Asia/Singapore Wednesday, 22nd April 2026
Page 671

Tech Power – Part 2

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Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre exterior

Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre
Technology prowess: Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur set the pace for the latest in wireless, 4G telecommunications and digital audiovisual facilities.

Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre exterior

Its technologies include an extensive LAN setup, digital voice communication via IP network, IP video-conferencing facilities, video streaming, wireless conference microphones and high-speed internet connectivity both wired and wireless. The venue’s facilities include 43-inch TV tree signage, video walls at foyers of each level, pre-function 43-inch LCD screens at each hall, and an LED outdoor screen.

MITEC has enhanced its audiovisual capabilities by partnering with event services to offer a complete event staging solution, superior audiovisual production, creative styling and multimedia design, as well as innovative event technologies. The venue can also cater for a variety of AV requirements and is equipped with static rigging points in all its major venues.

On the horizon: In 2H2019, MITEC will update its website with a chatbot and offer Malay and Chinese languages.

It will also roll out the Exhibitor Service Centre digital platform later this year, which will allow clients to complete applications, manage documents, submit orders for services including audiovisual, stand catering, resources and make payments from the comfort of their own office.

The venue will also be investing in an e-event evaluation and feedback digital platform for a seamless client experience management.


Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
Technology prowess: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre has major Internet service providers connected to the building, enabling the centre to provide customised Internet bandwidth on demand and monitoring capability.

The centre is also equipped with 10G fibre backbone, enabling support of heavy multimedia streaming and other related IT services that an event organiser may require. It also offers a flexible speaker preparation set-up based on client requirements.

The IT backbone and network infrastructure is designed to be as flexible as possible to cater to any complex client requirements. Meanwhile, in-house technical teams will work closely with clients to assist them in using the centre’s technology infrastructure for a seamless event experience.

On the horizon: The centre is looking at offering value-add services for clients, such as enhanced speaker and audience engagement tools, as well as key learnings and analysis from data collected at the venue to help clients improve their events. The centre will also be installing enhanced digital signage throughout the venue to provide a more engaging and interactive experience for visitors.


Borneo Convention Centre Kuching
Technology prowess: Designed for speed, Borneo Convention Centre Kuching’s Wi-Fi provides wireless service for up to 8,000 users to stream on multiple devices simultaneously at any one time without interruption.

In addition, the high speed, high density and secure wireless connectivity service requires no login, passwords or inputting of personal data, and is ad-free. For clients who require even more speed or bandwidth, custom options are available for purchase.

The convention facility also offers a dedicated speaker support centre with secure network linking all meeting rooms. An in-house team of technicians will assist in setting up the workstation and connecting to the dedicated system for the purpose of uploading, reviewing and making last minute changes to the presentation slides, with the aim to provide seamless experiences for both the organisers and speakers.


Setia SPICE Convention Centre
Technology prowess: Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Penang is Green Building Index-certified, and runs on hybrid solar power provided via solar panels on the Setia SPICE Aquatic Centre.

Setia SPICE’s roof also comprises 654 LED lights where the colours can be customised by the organiser to suit the theme of an outdoor event held at the roof garden or display the corporate colours of the organisation.

Indoors, the ballroom can project live feeds out to the Grand Foyer, meeting spaces or any other venue at Setia SPICE, so that proceedings in the ballroom can be viewed live in other event areas.

The convention centre works with a number of Internet service providers to meet the bandwidth requirements of organisers. As an example, the convention centre has successfully held a meeting for 15,000 delegates, where everyone was able to connect their devices to the Internet at precisely the same time. – S Puvaneswary

IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok
Technology prowess: IMPACT Muang Thong Thani offers more than 140,000m² of indoor meeting space, and as such a large operation, has made sustainable efforts to reduce energy consumption by installing LED lighting technology – worth more than 44.5 million baht (US$1.4 million) – in most of its buildings such as the main IMPACT Arena, the facility’s eight exhibition halls, and numerous meeting rooms.

Preparing for an event at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani

IMPACT has also recently upgraded its venue mobile app, which allows users to access real-time traffic conditions around the venue, availability of car parking slots, directions to the halls, promotions and an event calendar.

To increase productivity and operational efficiency, IMPACT has also rolled out a customised enterprise resource planning system that can integrate the management of its core business processes in real time. This helps IMPACT respond to the needs of clients efficiently. Previously, problems arose when IMPACT worked with separate IT software and programmes that were not integrated.

On the horizon: IMPACT is studying the feasibility of adopting solar technology, a sustainable energy source that can help it further reduce its carbon footprint. The venue will also install more LED information displays around the venue.


Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall
Technology prowess: Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall (PEACH), under the flagship of the Royal Cliff Hotels offers fast and reliable Wi-Fi which has the capability to serve more than 2,500 devices simultaneously, and support all multimedia and cloud applications. Most importantly, the Wi-Fi is secure and difficult to hack.

Secondly, the event space boasts interactive digital signage and wall displays all throughout, allowing planners and organisers to present photos, videos and important information effortlessly to event delegates. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, schedules can be quickly modified and updated easily on these screens.

Finally, PEACH has just launched its new website, chock-full with features for planners, making it easy for them to obtain information when planning
events. There’s also an event inspiration page, where planners can take a look at past events to get their creative juices flowing.

On the horizon: PEACH is constantly on the lookout for new technologies, and will invest in it where appropriate. Discussions with companies in the following fields – multilingual interpretation system, advanced lighting technologies, augmented reality, guest messaging apps – are currently underway. The centre is also looking at increasing more oxygen in meeting rooms to enhance productivity. – Rachel AJ Lee

TCEB, private sector lure event delegates with experience enhancers

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Thailand MICE Signature campaign was launched last Thursday at Mahanakhon SkyWalk, Thailand's newest iconic travel landmark; TCEB's Nichapa Yoswee (second from left) stands with her programme partners

Building on Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau’s (TCEB) Redefine Your Business Events branding, the bureau’s Business unit has rolled out its new MICE Thailand Signature campaign which offers exclusive privileges and special discounts to event attendees coming to Thailand.

Some 262 establishments around the Kingdom have come together to dangle perks that encourage event attendees to maximise spending, extend their stay, or combine their business with selected upscale leisure, activities and experiences.

Thailand MICE Signature campaign was launched last Thursday at Mahanakhon SkyWalk, Thailand’s newest iconic travel landmark; TCEB’s Nichapa Yoswee (second from left) stands with her programme partners

Leading the charge, Nichapa Yoswee, TCEB’s senior vice president – business, said: “TCEB – Business created the campaign to capitalise on Thailand’s world-renowned hospitality, activities and rich culture. Thus, the 262 service providers joining the campaign represent such business as culinary, café, hotel, wellness and spa, shopping, show & entertainment, and workshop like Muay Thai and cooking classes.”

Participating service providers include Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA), Siam Synergy Trade Association, ICONSIAM, King Power Mahanakhon, Siam Takashimaya, Mega Bangna, Avani Riverside Bangkok, Anantara Riverside Bangkok, Radisson Blu Plaza Bangkok & Hotel, Oasis Spa, Divana Spa, Harnn, Karmakamet Diner, PAUL depuis 1889, ABC Cooking Studio, and Siam Niramit, among others.

“Partnering with private sector under our new branding is aimed at finding creative solutions that will enable return on investment, return on time and return on happiness for overseas MICE travellers. I believe MICE Thailand Signature campaign will achieve that aim,” said Nichapa.

Interested event attendees are invited to register for membership to get a manual, login instructions and selection of activities. A redemption code will be provided for event attendees to use with participating merchants.

Informa births corporate travel buyers club, promises free access and resources

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Multinational events and publishing company Informa is banking on its acquisition of CAPA – Centre for Aviation in January to mount an aggressive campaign to grab a slice of the trillion-dollar corporate travel buying market, starting in Asia.

Former ACTE regional director, Asia, Benson Tang, now helms CTC

Former ACTE regional director, Asia, Benson Tang, who joined UBM as director-corporate travel in April, has been appointed executive director to helm an exclusive and “unique” corporate travel buyers-only club named Corporate Travel Community (CTC).

CTC leverages Informa’s international event, intelligence, scholarly research brands, the acquisition of UBM last year and CAPA’s established events.

Membership is free, so are attending events and access to scholarly research in a wide range of industries.

Tang said Informa is committed to offering the buyer benefits to grow CTC over the next two years.

He commented the CTC mission is to create a large and vibrant travel buyer community, help travel managers progress in their day-to-day work, fine-tune their travel programmes and take them to a new level in their professional careers. He claimed no such community exists or has the resources of CTC.

With CAPA’s BlueSwanDaily.com, an aviation-centric bulletin also covering corporate travel news, and its established knowledge and training events, Tang is optimistic CTC can equal 31-year-old ACTE’s global membership of around 2,000 members within a few months of its launch.

CTC was launched yesterday in Seoul to coincide with the CAPA Airline CEOs event and CTC Members’ Air RFP Training & Accreditation Seminar today.

“CTC will provide members with the best information, educational materials, data and opportunities to network,” he added.

Pointing out that non-profit industry associations have to be “impartial” as they depend on “sponsorship” support, Tang said CTC would not be “burdened” and will afford members a platform for “useful, open and frank discussion”.

As a commercial entity however, CTC welcomes launch partners and sponsors if they can create opportunities for members, he pointed out.

Meanwhile, Tang has enlisted a dozen leading Asian corporate travel buyers to be CTC’s inaugural council members, with Michael Molloy, category leader – travel and expense management, procurement, as its chairman.

Tang commented: “I want to be very aggressive, focus on Asia for now followed by Australasia, Europe and the US last as it is the stronghold of ACTE and GBTA. The corporate travel industry is worth US$1.3 trillion and I believe the market is big enough to support two or three associations.”

Corporate travel buyers polled in Asia welcomed the launch of CTC, adding that it can complement ACTE and GBTA.

One Shanghai-based corporate travel buyer, working for a European company, said GBTA’s events there were important to him. He also credited GBTA for its high-profile US conferences and its lobbying power with the US government.

Trade relations boost business travel traffic between Taiwan and India

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Warm trade relations between Taiwan and India are helping to spur demand for corporate travel and business event exchanges.

Taiwan is currently the 16th largest trading partner of India, and bilateral trade between the two countries stood at US$7 billion in 2018 – up 11 per cent year-on-year.

Trust Lin, director, Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Singapore Office, told TTGmice: “Business travel has grown between the two nations. At present there are about 41,000 visitors from India to Taiwan (out of) our total international arrival of 11 million. India arrivals are growing and we see a lot of incentive travel demand. Hyundai (in India) took an incentive group of more than 400 pax to Taiwan in April this year while Asus (in India) brought a group of more than 350 pax in May.”

“Many Indian companies are also participating in tradeshows and exhibitions in Taiwan, such as Computex. Delegates stay on Taiwan for one or two nights after. Many companies that had participated in Taiwan exhibitions are also choosing to send their incentive groups to the destination,” he added.

Fueling business travel traffic from India to Taiwan is the latter’s New Southbound Policy, which provides subsidies, administrative assistance, souvenirs and more for incentive groups hailing from the 10 South-east Asian countries, six nations in South Asia, as well as Australia and New Zealand.

On the other hand, Taiwanese companies are also drawn to business events in India and efforts are underway to grow trade exchange.

Taipei Economic and Cultural Center, India ambassador Tien Chung- Kwang addresses the audience at Taiwan Expo 2019

The second edition of the annual Taiwan Expo in May saw participation from 130 exhibitors showcasing their state-of-the-art products through 230 booths this year. The event in New Delhi was jointly organised by Taiwan’s Bureau of Foreign Trade and Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA).

Earlier in January, the Vibrant Gujarat summit featured six companies from Taiwan – said to be the largest national delegation at the event.

A total of 20 trade and investment promotion events by TAITRA will take place in India this year.

Taiwanese companies are expected to invest about US$500 million in India by the end of 2019.

“The events we organised here have helped to educate Indian participants about Taiwan. They then choose to visit Taiwan for business and leisure. A lot of large Indian companies such as Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Group as well as Indian SMEs are participating in events in Taiwan. Shows related to food, electronics and automobile are popular among Indian delegates,” said Walter Yeh, president of TAITRA.

TNZ makes joint industry effort to measure, maximise conference legacies

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Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) has launched a project to measure and maximise the lasting benefits generated by conferences for the local community.

With more than 76,855 international visitors arriving in New Zealand each year to attend business events and posting an economic contribution of over NZ$500 million over the past five years, conferences in New Zealand are regarded as big business.

de Monchy: better understand of conference impacts

René de Monchy, Tourism New Zealand’s director of commercial, said in a statement: “We know that business events deliver millions to our communities each year, but we want to find out more about the lasting positive impacts they have on our people and communities beyond the dollars.”

To do this, TNZ is taking a collaborative multi-sector approach, incorporating tourism, economic development, environmental impacts, and social processes. It will identify conferences with the ability to provide long-term benefits for New Zealand and work with conference organisers and delegates to make this happen, such as through advancing research opportunities.

“Together we can identify potential impacts (ahead of) a conference and put measures in place to create positive lasting outcomes and benefits for New Zealand and New Zealanders once the conference is over.”

EventsAIR debuts advanced learning programme for planners

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A new training programme for planners

EventsAIR has rolled out its Fast Track training programme, said to be the meetings industry’s most comprehensive learning platform which is aimed at rapidly educating and certifying planners in the latest event management tools and technology.

The learning content includes education on cyber security, PCI (payment card industry) compliance, data privacy, data quality control as well as an end-to-end use of technology to manage a meeting.

A new training programme for planners

“Our clients tell us that as their business grows, and they onboard new staff, they want a fast and consistent way to train staff. We took this challenge and our team created an extremely comprehensive curriculum and online training platform,” said EventsAIR CEO Trevor Gardiner.

Fast Track comprises three stages. The first stage is designed to get new team members up to speed with event technology and best practices. Videos and exercises in a sandbox event are offered across nine topics.

After completing a detailed exam and receiving their Meeting Planner Certification, participants can proceed to second stage where detailed online training is conducted on topics such as abstract management and building attendee apps.

A highlight of the programme – and said to be the first in the industry – is a certification that enables internal trainers within event management organisations to get the skills, resources and accreditation to deliver the comprehensive training programme internally.

“Our goal is to empower our customers, and the Training Certification component of Fast Track provides an excellent structure to assist our customers onboard their own staff,” said Gardiner.

“We have gone beyond technology and have included content like the importance of data quality, planning in relation to the use of technology and various security issues – all highly relevant to the meetings industry.”

Alec Sonenthal, director of education for EventsAIR, said: “I have been providing education in the meetings industry for over 30 years, and the Fast Track programme represents the most comprehensive learning system I have ever seen.”

Fast Track, Meeting Planner Certification and Trainer Certification are available at no charge for all EventsAIR customers.

EventsAIR is also offering the programme for free in universities and colleges with MICE courses.

Gardiner said: “This helps students better prepare for their real-world career and also exposes them to current issues such as data privacy and cyber security.”

Photo of the day: Fitting finale for 50 years of incentives celebration

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A spectacular fireworks display over Sydney Harbour’s Goat Island was the culmination of a five-day familiarisation visit, from May 26 to 30, for 21 corporate clients, travel agents and media from China, India, Japan and Taiwan, as part of Business Events Sydney’s (BESydney) 50th anniversary year.

According to BESydney CEO, Lyn Lewis-Smith, incentive gatherings and corporate meetings from Asia now make up half of the bureau’s business event wins each year, more than doubling over the past decade.

“We were one of the first Australian convention bureaus to commit to the Asian market, and those longstanding ties have given us a great foundation to continue to grow,” said Lewis-Smith.

Scenic flights between Danang and Hue now on sale

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Hai Au Aviation, the provider of Vietnam’s first and only seaplane experiences, has commenced a new Danang-Hue route that includes a scenic aerial tour of the latter UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Scenic flights over Danang and Hue are available

The daily 40-minute flight is operated between Danang International Airport and Phu Bai International Airport, and allows passengers to also book scenic flights over Danang’s famed Son Tra Peninsula and its 30km-long coastline as well as Hue’s Citadel, Imperial Enclosure, and coastal lagoons.

The aircraft used for this route is the 12-passenger Cessna Grand Caravan 208B-EX, one of the industry’s safest, most powerful single-engine airplanes.

Javier Pardo joins Avani as VP operations

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Avani Hotels & Resorts has appointed Javier Pardo as vice president of operations.

In his new role, Pardo will oversee the operational and financial performance for the brand, and will also lead new brand initiatives.

Based in the company’s regional office in Bangkok, Pardo will report directly to Robert Kunkler, COO of Minor Hotels.

Pardo brings almost two decades of hospitality experience across Europe to the table, with his last posting being director of operations and commercial director for the NH Hotel Group.

Village Hotel at Sentosa Opening Privileges

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Brought to you by Far East Hospitality

Village Hotel at Sentosa is now open. 

A refreshing experience beckons at Singapore’s resort destination for vacations, events, and staycations. This new Village Hotel at Sentosa offers a welcome getaway from the city’s bustle.

Village Hotel at Sentosa opens its doors to families, as well as leisure and meeting groups, a unique island experience.

Located at the heart of Sentosa, the new hotels are well connected to the attractions on the island as well as within close proximity to the key locations on Singapore mainland.

  • 2 minutes’ walk from Imbiah Monorail Station
  • 10 minutes from Singapore’s Cable Car Sky Network
  • 15 minutes from Singapore’s Central Business District, major shopping areas and attractions including Gardens by the Bay and Trick Eye Museum

Village Hotels at Sentosa offers the perfect experience for leisure and business groups. The 606-room hotel perfectly captures all Sentosa’s Sun, sand and sea in its modern architecture and the décor in sun-washed hues of nature by the sea. A unique recreation experience also awaits within the hotel. The pool deck located on the 3rd level of the hotel offers 4 themed pool experiences. From the Children’s Play Pool with its water slides and water features to the Adventure Pool, drift away through the Amazonian jungle along the Lazy River Pool to the breath-taking Pamukkale Pool with its picturesque sea view. The hotel also offers on delighting the guests with activities and entertainment for all ages – Aqua Zumba classes, balloon sculpting and sand castle building at Palawan Beach. You are literally transported into a world of endless fun at the hotel.

Not forgetting the thematic gardens, and outdoor spaces for rest, recreation or even intimate events. Mix business with pleasure when you book a space with us. After your event, retreat to our Pamukkale Pool which comes with a view and bar – perfect for drinks and networking.

Holding large-scale celebrations and meetings for up to 360 people are possible too at The Commune within Village Hotel at Sentosa. The Commune is a welcoming space with large windows that overlook the Heritage Courtyard. Its flexible and spacious area makes it ideal for big conferences and events.

Cosy and more intimate events are not forgotten as they can be held at the Revelry Hall in Events Centre which is ideal for celebrations and social events.

Exclusively catering to adults, The Outpost Hotel has 193 guest rooms with contemporary industrial aesthetics and clean crisp lines inspired by black-and-white design. Offering personalised services and amenities, the hotel is built for adults and couples seeking exclusivity. Room amenities include toiletries kit by Australian beauty brand APPELLES Apothecary & Lab, pillow mist kit for turn down service, and customized complimentary mini bars from a selection of wine, liquor, chocolates, and gluten-free snacks. The Outpost Hotel soft opened since 1 April and its full experience will be available from 1 July 2019.

Housed in a designated conserved building, the 40 luxurious guest rooms and suites of The Barracks Hotel are decorated with old-world sophistication and elegance will suit your most prestigious guests. On the ground floor, rooms offer direct access to the private pool and jacuzzi. The Barracks Hotel will open in Q3 of 2019.

At our new hotels in Sentosa, there will always be something for everyone.

Take your guests out of the city and transport them to Sentosa’s new getaway – where you can find meeting venues and event spaces filled with sunshine & sea breeze. Start planning your one-of-a-kind event with us. Email sales.sentosa@fareast.com.sg

Need a breath of fresh air? Book your next staycation now and enjoy our opening exclusives via http://bit.ly/VillageHotelatSentosa-OpeningPromo

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