The event was promoted to Indonesian stakeholders at Hotel Mercure Jakarta Gatot Subroto
Indonesia will launch the inaugural Indonesia Business Event Mart (IBEM) and the Southeast Asia Business Events Forum (SEABEF) in two months to bolster Jakarta’s standing as a regional hub for business events.
Organised by E&C Productions and TTG Events with the support of the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism, the dual event is scheduled for July 28 to 31 at the Jakarta International Convention Center.
The event was promoted to Indonesian stakeholders at Hotel Mercure Jakarta Gatot Subroto
The marketplace expects to host 250 international buyers and 200 sellers, providing a targeted platform for venue hotels and event solution providers to connect with key decision-makers.
While IBEM focuses on commercial business matching, the concurrent SEABEF will serve as a leadership forum for policymakers and industry associations to discuss the shifting trends and challenges within the South-east Asian business events sector.
To showcase Jakarta’s diverse tourism appeal, Dinas Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif DKI (Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Office) will arrange for a curated post-show island-hopping tour for media and buyers, featuring destinations such as Onrust and Macan Islands.
From left: Malaysian Society of Association Executives’ Tiffany Chung (moderator); Malaysian Institute of Chemistry’s Soon Ting Kueh; Malaysian Association of Clinical Biochemists' Raja Elina Raja Aziddin; and Malaysian Institute of Architects' Adrianta Aziz
Association leaders in Malaysia stressed the urgent need for stronger succession planning and leadership development during a panel session titled Succession Matters: Building the Next Generation of Association Leaders at the recent Association Day 2026 organised by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau.
Tiffany Chung, council member of the Malaysian Society of Association Executives highlighted a gap after only a handful of participants indicated that their associations had formal succession plans in place.
From left: Malaysian Society of Association Executives’ Tiffany Chung (moderator); Malaysian Institute of Chemistry’s Soon Ting Kueh; Malaysian Association of Clinical Biochemists’ Raja Elina Raja Aziddin; and Malaysian Institute of Architects’ Adrianta Aziz
She stressed that succession planning should go beyond leadership replacement, and focus on ensuring long-term organisational resilience and sustainability.
There are ways to go about doing this. For example, Soon Ting Kueh, president of the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry, shared how the institute has been nurturing future leaders through its Young Chemists Network, an initiative introduced in 2018 for members below the age of 45.
“Through the programme, younger members are encouraged to organise activities, participate in committees and gain leadership exposure within the association. We are training them to take over as future leaders of the association,” he said.
Another panellist, Raja Elina Raja Aziddin, president of the Malaysian Association of Clinical Biochemists, emphasised the importance of creating an environment where younger members feel empowered to contribute ideas and take ownership of projects.
These younger members, she shared, are already leading digital transformation initiatives, including the development of software systems to manage memberships and events.
“We empower younger members to believe that their voices matter and that they have the power to shape the future of the profession. True leaders are not defined by titles, but by their willingness to step forward, contribute ideas and take responsibility,” Aziddin said.
Also in the panel was Adrianta Aziz, immediate past president of the Malaysian Institute of Architects, who highlighted the importance of mentorship and values-driven leadership within the architectural profession.
He said younger architects are continuously guided and mentored by senior practitioners throughout their professional journey, adding that leadership is built through teamwork, humility and service to society.
From left: Constellar’s Khoo Yew Jin; Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC)’s Winnee Lim; Resorts World Sentosa (RWS)’s Janz Ng; Bhiraj Buri Group’s Pitiphatr Buri; Nusantara International Convention Exhibition (NICE)’s Ryan Adrian; and Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC)’s Michael Kruppe; photo by Thai Exhibition Association
Surviving today’s shifting economic landscape requires venues to step far beyond the role of silent landlords, according to industry leaders at two panel discussions at Thailand MICE Week 2026.
According to industry experts on the The Future of MICE: Global Trends & Leadership Insights panel, venues are now actively stepping up to unlock government collaborations and vital funding.
From left: Constellar’s Khoo Yew Jin; Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC)’s Winnee Lim; Resorts World Sentosa (RWS)’s Janz Ng; Bhiraj Buri Group’s Pitiphatr Buri; Nusantara International Convention Exhibition (NICE)’s Ryan Adrian; and Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC)’s Michael Kruppe; photo by Thai Exhibition Association
Prakash Ramajillu, general manager at Koelnmesse, noted that new host countries often fail when organisers operate in isolation. He emphasised that for an event to be a success, there must be active collaboration between the venue, the government, and the tourism board.
In Hong Kong, this collaborative ecosystem has yielded tangible commercial results.
AsiaWorld-Expo’s (AWE) CEO Enid Low highlighted the impact of a recent three-year, 100 per cent rental subsidy scheme for exhibitions – launched by the government during Covid – that helped the venue secure 13 new exhibitions last year.
However, Low added that the venue wanted the events to be sustainable and around for the long-run, not just during the subsidy period.
To ensure long-term viability, AWE connects organisers with local associations, contractors, and alternative government funding streams – such as grants from the Commercial, Cultural or Sports Bureaus – tailored to the event’s specific scope and objectives.
Over on the Beyond Tenancy panel, Ryan Adrian, managing director of Nusantara International Convention Exhibition in Indonesia, noted that his commercial staff are now officially positioned as sales and relationship managers.
Transitioning from an operational to a collaborative mindset is essential because we need to work hand-in-hand to support everyone. In these challenging times, NICE prioritises the relationship aspect of our roles because, ultimately, it is a relationship-driven business, Adrian explained.
Janz Ng, senior director of partnership & sales at Singapore’s Resorts World Sentosa, echoed this sentiment, stating that commercial teams must view organisers not as customers, but as “client partners” working toward shared business outcomes.
“It’s a mindset shift where I’m not just earning revenue from you; I’m presenting you with partnership opportunities. Additionally, the MICE spaces we have is not just the convention space. All the MICE spaces under my purview includes any possible space within the attractions, within the hotels, and even the restaurants,” Ng said.
Pitipatr Buri, CEO of Bhiraj Buri Group in Thailand, concluded: “In the past, the role of the venues and organisers had a very clear line. For us, it was being a silent operator.
“But now it is more about how we can help the organisers by using past databases and providing much better predictability on current shows. Stronger partnership is the key that will lead to better navigation of uncertainties.”
From left: BCD Travel’s Ben Wedlock; EY’s Nicola Winchester; GBTA’s Derek Sadubin (moderator); and Thunes’ Evgeniya Kataeva
Traditional metrics like online adoption rates are becoming redundant as artificial intelligence (AI) erases the line between online and offline booking, according to industry experts on The Big Idea panel at the GBTA APAC Conference in Singapore yesterday.
For decades, the online adoption rate served as the gold standard for travel programme efficiency. However, there is now a near-unanimous consensus that this era is over, driven by a fragmented landscape of apps and chat.
From left: BCD Travel’s Ben Wedlock; EY’s Nicola Winchester; GBTA’s Derek Sadubin (moderator); and Thunes’ Evgeniya Kataeva; photo by Rachel AJ Lee
“Looking at it from just an online adoption level as a KPI is redundant,” said Nicola Winchester, global travel, meetings and events leader at EY. “I would prefer we look at the value drivers – efficiency and traveller experience – rather than just the channel.”
Evgeniya Kataeva, global head of workplace and travel at Thunes, echoed this sentiment, noting that a high adoption rate does not reflect a programme’s health.
“A 98 per cent online adoption does not say anything about our booking window or actual performance. It will become a natural direction for every programme, and therefore, become outdated,” she explained.
Ben Wedlock, BCD Travel’s senior vice president of global sales for APAC, used a historical analogy to urge travel managers to embrace AI, comparing the current moment to 1991, when Estonia chose a technology-first path while neighbouring Latvia stayed with analogue networks.
“Estonia is now a global Fintech hub because they future-proofed their infrastructure. AI is here and now. Do we want to keep adopting analogue technology and facsimiles, or do we want to evolve like Estonia?” Wedlock challenged.
Winchester further shared that EY is already building agentic AI capabilities, allowing travellers to book trips entirely within workplace environments like Microsoft Teams.
She said: “You can be talking to an agent in Teams that gives you offers, links to an approval process, and flows through to expenses in seconds. The distinction between online and offline becomes redundant.”
Consequently, the focus is shifting from controlling traveller behaviour to guiding it. This involves a “carrot” approach – creating a seamless experience that encourages users to stay in-programme – balanced against the “stick” of duty of care.
All panellists agreed that “rogue” bookings remain a major risk. In one instance, a traveller saved US$200 on a booking but cost the company US$3,000 due to hidden cancellation terms, Wedlock shared.
“If you can make a programme so efficient that people do not even realise they are being policy-managed, that is the utopia,” Winchester concluded.
The signing between Koelnmesse and Amara Expo; photo by Koelnmesse Ekky Ramliadi
Koelnmesse and Amara Expo have launched a joint venture, Nine Koeln Indonesia, to capitalise on a projected 15 per cent growth in the nation’s business events sector.
Led by managing director Etty Anggraeni, the new entity integrates Koelnmesse’s global exhibition network with Amara’s local market expertise to strengthen Indonesia’s position as a regional trade hub.
The signing between Koelnmesse and Amara Expo; photo by Koelnmesse Ekky Ramliadi
The venture builds on a decade of collaboration, including the Indonesia Dental Exhibition & Conference in 2017, Interzum Jakarta in 2024, and International Hardware Fair Indonesia in 2025.
Mathias Kuepper, regional president APAC, Koelnmesse, said: “Establishing Nine Koeln Indonesia reinforces our long-term commitment to Indonesia and allows us to further connect our global portfolio with this dynamic market.”
Operations will scale rapidly in September 2026 with a concentrated lineup of major trade fairs. IFMAC WOODMAC is scheduled for September 23 to 26, followed by the second edition of Interzum Jakarta, International Hardware Fair Indonesia, and IFFINA+ powered by imm cologne, all running from September 24 to 27.
Global tourism and business events industry consulting firm, GainingEdge, has announced that Thomas Reiser will join the company as partner, effective May 15, 2026.
Reiser brings more than 25 years of international leadership experience in association management and business events, with a track record of leading and transforming global organisations.
His career spans senior executive roles across both associations and leading association management companies and professional congress organisers.
Most recently, Reiser served as executive director of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis, where he led a period of significant expansion, growing the organisation’s global reach, membership, and financial performance while overseeing major international congresses and launching impactful global initiatives.
Prior to this, he held leadership roles with organisations such as Smith Bucklin, MCI Group, Interel Association Management, and several international medical societies.
Globus family of brands will transition Chris Hall from managing director, Asia Pacific to chairman and strategic advisor, a newly-created role effective July 15, 2026.
He has led the Asia-Pacific region since March 2025, most recently driving a refreshed strategy across product, pricing and marketing, including new flight-inclusive offerings and value-led initiatives.
As Conrad Manila celebrates its 10th anniversary, the luxury hotel reflects on a decade of elevating the Philippines’ MICE landscape.
With a strategic Manila Bay location, purpose-built venues and intuitive service, Conrad Manila has become a trusted address for MICE, serving local and international markets.
A milestone year for business events
Since opening in June 2016, Conrad Manila has steadily established itself as one of Metro Manila’s leading destinations for business events. Managed by Hilton and located within the Mall of Asia complex, the hotel marks its 10th year with a strong track record of hosting conferences, exhibitions and corporate gatherings that support the growth of the Philippine MICE industry.
Overlooking Manila Bay, the property combines accessibility with a refined setting, offering event organisers a seamless experience from arrival to execution.
Strategic location and architectural vision
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The Diplomatic Suite offers a splendid view of Manila Bay
The Forbes Ballroom, one of two grand ballrooms equipped with advanced audiovisual technology for seamless meetings
Conrad Manila is designed with the comfort of business travellers in mind
Guests can relax in the inviting swimming pool
Conrad Manila enjoys a highly connected location with direct access to SMX Convention Center and SM Mall of Asia via covered walkways. This integration allows event participants to move effortlessly between hotels, convention venues, retail and dining spaces.
The hotel is also a short drive from Ninoy Aquino International Airport and major business districts, making it attractive to both domestic and international delegates.
Its structure draws inspiration from the shipping vessels that traverse Manila Bay. This design concept reflects movement, scale and connectivity, which are qualities aligned with the dynamic nature of large-scale meetings and exhibitions.
Purpose-built MICE facilities
The hotel offers over 4,000m2 of flexible event spaces, including two grand ballrooms and multiple function rooms equipped with advanced audiovisual technology. These venues can be configured to support a wide range of event formats, from executive meetings and incentive briefings to multi-day conventions and product launches.
Conrad Manila also integrates hybrid event solutions and advanced digital platforms, enabling seamless engagement for both onsite and remote participants across a wide range of business events.
Designed for business travellers
Conrad Manila features 347 guestrooms and suites that cater to the needs of business travellers. Each room incorporates intuitive technology, reliable internet connectivity, and functional workspaces. Executive rooms and suites include access to the Executive Lounge, offering private meeting areas and quiet spaces ideal for networking or focused work.
Floor-to-ceiling windows provide views of either the city skyline or Manila Bay, creating an environment that balances productivity with comfort.
Enhancing incentive and delegate experiences
Beyond meetings, Conrad Manila enhances incentive and conference programmes with leisure and wellness offerings.
Guests can enjoy the infinity swimming pool with refreshing drinks from the pool bar, a fully equipped fitness centre, and the Conrad Spa, which offers treatments designed to promote relaxation and recovery.
For culturally enriching experiences, the hotel also houses Gallery C, showcasing contemporary Philippine art.
Together, these facilities enable organisers to craft well-balanced itineraries that seamlessly blend business objectives with rest, wellness, and meaningful engagement.
Culinary versatility for corporate events
Dining remains a key component of Conrad Manila’s MICE proposition. With award-winning restaurants and lounges, the hotel supports corporate breakfasts, gala dinners, receptions and private functions.
Brasserie on 3 offers flexible dining options, while China Blue by Jereme Leung presents refined Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting. C Lounge also serves as a relaxed post-event venue, where guests can enjoy expertly crafted drinks against the backdrop of Manila Bay sunsets. The hotel’s events team can help customise menus to suit event themes and dietary requirements.
Commitment to sustainable events
Through Hilton’s Travel with Purpose programme, Conrad Manila integrates sustainability into its operations. The hotel implements energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures, responsible sourcing practices and initiatives to reduce single-use plastics. These efforts align with the growing demand for environmentally responsible venues within the MICE sector.
As it marks its 10th anniversary, Conrad Manila continues to strengthen its leadership position, delivering business events defined by reliability, adaptability, and thoughtful service.
Celebrate your next corporate milestone at a venue shaped by ten years of MICE expertise. From conferences and incentive programmes to executive meetings, Conrad Manila offers world-class facilities, seamless connectivity and trusted service excellence.
Discover how your next event can be elevated along Manila Bay with Conrad Manila.
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He has led the Asia-Pacific region since March 2025, most recently driving a refreshed strategy across product, pricing and marketing, including new flight-inclusive offerings and value-led initiatives.
He joins from Accor, where he led network growth across the Pacific, specialising in asset-light management and franchise agreements.
