Asia/Singapore Sunday, 21st December 2025
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Novotel Sydney Cabramatta confirms key hires before November opening

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Novotel Sydney Cabramatta has made two key leadership appointments ahead of its planned opening in November: Sam Fakih as general manager, and Anthony Hoang as director of sales.

With more than 23 years of experience in the hospitality sector, Fakih previously held senior roles at IHG-branded properties, most recently serving as cluster general manager for Crowne Plaza Burwood and Holiday Inn & Suites Parramatta Marsden Street. His knowledge of the local market will support the hotel’s development in Western Sydney.

From left: Sam Fakih and Anthony Hoang

Hoang brings over 25 years of experience in hospitality sales and marketing, having held senior positions at InterContinental Sun Peninsula Resort, Holiday Inn Parramatta, Stamford Plaza Brisbane, Eastin Grand Hotel, Hanoi Hotel, Paddington Hotel Halong Bayview and Merperle Hotels & Resort. His background in revenue generation and partnership development will support the hotel as it prepares to open.

Malaysia Business Events Week speakers highlight changes in the business events industry

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Differing pace of technology adoption, late registration patterns, and growing interest in non-capital destinations for business events are among the observations shared by industry leaders on the panel session, The next era of business events in Asia Pacific, presented during the Malaysia Business Events Week this week in Kuala Lumpur.

Florence Chua, managing director Asia-Pacific at Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), spotlighted the growing influence of AI technology.

PCMA’s Florence Chua (left) and ICCA’s Waikin Wong flank session moderator, Malaysian Association of Hotels’ Isaac Mohan Raj

“AI is here to stay. We want professionals to get on the bandwagon,” she stated, adding that the business events sector is still in the early stages of uncovering its full potential.

“I always tell our members – if no one is using it, where will the use cases come from? We need to keep sharing what’s working and what’s not, so we can support each other on this journey of exploration,” she said.

Recognising the need for industry-wide training on AI application, PCMA launched the SPARK Accelerator in partnership with Gevme, an omni-channel event management platform, two years ago. The initiative offers structured learning experiences that include AI workshops, practical use case development, and implementation strategies designed to enhance organisational performance through generative AI.

Chua also highlighted the importance of managing digital adoption across a multigenerational workforce. While younger professionals tend to embrace new technologies readily, more experienced colleagues may need additional time and training to adapt.

“A willingness to learn from one another is key,” she said, pointing to the need for inclusive strategies that foster collaboration and continuous learning.

On the events logistics front, Waikin Wong, senior regional director Asia Pacific at ICCA, said shifting registration patterns are straining logistics, catering, delegate engagement, and on-site coordination.

She observed that lead times for attendee registration have significantly shortened – often to just one or two weeks prior to an event – due to a combination of factors, including geopolitical or economic uncertainty, internal leadership and strategic changes within organisations, and tighter budget controls that require organisations to hold off on finalising travel and participation decisions until the last possible moment.

On a more positive note, Wong shared observations of increasing interest among business event organisers to consider non-capital destinations for their activities. This trend is driven by improvements in air connectivity, the availability of unique experiences, and strong support from convention bureaus.

Gold Coast refines Asia-Pacific strategy for future growth

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Campbell:

Experience Gold Coast, the organisation tasked with driving growth and opportunities for tourism, events, education, and arts and culture, has modified its strategy for the Asia-Pacific business events market, moving from a broad approach to a more focused and targeted engagement model for its signature annual event, This Is Gold Coast (TIGC).

Happening from August 4 to 7, this year’s TIGC brings together over 50 business event organisers from Australia and New Zealand, but buyers from Asia-Pacific are notably absent.

Campbell: tailored familiarisation trips for Asia-Pacific buyers yield more successful outcomes

Brooke Campbell, head of business events for Experience Gold Coast, told TTGmice that it was a deliberate move, with the intention to provide the market with destination showcase through familiarisation trips.

Campbell said that tailored familiarisation trips for Asia-Pacific buyers yielded more successful outcomes.

For instance, Experience Gold Coast is collaborating with Business Events Australia for this December’s Australia Next event to host pre- and post-familiarisation trips specifically for the China and Indonesia markets.

The organisation is also in the process of developing a cricket-focused familiarisation trip to appeal directly to a group of buyers from India.

Earlier in June 2025, a roadshow in China and Taiwan – Experience Gold Coast’s first in seven years – secured 15 promising leads with a small delegation of just three suppliers – Experience Gold Coast, Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCEC), and Village Roadshow Theme Parks.

Despite the temporary absence of Asia-Pacific buyers at TIGC, Campbell stressed that the region remains a strong priority.

“We do have a number of Asia-Pacific buyers who have shown interest in TIGC, and we might bring them back next year,” she added.

Beyond the new strategy, Experience Gold Coast has also changed its criteria for funding support, with financing now available for groups of at least 150 people – down from 250 – who stay for a minimum of three nights. In the last financial year, the organisation secured 80 forward events all the way to 2032.

With the 2032 Olympics looming, Experience Gold Coast is also working with the GCEC to attract sporting conferences and related associations.

Natalie Donoghue, GCEC’s business development manager, told TTGmice that the venue have had back-to-back events since mid-February, all the way to mid-December.

“For 2026, we’re almost fully booked for the same period,” added Donoghue.

While GCEC’s international events currently sits at around five per cent, Donoghue expects it to “grow over the next few years” as GCEC actively pursues several new international bids.

“The Gold Coast is a very attractive destination for corporate events and association conferences. People who approach us already know what GCEC and the Gold Coast can offer,” she said.

Donoghue added that the city’s new infrastructure – from new hotels such as the Mondrian Gold Coast to the construction of the light rail – will be major draws moving forward.

The Gold Coast and Australia are also widely recognised as “safe destinations” for business events – an advantageous perception that has led to a number of last-minute bookings, such as a 2,000-pax incentive programme from India that switched from Dubai to the Gold Coast due to instability in the Middle East, Campbell shared.

Singapore launches audiovisual certification programme, heralding higher event standards

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From left: Unearthed Productions’ Adam Piperdy; SACEOS’ Richard Ireland; and NTUC LHUB’s Tay Ee Learn; photo by Unearthed Productions

Audiovisual (AV) standards in Singapore’s business events industry will soon be raised through a new certification programme launched by Unearthed Productions (UP), NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB), and Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS).

The partnership agreement was signed at CatchUP 2025, the annual industry gathering hosted by UP, at Warehouse on River Promenade on July 31.

From left: Unearthed Productions’ Adam Piperdy; SACEOS’ Richard Ireland; and NTUC LHUB’s Tay Ee Learn; photo by Unearthed Productions

Developed by UP’s trainers and delivered by NTUC LHUB, WSQ Fundamentals of Audio, Visual, and Lighting Systems also has endorsement from SACEOS and Singapore Tourism Board. Eligible trainees may obtain grants under Singapore’s Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ) framework.

“The course uses the latest and actual industry equipment, so participants get the hands-on skills that event organisers need,” said Adam Piperdy, founder and chief experience officer of UP.

Targeted at AV technicians, business events professionals, and hospitality practitioners, the 16-hour Fundamental course melds theory and practical skills such as AV system setup, troubleshooting, and safe operation.

Graduates are then eligible to take the 16-hour Advanced course.

“Upon successful completion of both courses, graduates will be Certified Audio Visual Specialist, giving them a recognised professional accreditation, akin to the Certified Meeting Professional designation for meeting professionals,” Piperdy explained.

As UP works closely with industry players, Piperdy said post-course opportunities may include internships and project-based roles at a variety of events in Singapore.

Also announced at CatchUP was a partnership with Tuan Sing Holdings for UP to be its audio, visual and lighting partner for events hosted at Warehouse on River Promenade.

CatchUP 2025 also saw the official launch of UPGroup Asia, the regional brand under UP, and a new business events venue search platform of UP-managed venues to help clients discover unique event spaces and elevate their audio, visual and lighting experiences across the region.

IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific returns next month

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Last year’s edition of IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific

IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific is set to present an expanded educational programme from September 23 to 25, 2025, with a focus on well-being, sustainability, and purposeful engagement.

The three-day conference, held at Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre, will feature industry expert-led sessions aligned with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau’s (TCEB) Meet Well campaign, which promotes mindful and rejuvenating travel.

Last year’s edition of IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific

Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), will deliver a keynote on the future of travel on September 23. Following this, the panel discussion Pulse Check: Well-Being in Events and Business Travel will explore mindfulness in event design and travel programmes.

On September 24, there will be two leadership sessions. The Global MICE Collaborative will present INSIDE MICE: Trends and Data for Strategic Decision-Making, providing a data-driven global industry perspective; while ICCA will lead Power of Collaboration: Building Stronger Connections for a Resilient Future, highlighting the role of cross-sector alliances in fostering innovation and sustainable growth.

Highlights on September 25 include Beyond Nutrition: Future Food, Personal Wellness & Sustainable Hospitality Ecosystems presented by Tastebud Lab; and a networking session – in collaboration with Global Business Travel Association – which will connect corporate travel buyers and suppliers.

PATA will also host a youth-focused session on September 25 titled Empowering the Next Generation of Tourism Leaders to help students develop essential skills for the tourism sector.

This year’s IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific will also see a new BizMatch and Meet segment, a series of five-minute meetings designed to facilitate quick, focused business connections between buyers and exhibitors.

To showcase local experiences, a pre-event food tour hosted by Lost Plate will also take 20 confirmed buyers and media members on an immersive culinary journey through Bangkok. Additionally, TCEB will host a mindful escape to Bang Kachao, featuring a scent-making workshop and a guided conservation tour.

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre captures six major conferences

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Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (pictured) wins six new bids for events taking place in 2026 and 2027

Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre has secured six major international conferences that are set to attract over 6,150 delegates in 2026 and 2027 and inject an estimated RM77.5 million (US$18.3 million) into the country’s economy.

The successful bids highlight the venue’s strategic focus on high-impact sectors, aligning with Malaysia’s national priorities under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030.

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (pictured) wins six new bids for events taking place in 2026 and 2027

The conferences, won through competitive bidding in 1H2025, will bring together global experts and thought leaders. They are expected to generate significant visitor spending across accommodation, dining, transportation, and tourism.

Among the notable events secured are the Global Health Security Conference 2026, Energy Tech Summit Asia 2026, and 85th FIP World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences 2027.

“Winning these bids is a resounding vote of confidence in Malaysia’s capacity, connectivity, and collaborative spirit,” said John Burke, general manager of Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

“Beyond the direct economic contribution, these events will spark new partnerships, accelerate talent development, and showcase our nation’s commitment to driving solutions for critical global challenges.”

When fashion and hospitality converge

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MCM Autumn/Winter 2025 For Cyber-Galactic Nomads & Their Pet Companions – MCM Weekend Pop-up Showcase

Event brief
German luxury fashion house MCM approached Amara Sanctuary Sentosa with a creative brief for an event to deliver a multi-sensory, immersive brand experience that extended beyond traditional fashion presentations.

The market activation followed the global debut of MCM’s collection with Pet Therapy at Milan Design Week 2025 in April. The collection captures a vision of modern luxury, one that embraces comfort, creativity, and the emotional bond between people and their pets.

The event called for a joint effort by MCM, its PR agency, Directions Group Inc, and Amara Sanctuary Sentosa to deliver brand consistency and seamless execution across all guest-facing experiences beyond the main showcase days.

Anthony Lim, general manager of Amara Sanctuary Sentosa, told TTGmice that his property is one of Singapore’s first luxury pet-friendly resorts, and it offers “a setting where thoughtful design and pet-inclusive hospitality come together, making it an ideal space to showcase MCM’s vision of contemporary living with pets”.

Lim added: “Our role was to co-create a series of curated experiences that brought the MCM vision to life in a meaningful and engaging way across multiple guest touch points, including an immersive two-day pop-up event at the Glass Pavilion, a lifestyle villa adorned with MCM’s exclusive pet and home accessories, and a specially curated MCM-themed afternoon tea experience.

“Each element was designed to reflect the evolving intersection of fashion, hospitality, and pet-friendly living.”

The hotel was given 10 weeks to bring ideas to life.

Event highlights
The activation in Singapore was set for July 2025, and was MCM’s first stop in the Asia tour, preceding launches in Malaysia and Hong Kong.

There were three components of the event, with the first being the MCM Weekend Pop-up Showcase at the Glass Pavilion. This took place across three days – July 11 for the media, and on July 12 and 13 for members of the public.

During the MCM Weekend Pop-up Showcase, guests explored MCM’s Autumn/Winter 2025 collection in a tranquil resort setting. The showcase comprised the MCM x RawRow collaboration, an interactive fragrance discovery bar, and a display of pet accessories.

“The experience was brought to life with joyful, pet-centric moments like pet photography sessions, pet-friendly frozen yoghurt, and symbolic adoptions of MCM Animal Articles, with 100 per cent of proceeds donated to Voices for Animals (VFA) Singapore,” recalled Lim.

Lim said the hotel’s front office, F&B, and security teams worked closely on logistics to ensure efficient crowd control of guests and their pets.

“Safety and cleanliness standards were upheld throughout the event, with a dedicated bin for pet waste, as well as additional poop bags, pee pads, and pet diapers thoughtfully provided. These measures ensured a clean, stress-free, and pet-friendly environment for all attendees, allowing guests and their furkids to fully enjoy the experience with comfort and ease,” he detailed.

The three-day event welcomed over 60 guests, including key fashion and lifestyle journalists, editors, and influencers on July 11, and another 350 hoomans and 80 furkids on the two public days. More than S$16,000 (US$12,330) was also successfully raised for VFA Singapore.

The other two components of the MCM activation were longer-lasting.

The MCM Experience Two-bedroom Villa, available for stays from July 12 to August 10, 2025, combines luxury accommodation with fashion and lifestyle. The villa is thoughtfully styled to feature the brand’s signature home and pet accessories, including designer poufs, pet bowls, limited-edition lifestyle pieces, and the complete MCM Parfum collection.

Guests are welcomed in style with a ride to their villa on an MCM-branded buggy. They also get to take home a special MCM gift set comprising fragrances and an MCM shopping voucher.

The luxury hotel also crafted the MCM x Amara Sanctuary Afternoon Tea, a limited-time experience that will end its run on August 10, 2025. Available only on weekends at the Sanctuary Tearoom, the experience is inspired by MCM’s latest fragrance collection.

“The hotel’s culinary team conducted extensive research and development to translate fragrance profiles into edible and flavourful afternoon tea. Sanctuary Tearoom team members were also trained to share the scent behind each item,” said Lim.

Challenges
Reflecting on the project creation and delivery, Lim said one of the challenges for his team was the process of translating MCM’s fragrance profiles into edible concepts for the afternoon tea menu.

“The brief was to reflect perfume notes from MCM’s latest fragrance collection, which meant our culinary team had to interpret abstract scent elements – such as citrus woods, fruity florals, and musks – into flavour pairings that were both palatable and elevated.

“To do this, each fragrance was broken down into its top, mid, and base notes, which were then carefully mapped to complementary ingredients. For example, pineapple and basil were selected to represent fresh, uplifting, citrusy top notes, while truffle and sesame reflected the deeper, more sensual base accords.

“The process involved extensive research and development, tasting sessions, and collaborative discussions between the MCM and our culinary teams. The final result was a cohesive and immersive dining journey that not only echoed the spirit of each scent but also reflected MCM’s signature brand colours and aesthetic, blending the worlds of perfume, flavour, and fashion in a sophisticated, multi-sensory experience.”

Amara Sanctuary Sentosa’s other challenge was to transform one of its two-bedroom villas into an experiential lifestyle space that would reflect the MCM’s Autumn/Winter 2025 collection – blending elements of fashion, fragrance, homeware, and pet-friendly luxury.

“The challenge lay in balancing aesthetics, functionality, and brand storytelling, all while maintaining the comfort and flow of a true guest stay,” reflected Lim.

To bring this to life, both MCM and hotel teams worked closely to plan the layout, styling, and guest touch points. Iconic MCM pieces such as the one-metre tall Bunny, Bear, and Pup, signature luggage, pet poufs, trays, and fragrances were placed with precision to create a cohesive and visually striking environment.

Furthermore, in the lead up to the launch of the MCM Experience Villa package, the hotel had two hours to complete styling and photoshoot of the room. The exercise required precise coordination between both teams, overnight preparation, and real-time responsiveness to ensure the villa was perfectly staged and captured without disrupting resort operations.

Lim noted that logistics and timing were critical in ensuring operational readiness for arriving VIPs, members of the media and public guests on event days across July 11 to 13.

He said his team had to uphold service standards while safeguarding the privacy of in-house guests.

Event MCM Autumn/Winter 2025 For Cyber-Galactic Nomads & Their Pet Companions – MCM Weekend Pop-up Showcase
Dates July 11 (media preview); July 12 to 13 (public event)
Organisers MCM, Directions Group Inc, and Amara Sanctuary Sentosa
Venue Glass Pavilion, Amara Sanctuary Sentosa, Singapore
Number of attendees 60 pax on July 11; 350 pax and 80 pets on July 12 and 13

Top incentive ideas, part 3

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19. Cruising in style
This 78-foot, double-decker event yacht redefines luxury on the water, offering over 278m2 of floating entertainment space in Victoria Harbour.

Beyond standard harbour cruises, additional itineraries can include a Southern Island cruise by Repulse Bay or a seafood dinner at Lamma Island. To enhance the experience, live bands and F&B options are available, as are additional activities like yoga workshops, perfume workshops, and wine tastings.

The maximum cruising capacity is 50 guests. A standard harbour cruise package begins at HK$48,000 (US$6,115) + 10 per cent service charge for 50 guests, covering free-flow non-alcoholic beverages and essential AV equipment (screens, TV, microphone, projector, speakers).


20. Natural wonders
Explore the rock formations, moss-covered boulders, and moist crevices sculpted by centuries of water and air that lend a stunning, almost mystical quality to the Tutulari Inararo Avatar Gorge in Pampanga, Philippines. This paradise within the ancestral domain of the indigenous Aeta community was discovered only several years ago.

Then hike off to Puning Hot Spring, formed by the eruption of Mount Pinatubo, to soak in its hot and cold pools and get buried in a hot sand before being covered in mud, for a relaxing and cleansing ablution. This tour is organised by Pinatubo Mountainero, for up to 12 pax per group.


21. Executive escapes
Located near Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, India, Aamaghati Wildlife Resort offers accommodation perfect for exploring local wildlife, including tigers. Jungle safaris are available upon request, accompanied by expert guides. On clear nights, stargazing can also be enjoyed.

Suitable for groups of up to 250 people, evenings can feature an outdoor high tea under a Mango tree, complete with displays of local arts and crafts like pottery and bangle making, alongside musical performances. A unique touch: each room number begins with ‘T’, mirroring the numbering system for tigers in Ranthambore National Park.


22. A timeless journey
Step aboard The Blue Jasmine, a luxury rail journey like no other, winding through five culturally rich provinces of Thailand aboard a restored 1960s sleeper train.

This exquisite nine-day experience blends historic elegance with immersive, off-the-beaten-track excursions – from temple-strewn Ayutthaya to artisanal Sukhothai. Culminating in a riverside finale at the heritage Siri Sala villa in Bangkok, this private charter delivers exclusivity and Thai heritage at its finest.

Offered by DTH Travel, the Blue Jasmine train can comfortably accommodate up to 37 passengers across its 10 wagons.


23. Fold of honour
For a captivating cultural experience, delegates can explore the rich symbolism behind the tanjak, traditional Malay headgear. More than just folded cloth, the tanjak signifies rank, heritage, and identity. With over 208 documented folding styles, each variation tells a unique story.

Participants will learn how the tanjak serves as non-verbal communication, conveying status, allegiance, and pride through intricate folds that honour centuries of tradition. This activity is organised within a heritage building in Kuala Lumpur by Dusky Leaf Adventures.


24. Up and away
Treat your star employees to the ultimate high and discover Laos from the sky with a luxurious helicopter ride with Khiri Travel Laos.

Fly high above the stunning Nam Ngum Reservoir, often called “The Sea of Laos”. Witness Vang Vieng’s dramatic limestone mountains from an incredible vantage point, or uncover the secrets of the Plain of Jars from the sky. The company also provide helicopter transfers from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, ensuring a stylish and efficient journey for delegates.


25. Gastronomic jaunt
Organised by Macau Explorer Cultural Travel and Go Out Mall, this three-hour culinary tour is guided by a reputable chef, providing a hands-on culinary experience for incentive groups.

For example, chef Justin Paul (formerly of Michelin-star Golden Peacock) will lead participants through a local wet market to handpick fresh ingredients for a subsequent cooking session.

The tour, designed for eight to 20 participants, also includes exploring Macau’s hidden alleys and sampling iconic street snacks.


26. Puppet legacy
Delve into Cambodia’s rich culture with a shadow puppet theatre class.

The sacred art form of Sbek Thom – a UNESCO listed cultural treasure – has been entertaining Cambodians since pre-Angkorian times with towering puppets made of intricately-carved leather used to tell the tale of the Reamker, the Khmer version of the Ramayana.

The Sovanna Phum Art Association offers private puppet-making and dance workshops in Phnom Penh, giving visitors the unique chance to learn more about the UNESCO-listed art form that teeters on the brink of extinction.  


27. Sky-high sojourn
Embark on an unforgettable aerial journey with Volcanic Air, exploring Rotorua’s iconic volcanic landscapes. This experience starts with a 30-minute scenic floatplane flight, providing breathtaking views above Mount Tarawera and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley.

Ideal for groups up to 15, the experience culminates with a private landing at Lake Rotoiti’s secluded hot pools. Here, guests will enjoy a 90-minute soak in seven geothermal springs, accessible exclusively by air or water.

CTM appoints global head of growth marketing

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Corporate Travel Management has appointed Rebecca Welsch to the new role of global head of growth marketing.

Welsch is a seasoned B2B marketing leader with over 16 years of global experience spanning SaaS, enterprise technology, and corporate travel.

Most recently, she led global product marketing at Phocas Software, where she increased product attachment, improved sales alignment, and defined the company’s positioning through customer insight and cross-functional collaboration.

Plaza Premium Group appoints new GM for South-east Asia

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Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has promoted Cavin Loh as regional general manager for Southeast Asia – Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Thailand.

With over 15 years of experience in hospitality and airport services, Loh will oversee and drive the strategic growth, operational excellence, and commercial performance of PPG in his new role.

His previous roles include area general manager and regional commercial director of Southeast Asia, which highlights his deep understanding of regional operations and commitment to customer service excellence.

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