Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre aims higher in 2024

February 19, 2024

The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (the Centre) is poised for a remarkable year in 2024, having already secured 65 per cent of its revenue target for the year.

The Centre has kickstarted 2024 with confirmed bookings for 37 conventions and 50 exhibitions and these numbers are expected to increase as more national conferences and exhibitions, short lead meetings and events are confirmed during the year.

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre looks forward to a busy calendar of events this year

Events that have already been confirmed for 2024 include the Ancaro Imparo Dental Conference; International Café & Beverage Show; 21st AILA World Congress; European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology meets Asia; International Surgical Week; Aesthetic Medicine & Surgery Conference & Exhibition; and International Union of Architects Forum.

In 2023, the Centre hosted 1,724 events which was the highest number since 2014. These events attracted more than 1.3 million delegates to the Centre and contributed to an estimated RM656 million in economic impact for Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia.

John Burke, general manager of The Centre, stated: “Based on industry trends and the bookings the Centre has already secured, 2024 will be a strong year for international conventions and exhibitions. Our focus for the year and moving forward, is not so much about expanding the number of events we host, but on maximising the opportunities events bring, whether in trade or economic impact.”

Earlier this month, the Centre was honoured EarthCheck Gold certification. EarthCheck Certified is the world’s leading science-based environmental certification and benchmarking programme for the business events and tourism industries. As part of a comprehensive five-year process, the Centre was independently audited and benchmarked by experts on its performance in many areas including energy, water, waste, paper and cleaning.

According to EarthCheck, the Centre is the first business events and tourism venue in Malaysia to achieve gold-level certification.

Burke added: “Our sustainability transformation and commitment to low or zero carbon events is a major part of our strategy both this year and into the future. Our investments in sustainability, which include everything from waste management, energy efficiency, sustainable sourcing and more, have made the Centre a rock-solid choice for clients and organisers looking to minimise the environmental impact of their events and are already paying dividends in attracting new corporate and government events. Our dedicated sustainability working team and manager will continue to drive our sustainability progress in the coming year.”

Ascott opens new Citadines outpost in Singapore

By TTGmice

February 19, 2024

The Ascott Limited (Ascott) has opened Citadines Science Park Singapore, the group’s eighth Citadines property in Singapore.

The property – which counts corporate travellers working in the surrounding area as one of its key markets – offers 250 rooms located on levels 10 to 15.

Onsite amenities include a resident’s lounge, shared working space, meeting rooms, launderette, outdoor barbecue, fitness corner, F&B outlet, and a 25m-long infinity pool.

Guests staying at the property can benefit from Citadines’ signature programmes, such as curated programmes to jumpstart city living with key places to explore within the neighbourhood. For instance, the property provides recommendations on what to see and do in the area, such as walking, cycling, and running trails in Kent Ridge and Rail Corridor Central. Yoga practices, networking sessions, and coffee-related workshops, are also organised regularly.

As part of the energy conservation initiatives, energy-saving smart occupancy sensors have been installed in all guestrooms. Citadines Science Park Singapore has also achieved the BCA Green Mark Platinum SLE certification, highlighting its commitment to sustainability.

In support of the sustainable transport vision in the Singapore Green Plan 2030, several low carbon mobility options include 466 bicycle lots complemented with end-of-trip shower and locker facilities, as well as 14 electric vehicle charging lots.

Mary O’Kane chairs BESydney Board

By TTGmice

February 19, 2024

Australian scientist and engineer Mary O’Kane has commenced her role as independent director and chair of the Board of strategic event bidding organisation Business Events Sydney (BESydney).

Her term will last for three years.

This is the second time she is sitting on the BESydney Board, previously serving a nine-year term as an independent director during her time as the inaugural NSW chief scientist & engineer (2008-2018).

With a professional and academic career spanning working as a computer engineer undertaking pioneering research in artificial intelligence to the University of Adelaide vice-chancellor and serving as member or chair on many government and private sector boards and committees, O’Kane brings an extraordinary breadth and depth of experience in the innovation, research, higher education, energy, ICT, public policy and development spheres to the BESydney Board.

O’Kane is currently chair of the NSW Independent Planning Commission and continues to advise universities and governments in Australia and around the globe, having been a reviewer for European innovation agencies including the FFG, the Austrian Research Promotion Agency and VINNOVA, the Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems.

She joins the Board after completing her most recent of several reviews for the Australian government, and the Australian Universities Accord, which was tasked with making recommendations to deliver a higher education system that meets the current and future needs of the nation.

Stijn Oyen takes on MD role at Design Hotels

By TTGmice

February 17, 2024

Design Hotels has appointed Stijn Oyen as managing director. He will define the future strategy and growth of the Design Hotels’ portfolio in his new role.

Oyen has a strong background in hotel operations, having spent the last 20 years with Marriott International and Starwood Hotels and Resorts.

He was most recently complex general manager for three properties in Mallorca – The St Regis Mardavall Resort; Castillo Son Vida, a Luxury Collection Hotel; and Sheraton Mallorca Arabella Golf Hotel.

PATA names Soon-Hwa Wong as Greater China ambassador

By TTGmice

February 16, 2024

PATA has appointed Soon-Hwa Wong as its ambassador for Greater China for a two-year term.

In this role, Wong will serve as a representative of PATA in the region. He will work towards achieving the goals of PATA, facilitating collaboration among stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry, and enhancing the presence of PATA in Greater China.

As the CEO of AsiaChina, he leverages his extensive network of high-level contacts and deep understanding of the two-way tourism and trade flows between Asia-Pacific and China to provide effective and tailored solutions for clients and partners across various sectors, such as destination management, aviation, car rental, urban mobility, travel agency, and startup.

With over 40 years of experience in travel and tourism, Wong’s various association leadership roles include being the immediate past chair of PATA. He is the current chair of PATA Singapore Chapter, and the honorary chairman of the Tourism Management Institute of Singapore.

Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa welcomes new GM

By TTGmice

February 16, 2024

Anna Rohm has been appointed as the new general manager of Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa.

With a seasoned international career in hotel management spanning Europe, the Middle East and Asia, she brings a wealth of experience and leadership to her new role where she will oversee day-to-day hotel operations and drive the resort’s overall business strategy.

Before joining Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa, Rohm served as hotel manager at one of the flagship hotels of the Banyan Tree Hotel Group in Thailand.

PCEC teams up with Carbon Positive Australia

By TTGmice

February 16, 2024

PCEC-Carbon-Positive-Australia_640 — This collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to environmental restoration, carbon offsetting, and community well-being

The Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC) has partnered with Carbon Positive Australia (CPA), a non-profit organisation dedicated to raising funds for tree-planting initiatives.

By engaging CPA, PCEC aims to empower its clients with a conscientious and carbon-positive approach to their events, where they will have the opportunity to Donate a Tree or contribute funds towards tree planting.

This collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to environmental restoration, carbon offsetting, and community well-being

The funds will contribute to large-scale tree-planting projects, fostering environmental restoration and biodiversity. Moreover, these initiatives play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, while aligning with clients’ desire to mitigate the environmental impact of their events.

Beyond environmental benefits, this partnership will also bring about community development, as tree-planting initiatives involve local communities, create jobs, and foster a sense of shared responsibility.

This collaborative effort reflects PCEC’s dedication to sustainable practices, and offers its clients a meaningful avenue to make a positive impact on the planet while hosting memorable and environmentally responsible events.

Since 2001, CPA Australia has planted over 7.4 million trees, restored 5,400 hectares and captured 675,000 tonnes of carbon and counting.

Talent investment matters

By Gerardine Donough-Tan

February 15, 2024

How are tertiary institutions attracting students to choose degrees in MICE or events management over other subjects?
Students are attracted to educational programmes related to business events because such degrees prepare them for a career not only in a specific industry, but also in other related industries.

For instance, at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), we equip our students with knowledge and skills that are applicable both in the business events, hospitality and tourism industry,as well as other disciplines.

In addition to jobs in meetings and events planning, SHTM graduates can apply the knowledge gained to other industries such as luxury goods and even government departments staging various public events. Some graduates also become entrepreneurs; e.g., event planners.

How do universities equip graduates with both theoretical and practical skills?
Most hospitality and events management degrees in Asia include a practicum or internship component in their programmes. Universities like ours continue to update the curricula to reflect changes in the industry. We work in close collaboration with the industry and consult relevant stakeholders, including employers, to reflect industry needs and trends in our curriculum.

We are proud to support the industry and develop high-calibre talents by offering degrees at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

At the undergraduate level, students apply what they have learned in the classroom to a real-life work environment by organising international conferences and events. They also undertake internships in tourism/events organisations in Hong Kong and abroad to gain hands-on experience.

Back on campus, the SHTM Event Society – founded by our students – provides an excellent opportunity for students to network with industry leaders and build networks for their career development.

At the postgraduate level, we are conscious of students’ desire to progress their studies and acquire industry experience at the same time, hence there is a “management practice” option.

Gen Z has different goals, aspirations and lifestyles from older age groups. In presenting business events as exciting and glamorous, are academia and employers perhaps ‘overselling’ this proposition?
The young generation today is different from older generations in many ways. For example, they consider work life balance more important than career advancement. The opportunity to express themselves in the workplace is also of high priority, and the way of communication has also changed. It is common for young people to engage in business communication via social media instead of a conventional medium like e-mail.

Older generations need to adjust their management style to accommodate the different aspirations and lifestyles of younger generations. In academia, we are doing our best to mitigate and narrow the potential gap between the aspirations of young people and the reality of the industry.

How can educational institutions help mid-career industry workers upgrade or reskill to better suit market needs?
To continue education, SHTM offers an Executive Development Programme. Offered as short courses, the programme meets regional and international demands, and helps mid-career professionals to upgrade their knowledge and skills.

Courses on the Use of Big Data Analytics, Metaverse, and the like help mid-career industry workers adapt to the changing needs of the industry while facilitating their professional development.

We also offer free online courses on the edX online learning platform which has attracted more than 200,000 users worldwide.

GainingEdge on the hunt for a new CEO

By TTGmice

February 15, 2024

CEO of GainingEdge, Jon Sivertson, will be concluding his service at the global meetings industry consulting company at the end of February 2024.

The company’s senior partner, Mike Williams, is currently serving as acting CEO until a new permanent one can be appointed.

An active search for a new CEO is underway and anyone seeking to express interest in the position should contact GainingEdge Partner Bruce Redor.

On the right track

By Rohit Kaul

February 14, 2024

As the new managing director of FCM Travel in India, what are the things on your to-do list?
There are a few key areas. Firstly, the widespread adoption of technology is paramount. In both personal and business travel, individuals have embraced technology wholeheartedly. We have a range of tech platforms powered by artificial intelligence AI that we aim to introduce to customers to enhance adoption.

Secondly, FCM has established an outstanding record in customer service with consistently high user experiences over the years. Our focus will remain in this area, and further elevate the user experience by leveraging the latest technology solutions.

We are also keen on developing a suite of non-air products, including hotels, railway car solutions, visa management, and sustainability. The goal is to position ourselves as a one-stop shop, offering a comprehensive suite of products to provide added value to our customers. We aspire to be travel partners, assisting our customers in growing their businesses.

Another of my priorities is our employees. As a certified ‘Great Place to Work,’ I will continue investing in our people because, ultimately, it is their commitment that will set us apart from others.

Could you paint a picture of India’s business travel performance last year?
Indian business travel rebounded last year, reaching pre-pandemic levels as demand surged. The primary driving force behind this growth was the eagerness of companies to meet customer needs, fulfil supply requirements, and expedite projects, leading to a substantial increase in travel activity.

Additionally, there was a notable uptick in demand for events and incentive business, with the exhibition sector making a robust comeback. Key contributors to the heightened demand for business travel in India included FMCG, insurance, pharmaceuticals, and banking companies.

Despite domestic air capacity exceeding pre-pandemic levels in terms of seat availability, international travel capacity remains a concern. Encouragingly, the gap between demand and supply is narrowing, and there are positive indications that international air capacity from India will return to pre-pandemic levels this year.

Obtaining visas continues to be a challenge, particularly for longhaul destinations such as the US and the Schengen region, with significant waiting periods. However, shorthaul destinations like Southeast Asia and the Middle East, along with domestic markets, benefitted as corporate entities explored alternative options.

Which outbound destinations are gaining popularity for incentive travel from India?
Vietnam is experiencing a significant surge in demand, with cities like Ho Chi Minh, Danang, and Hanoi becoming increasingly popular among Indian corporate travellers. Another destination generating substantial interest is Siem Reap in Cambodia. When it comes to longhaul markets, Japan and Turkey are steadily climbing the charts in terms of incentive travel popularity.

Do you see the emergence of India as an inbound MICE destination in the future?
There is significant activity unfolding in India with the emergence of new and noteworthy MICE venues such as the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre in New Delhi and The Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. These venues are established in cities encompassing top-notch hotels, dining options, and various tourist attractions.

I think that Mumbai and Delhi, being historically attractive to conferences and business travellers, position these convention centres favourably to draw substantial MICE attendance in 2024 and beyond.

Recently, India has also been making positive headlines, with its growing economy and business destination credentials. Across industries, from IT to pharmaceuticals, the growth is truly exhilarating. This growth signifies that industry-specific conferences, which were previously rare in India or often shifted to other parts of Asia, are now inclined to take place in the country.

Meanwhile, India’s rich culture and history have consistently drawn inbound travellers, and in the next two years, I think that India will not only be on par with its competitors in terms of infrastructure, but will also be a compelling incentive destination.

How do you perceive the evolution of domestic MICE demand in India compared to outbound MICE in 2024? Which specific MICE verticals do you anticipate gaining more traction in the coming year?
I anticipate a robust demand for both domestic and international destinations. Previously, most of the MICE movement used to be outbound, but these days, there is a lot more demand for inbound.

The MICE infrastructure in India has seen remarkable improvement, thanks to the establishment of new standalone venues and hotels equipped with state-of-the-art conferencing facilities.

The Indian aviation sector is also experiencing a boom, evident in the record aircraft orders from airlines. These factors collectively contribute to the escalating demand for domestic business events.

This demand isn’t limited to specific verticals. With the return to normalcy, whether it’s incentives, meetings, or participation in exhibitions, the demand is expected to be widespread.