Abstract: A process is provided for the preparation of a compound of the general formula (I): wherein R is H or C1-4 alkyl, which comprises treating a compound of the general formula (II): where R? is R or R8CO, R is as defined above, R8 is C1-8 alkyl or optionally substituted phenyl and R9 is optionally substituted C1-8 alkyl or optionally substituted aryl, with an amine R??NH2 wherein R?? is H or C1-4 alkyl. Also provided are the trans isomers of the compound (I) where R is CH3 (6-epi-malayamycin A) and H (6-epi-desmethylmalayamycin A), the cis and trans isomers of the compound (I) where R is C2-4alkyl and various intermediate compounds.