Sarawak’s chief minister, Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg, lauded the contributions the centre has brought to Sarawak, particularly in the international exhibitions and conventions sector.
In his address, he said BCCK has contributed over RM92 million (US$22 million) to the Sarawak economy since the convention centre was built a decade ago. Last year alone, the centre brought in RM8 billion in tourism receipts.
Abang shared: “The centre has hosted 104 international and regional conferences, including the 55th International Congress and Convention Association Congress 2016 which was held for the first time in Malaysia and the World Islamic Forum 2017, held for the first time in Sarawak. BCCK was also the venue for the 14th Asia-Pacific Physics Conference 2019, which was held for the second time in Malaysia since 1992.”
The chief minister also acknowledged BCCK’s efforts that support the state government’s initiatives to grow and strengthen Sarawak’s digital economy, as well as facilitate events that encourage advancement in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
BCCK’s chairman, Raziah Mahmud-Geneid, said in her speech that BCCK will not rest on its laurels, and instead, will “continue to be dedicated in competing for local and international events both big and small, and aim to make BCCK an iconic and preferred venue above all others in the region”.
“BCCK has seen great success over the past 10 years, and we look forward to another 10 years of success and growth in the international business events industry,” she concluded.
BCCK was the first purpose-built venue in Sarawak. Since its opening in 2009, it has hosted over 1,800 events and over 2.4 million delegates and visitors.
Last night, Borneo Convention Centre Kuching celebrated its 10th anniversary with a gala dinner that highlighted the centre’s decade-long achievements.