Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (Maceos) President Datuk M Gandhi was recently quoted as saying that business events were awakening globally with 25 percent of tourists travel specifically for these events. Mr Rainer Wemhiner, YBHG Datuk Ar James Wong, Dr Jes Tyng Yee Lim.
He also said that business people are looking for new conference and corporate meeting destinations. A moment of engagement as attendees look on during BE in Sabah at Sabah International Convention Centre.
These exciting trends put Sabah right on the map as the place to be for these events. Other than being at the centre of Asia, Sabah has so much to offer – from its fantastic natural resources, beautiful surroundings and unique environment just to name a few. MoU Signing between Sabah International Convention Centre as strategic partnerships.
These God-given wonders offer professionals and entrepreneurs an entirely new business-and pleasure experience. In addition, Sabah has a top class convention centre – the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) – that overlooks the ocean and beautiful islands. Left: Ms Nooch Homrossukhon - Director, Corporate Image & Communication Department, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and (right) PH.D Peter Lee - Managing Director General, Goyang Convention & Visitors Bureau (South Korea).
It is home to many high-quality hotels, and regional visitors can easily travel to the state thanks increasing direct flight connections from China, Hong Kong, and other
parts of the region. It is in fact already an attractive destination for business travellers. Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Jeffrey G. Kitingan, Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah together with distinguished VIPs and attendees at BE in Sabah, held at SICC on 27th - 28th February 2025.
But the business event market is huge. There is still so much to capitalise on. Business events, however, go beyond tourism. They offer significant economic benefits and investment opportunities. They can help drive Sabah’s economy forward. Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew Chin Jin taking a selfie with exhibitors at their booths during the event at SICC.
It is important for Sabah to ride the wave by positioning itself as a key destination for events like meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. The Sabah Government plays an important role in making Sabah the place to be for business events. Sarawak Business Events Association Courtesy Visit.
They are in the position to lend support in securing international congresses which frequently rotate locations. Attendees at BE in Sabah gathered at SICC.
Some key figures in government and private sector players are already seeing Sabah’s great advantage in becoming the preferred destination for business events, and their power in catalysing economic growth.
Here’s what they say:
