoft Southeast Asia Saw Ken Wye, "Barney brings vision, perspective and a deep knowledge about the local IT industry. In the 15 years Microsoft has been in Singapore, we have been driven by our passion to enable people and businesses to realise their full potential with the use of technology; and Barney will lead the Singapore team in fulfilling this vision".

Commenting on his appointment, Lau said, "Singapore is a key market for Microsoft and I am thrilled to lead a team that is committed and passionate about contributing to the nation. My goal is to continue building on the success of Microsoft Singapore, and to empower our customers, partners and the community to harness technology."

Lau joined Microsoft Singapore in June 2003. Prior to this, he held many senior positions with Cisco Systems, Lucent Technologies, Hewlett Packard & Xyplex, Inc. Lau takes over from Andy Zupsic, who will move on to a new global role as General Manager (Worldwide Business Strategy) to Kevin Johnson, Group Vice President Worldwide Sales, Marketing and Services. Zupsic will be based in Microsoft Corporate in Redmond.

"The pro-business environment, high tech infrastructure, cosmopolitan culture and friendly people has truly made Singapore home for me and my family for the last two and a half years", said Zupsic. "As I move on to my global role, I will remain a "friend of Singapore" and will continue with the many collaborative efforts between Singapore and Microsoft".

"We are grateful to Zupsic for his leadership and vision to Microsoft Singapore resulting in many innovative programs including BackPack.NET, Healthcare.NET and our various citizenship programs. We wish him the best in his new role", said Saw Ken Wye, President, Microsoft South-East Asia.

About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

For more information, press only

Fatima Adam Communications Manager Microsoft Singapore Tel: 6882 8992 Email: fatimaa@microsoft.com