Business Events (BE) Malaysia|Vol 6|No 1|2020|JONATHAN KAN

BE B U I L D I N G

B U S I N E S S

BUSINESS EVENTS MALAYSIA

Penang Hosts BE Forum & Inaugural ICCA Asia Pacific Summit MACEOS Covid-19 advisory

A LEGEND IN THE EXHIBITION INDUSTRY JONATHAN KAN Founder & CEO, Fairs & Events Management Sdn Bhd

E V E N T S

E X C E L L E N C E VOl. 6 I NO. 1 I 2020 ISSN 2289-893X RM10

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Contents

Vol. 6/No. 1/2020

COVER STORY 02

A Legend in the Exhibition Industry - Jonathan Kan Founder and CEO of Fairs & Events Management Sdn Bhd shares his experience of the industry’s early days and how he continues to organise innovative events every year.

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02 FEATURES 06

MATRADE’s push for 2020

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Penang hosts BE Forum and inaugural ICCA Asia Pacific Summit

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BE News

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MACEOS Covid-19 Advisory

EVENTS 16

Members’ Event Calendar

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New Members Listing

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5 Reasons to be a Member of MACEOS

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Cover Story

A LEGEND IN THE EXHIBITION INDUSTRY – JONATHAN KAN

Founder and CEO of Fairs & Events Management Sdn Bhd shares his experience of the industry’s early days and how he continues to organise innovative events every year.

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B

efore being elected the first MACEOS president in 1990, Jonathan Kan was already a familiar name in the business events industry.

Working for the Malaysian Exhibition Services Sdn Bhd as marketing director in the early 1980s, he was tasked to bring to Malaysia a slew of trade exhibitions that would contribute to nation-building.

“In those days, we had to scramble to find spaces large enough to house the exhibitions we wanted to bring in. Often times, we were confined to hotel ballrooms, open spaces.

“There were no purpose-built space for the BE industry. We had the opportunity to lease a large space next to the Chin Woo stadium in Kuala Lumpur.

“Although the Changkat Pavilion set up was temporary, we put in false ceilings, plywood sidewalls and air-conditioning units. Within three years, the exhibition space spread out to the parking areas and soon surrounding empty spaces as well as the nearby Stadium Negara.”

At the same time, PWTC mooted in 1984 was opened for business in 1985. While the facility was supposed to cater to the BE industry, its specs were not.

Kan had advised PWTC management to change the height of the halls, floor loading and access.

Meanwhile, there were talks to reclaim Changkat Pavilion for redevelopment. In the interim, the industry was hampered, not being able to attract bigger organisers or international shows.

There had been plans to have large purpose-built exhibition facilities but many fell through. In 1993, Changkat Pavilion was officially closed.

We worked around the clock to clean the place as much as possible, made makeshift platforms so the exhibits are raised from the mud. It was a stressful time but the show went on.

OTHER BE FACILITIES TO COME

In 1993, PWTC later extended its exhibition space to another building next door. Meanwhile, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre was built to cater to the numerous oil and gas events Petronas had.

KLCC initially had 5,000 square metres and an additional 3,000 square metres last year. Other BE facilities that were built over the years were mediumsized, scattered around Klang Valley.

The gamechanger was in 2018 when the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) was launched.

It is the third-largest BE venue in the Southeast Asia region and the largest trade and exhibition centre in Malaysia, offering over 51,000 square metres of exhibition space and triple volume exhibition halls.

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Cover Story

fair share of stumbles. After all you learn to avoid mistakes after each show.

“I recalled in 1995, three days before the inaugural Metaltech was opened at PWTC, the halls were flooded.

“We worked around the clock to clean the place as much as possible, made makeshift platforms so the exhibits are raised from the mud. It was a stressful time but the show went on.

“It taught me that you even have to plan for natural disasters.”

Kan is also credited in creating new and successful shows. He said the ideas came about during the many discussions and talks with international trade associations, government agencies and industry leaders.

“Through such engagements, I could identify what shows would be successful in Malaysia. Starting a new show is always a calculated risk. But by engaging the stakeholders, we could minimise the risk.”

He spends the better part of the year travelling to various trade shows in the US, Europe and China.

A good indicator of BE’s growth in Malaysia is look at the many international organisers have either acquired Malaysian shows or set up regional offices here. “Our neighbours are strong competitors so to compete, we need to be more innovative by creating new shows,” he said.

ROLE IN MACEOS

EARLY CHALLENGES

From 1988 to 1998, Malaysia was experiencing a double-digit growth, where 35% GDP was from manufacturing.

Hence, it was only natural that Kan looked into bringing in trade shows that focused on priority industries such as defence, manufacturing, oil and gas, technology, communications and agriculture.

It was in 1994 Kan left Malaysian Exhibition Services to set up his own company called Tradelinks Exhibition Services Sdn Bhd. Among his first few shows were Woodworking, Metaltech and the Malaysian International Furniture Fair.

In late 2004, he founded Fair & Events Management Sdn Bhd after selling off Tradelinks.

“There were opportunities to create new shows.

However, it is a risk the organisers have to bear.

Typically, a new show needs a year or two to come to fruition.

“To have a truly successful show, one must plan meticulously. But that’s not to say I didn’t have my

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As the industry grew so did the number of players.

Kan, representing MES at the time, and many others banded together to form MACEOS in 1991.

Kan was its pro-tem chairman with five others. He later went on to be MACEOS president for six terms – 2000-2002, 2002-2004, 2004-2006, 2008-2010, 2010-2012 and 2012-2014.

During his tenure as MACEOS President, he represented MACEOS to engage in dialogue sessions with policymakers to introduce several changes, making the association more visible and vibrant.

He also called on organisers to provide facts and figures so the data could be used to formulate strategic plans to improve the industry. Representing MACEOS, he managed to negotiate for better rates with venue owner and freight forwarder contractors.

“With a strong industry voice, we could approach the government with blueprints, suggestions and more active engagements. We also asked for better corporate tax exemptions and relief to help grow the industry.

“MACEOS was invited to attend discussions with the relevant government agencies as part of efforts to

understand the BE industry. We provided statistics, insights and so on to Pemandu.

“BE was then included in the NKEA (National Key Economic Areas) under MyCEB that is overseen by the Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture.. We hope to encourage more shows that are between 30,000 and 50,000 square metres in size.”

His efforts also led to the formation of the Asian Federation of Exhibition & Convention Associations (AFECA). AFECA was registered with the Singapore Registry of Societies on 25 January 2005. Prior to its registration, an assembly meeting was in Singapore on 21 September 2004.

The assembly was attended by associations’ representatives from China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Taiwan.

HIS WORK IS NOT DONE YET

Recognising a gap in BE talents, Kan has branched out to giving talks and seminars.

“Our lack of talents in the industry can be attributed to youth mentality, interests, perception and entrepreneurship.

“Many are perhaps unaware of the opportunities the industry has. Schools and universities rarely encourage students to take up event management, giving BE a mismatched perception.

“In fact, working in the BE industry helps to hone a lot of transferable skills such as planning, attention to details and creativity.

“Hence, when MACEOES started its internship programmes, training and certification, it helps to create awareness and attract more talents.”

In his free time, Kan hits the links to stay in shape.

With a strong industry voice, we could approach the government with blueprints, suggestions and more active engagements. We also asked for better corporate tax exemptions and relief to help grow the industry.

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Feature

MATRADE’s push for 2020 The International Trade and Industry Ministry is focused on Malaysia’s presence in the global markets.

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n the face of the Covid-19 outbreak, Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Dr Ong Kian Ming said 2020 is poised to be a challenging one for industries relating to travel.

The ministry has been consulted in the formulation of an economic stimulus package that will be announced by the prime minister on February 27. “We have given our recommendations and I am sure the Finance Ministry is taking a fair view to coordinate all the efforts.”

Dr Ong has assured that the stimulus package will address pressing concerns of various stakeholders with bridging measures to tide over

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the country. Although a few major business trade events have been postponed to the second and third quarter of the year, he said the government is cautiously optimistic.

He asked industry players to be prepared to attract more investors from China and multinational corporations given Malaysia’s stable and business-friendly environment.

“Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, we are cautiously optimistic that we can continue to attract quality investments once business resumes as usual.”

As for the BE industry, Dr Ong said the government hopes that by playing host to Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Summit related activities,

During the APEC Leaders’ Summit we are expecting a total of 16,000 foreign delegates, 120 meetings in five cities. We hope this will give confidence that Malaysia is open for business.

-Dr Ong Kian Ming, Deputy Minister International Trade Industry it will showcase the country’s capabilities as a BE hub.

In the run-up to the November summit, there will be a slew of meetings with senior officials of APEC member countries. “We are expecting a total of 16,000 foreign delegates, 120 meetings in five cities. We hope this will give confidence that Malaysia is open for business.”

APEC, comprising 21 economies including Malaysia, is a regional economic forum established in 1989 to leverage the growing interdependence of the Asia-Pacific; and aims to create greater prosperity by promoting balanced, inclusive, sustainable, innovative and secure growth and accelerating regional economic integration.

Meanwhile, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) has lined up 557 programmes and activities for 2020.

Its chairman Tan Sri Dr Halim

Mohammad said MATRADE will continue to encourage Malaysian companies to participate in and leverage the numerous programmes organised by the agency to tap overseas markets.

“After 26 years in operation, MATRADE has evolved into a dynamic and well-known trade promotion organisation.”

He said the SME contribution to exports is expected to rise from 17.5% in 2018 to 30% in 2030.

“We have also supported the development of SMEs via various programmes and financial assistance including Market Development Grant, Services Export Fund and e-Trade.”

October. The financial facilitation is open to all Malaysian SMEs, professional service providers, trade and industry associations, chambers of commerce, professional bodies and trade-related co-operatives.

In addition, under the MDG, the claimed expenses for participation in international trade fairs held overseas have also been revised to RM25,000 from RM15,000.

For more information, contact MATRADE at 03-6207 7593 or email mdg@matrade.gov.my.

Market Development Grant MATRADE has raised the Market Development Grant (MDG) ceiling from RM200,000 to RM300,000 per company, effective January 1.

The increase was part of the Budget 2020 announcement last

Among the activities eligible for MDG PARTICIPATION IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIRS OR EXHIBITIONS • • • •

International Trade Fairs Or Exhibitions Held In Malaysia International Trade Fairs Or Exhibitions Held Overseas Participation In Trade & Investment Missions (Tim) Or Export Acceleration Missions (Eam) Participation In International Conferences Held Overseas

EXPENSES ELIGIBLE FOR MDG: • • • • • •

Participation fee or booth rental Booth construction or enhancement Air fare Public land transportation - bus, taxi or train from Malaysia to an ASEAN country destination only Accommodation Listing fees

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PENANG HOSTS BE FORUM AND INAUGURAL ICCA ASIA PACIFIC SUMMIT A testament to Penang’s attractiveness as a BE destination.

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he highly anticipated dual conferences – ICCA Asia Pacific Summit 2019 and BE @ Penang 2019 – were officiated at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre.

They took place from December 5 and 6, marking a major milestone for both Penang and the Asia Pacific Chapter of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).

Winning the bid to host the inaugural ICCA Asia Pacific Summit concurrently with the fourth edition of Penang’s homegrown conference – BE @ Penang, the local organising committee was led by the organisers

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of BE @ Penang; Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and Anderes Fourdy Events.

Co-organising the summit was the ICCA Asia Pacific Chapter.

The dual conferences featured 40 speakers comprising of industry leaders from 20 countries and 300 delegates from the Asia Pacific and global business events industry.

Delivering the keynote address was James Rees, President of ICCA, while closing keynote was delivered by peak performance expert and international motivational speaker Robin Sieger.

Officiating the opening ceremony of the conferences were the Yeoh

Soon Hin (Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism, Arts, Culture & Heritage), Rees, Jason Yeh (ICCA Board of Directors and Chair of ICCA Asia Pacific Chapter), Ashwin Gunasekeran (Chief Executive Officer of PCEB), and Khoo Boo Lim (Chairman of Malaysian Association of Hotels – Penang Chapter).

“This year, the dual conferences feature 40 speakers who will answer burning questions and engage in pressing conversations on the themes of each of the conferences – Journey of Discovery and BE of the Future Now,” said Ashwin.

“I believe that through these dual conferences, we are able to further prepare ourselves for what is to come in the future, and to ensure

the sustainability of various tourism products that will further entice visitors to visit Penang through more experiential travel,” said Yeoh.

“We are here to witness our commitment and making the Summit a reality. In this regards it is my fervent hope that this Summit will be the platform for us to have ‘One Voice’ representing the Asia Pacific membership and send a positive message to the global ICCA community,” said Yeh. Joining the line of speakers for the dual conferences were notable industry leaders within the Asia Pacific business events industry like Gary Grimmer (GainingEdge), Antonio Codinach (PCMA), Keiko Nishimoto, CMP (Kyoto University Graduate

School of Management), Mike van der Vijver (Orange Gibbon), Roy Sheppard (PeoplePortfolio) and more.

The conferences were supported by 20 partners including Malaysia Airlines, The Meetings Show London, ICCA Malaysia Committee, Cycle and Carriage, Hotel Equatorial Penang, Olive Tree Hotel, Setia SPICE Convention Centre and more.

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News

KLCC, FIRST VENUE IN MALAYSIA TO PARTNER WITH FOOD AID FOUNDATION

The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre recently became the first venue in Malaysia to collaborate with Food Aid Foundation to connect surplus with the world of needs.

The foundation is a nongovernmental organisation that rescues surplus food and groceries and distributes it to people in need.

Under the partnership, KLCC will be providing its surplus food and raising awareness surrounding the importance of limiting food waste amongst its team members and the general public.

KLCC Deputy General Manager, John Burke said, “As the ‘People’s Centre’ and Malaysia’s premier purpose-built venue, we are a socially responsible organisation that operates our business in a sustainable manner. Giving our surplus food to those in need is something we have wanted to undertake for a while, but it hasn’t been possible until now.”

L-R: KLCC Executive Chef, Hisham bin Jaafar; KLCC Deputy General Manager, John Burke; KLCC General Manager, Alan Pryor and Food Aid Foundation Founder, Rick Chee.

He continued, “We look forward to growing this partnership and in the process hopefully improving the nourishment and well-being of those supported by Food Aid Foundation.”

KLCC is supportive of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) to transform the world, and its partnership with the Food Aid Foundation helps contribute towards goals 1, 2 and 12 – no poverty, zero hunger and responsible consumption and production respectively.

Thanking KLCC for their support, Food Aid Foundation Founder, Rick

Chee, said, “We also hope this collaboration will inspire other local venues and organisations to follow suit, as from our studies, we know that there is an abundance of surplus food in Kuala Lumpur that can most certainly be put to good use.”

In addition to this campaign, KLCC also works with qualified contractors to turn its organic waste into useful products.

For example, organic waste is processed into fish feed and used cooking oil is recycled into various by-products including soap stock.

MATRADE EXPOSES MALAYSIAN COMPANIES TO EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES AS UN VENDORS

The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) partners with United Nations (UN) to organise a talk titled “The United Nations Global Marketplace” as an initiative to expose Malaysian exporters to export opportunities around the world by becoming UN’s vendors.

The event marks the second partnership with the UN through UN Procurement Division (UNPD) since 2016. At the event, UNPD experts, Rury Molina and

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Mika Kitagami explain areas of opportunities for Malaysian companies in the UN’s global supply chain. Based on the first talk held in 2016, MATRADE saw an impressive increased in the numbers of Malaysian companies registered as vendors with the UN, from 287 companies in 2016 to 520 companies in 2018.

Realising this impact, MATRADE continued to organise the second edition. According to data, UN’s procurement from Malaysia have increased from US$21.48 million in 2016 to USD55.53 million in 2018.

According to MATRADE’s Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Wan Latiff Wan Musa, partnership with the

UN is crucial as it can be one of the ways to enhance market access for Malaysian companies offering sustainable products and services.

“There are strict requirements for companies to be part of the UN’s list of suppliers. We know that companies that are supplying to the UN are those offering good quality and reliable products that meet the sustainability standards.

In addition, these are Malaysian companies that are internationally certified.”

The talk is also in line with MATRADE’s Sustainability Action Values for Exporters campaign that was introduced in October 2019.

MITEC IS MALAYSIA’S 1ST ISO 22000:2018 CERTIFIED VENUE Just two years old, the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) has achieved certifications for its food safety that qualifies the venue as the first venue provider in Malaysia to be certified ISO 22000:2018.

In addition to that, MITEC also achieved the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification. The venue is certified ISO 22000:2018 and HACCP following a stringent audit by SGS, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification body.

SGS operates a network of more than 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world and is recognised as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. “It is a significant milestone for us as we are just over two years in operation and the certification strengthens our position in the business events industry and boosts our competitive edge to continue to offer world-class standard and

quality services to our clients,” said MITEC CEO Gunther Beissel.

“This demonstrates our commitment to overall catering excellence and assures our clients that the safety and quality of our food and beverage service are not compromised”.

ISO 22000:2018 is the latest global safety management system that enables organisations to control food safety hazards along the food chain in order to ensure that food is safe at the time of consumption. This standard replaces the old ISO 22000:2005.

HACCP certification is common

amongst international venues as a systematic preventive approach to food safety is practised at all stages of the food selection, preparation and production process.

ISO 22000:2018 and HACCP certifications are based around the four core established principles of receiving of food, storage, preparation and serving of food and drinks for functions banquets and at the food outlet (kiosk).

MITEC has also obtained halal certification for all its kitchens from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim).

BE SARAWAK WINS BRANDING AWARD Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) by Sarawak Convention Bureau won the BrandLaureate World BestBrands Award 2019 for ‘Nation Branding – meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE)’ late last year.

Conceptualised by The World Brands Foundation (TWBF), the award is designed to recognise corporations, non-government organisations, societies, institutions and individuals who have impacted the community at large.

BESarawak’s efforts of marketing and branding Sarawak as a preferred business events destination over several years has expanded to its brand new campaign – ‘Magnified Impacts of Your Business Events’ – that places the industry under the state’s seven key focus areas.

Under this campaign is the ‘Legacy Impact Programme’ that aims to drive social and economic transformations to social, business and government communities. The programme focuses on four pillars – advancing the field, community

benefits, economic outcomes and public policy – backed by 27 drivers. “Branding Sarawak as a reputable and capable business events destination has always been a challenge,” said BESarawak chairman Tan Sri Muhammad Leo Toyad.

“Now, we stand on the same league with global trends in expanding the impacts of business events from tourism economics to creating legacies and making valuable changes. “This will place Sarawak as a role model for second and third tier destinations.”

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News

MIFF 2020 RESCHEDULED TO JUNE 30-JULY 3 The Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) 2020 has been rescheduled from March 6-9 to June 30-July 3 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

According to organiser Informa Markets, the decision is taken with regret after careful consideration and close consultations with stakeholders.

There are a lot of uncertainties arising from travel disruptions and other circumstances due to concerns of the Covid-19 situation. Some countries have recently issued travel advisories and companies are restricting travel of their executives.

“In light of the constantly evolving situation, we have taken the difficult decision to reschedule the event. We appreciate the international buyers who had looked forward to attending the show in March and hope to have their continued support to attend on the new date.

“MIFF has built a global reputation over the past 25 years and serves buyers from 140 countries and regions. With the new dates, we will continue our work to generate more business opportunities for the show. Also, we offer our sincere sympathies to those who have been affected by the virus in China and other countries,” said Datuk Dr Tan Chin Huat, Founder and Chairman of MIFF. “The Covid-19 situation in Malaysia is under control.

The health situation is being managed by the Ministry of Health, National Disaster Management Agency and various other ministries and agencies under a

INFORMA MARKETS MALAYSIA HOSTS COVID-19 BRIEFING Informa Markets, the leading exhibition organiser in Malaysia, is supporting the government’s efforts to share factual and up-todate information on the Covid-19 situation in Malaysia with the business community.

It had organised a special briefing by Health DirectorGeneral Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah for stakeholders, including business leaders and representatives of diplomatic missions on February 12.

“This is an important part of our corporate responsibility to help provide clarity of the situation to our business partners to enable

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committee chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

“We have been adhering to the precautions and safety measures as recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and are taking their guidance and recommendations seriously. We understand the organiser of MIFF’s decision to reschedule the show due to the impact on international travels and other commercial considerations.

“It is my sincere hope that the delegates would benefit from the event and take the opportunity to experience Malaysia in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2020. On behalf of MyCEB, I look forward to welcoming all international buyers to Malaysia and wish all of you an enjoyable and fruitful event in June,” said Dato’ Sri Abdul Khani Daud, Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB).

MIFF is the biggest furniture trade show in Southeast Asia.

informed decisions and actions to be taken for business continuity,” said M.Gandhi, Group Managing Director (ASEAN Business), Informa Markets.

“We strongly support the government’s position that the response to this must be based on facts, science and authorised sources and not unverified postings on social media. We are happy by the attendance at the briefing, it indicates our partners are interested in getting the real and full picture of the virus situation, they need the information to decide on their next move.” Dr Noor Hisham said the situation was under control in Malaysia and the cluster of cases currently under containment did not amount to an outbreak.

“It is crucial that during times of crisis and uncertainty that we seek the truth and facts from valid and authorised sources. Each and every one of us must be responsible when sharing information.

“If the source and validity is dubious, it is better for us not to share. Up to date information on the Covid-19 situation in Malaysia is readily available on MOH’s official social media channels.

“Based on the Health Ministry’s most current assessment, the situation of Covid-19 infection is under control and in the early containment phase. The ministry will continue to strengthen preparedness for the possibility of the next phase i.e. late containment and subsequently, the mitigation phase.”

TOO MUCH AT STAKE FOR ‘WAIT-ANDSEE’ IN COVID-19 OUTBREAK, SAYS PCMA CHIEF With more than 70,000 people now confirmed to be infected by coronavirus (mostly in China) and 1,770 deaths recorded on the mainland, Beijing has tightened further its restrictions on movement in an attempt to contain the spread of the virus.

With the business events industry directly feeling the effects of the outbreak, industry association PCMA said the industry should not be taking a ‘wait-andsee’ approach in what it describes as a “global crisis”.

“There is simply too much at stake for our industry and for all those for whom business events and our overlapping industry sectors support their economic and social well-being. We must take a proactive role,” a PCMA statement on February 16.

PCMA President & CEO Sherrif Karamat said: “Informed by our PCMA community’s frontline experience with managing the business events industry’s response to health crises in Toronto (SARS) and Mexico (H1N1), we have begun to activate a plan in consultation with our partners.

“Our plan is anchored in the belief that business events must play a role in contributing to the solution – not the spread – of this crisis.

“That means business events, first and foremost, must step up efforts to keep their participants and their host communities safe in order to do our part to aid the global recovery.”

Karamat also noted the situation remained “very fluid” but said the PCMA remained resolute in its commitment to leading the global business events community, in collaboration with partners, through this crisis and forward into recovery.

He said PCMA has been in ongoing discussions with business events leaders in China to collaborate around the development of a plan. This will be based, in part, on learnings that came out of the SARS and H1N1 recovery plans.

THAI GOVT TO GIVE 200 MILLION BAHT OF RELIEF FUNDING TO BE SECTOR Thailand’s government has announced it will provide relief funding for the MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions) sector after it declined by half due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) and listed companies, will receive 200 million baht in cash incentives.

TCEB president said the stimulus package should draw demand from corporate customers, and the fiscal package already allows firms to deduct their expenses twice for organising meetings outside their province.

At least 100 corporate groups have joined the scheme.

The TCC and SET-

listed companies have pledged to boost the domestic market by encouraging the private sector to arrange more meetings in provinces.

TCC chairman and 10 chief executives of top Thai companies will participate in a pilot incentive trip to Pattaya for the Meeting in Thailand stimulus project on February 26.

The TCEB has prepared other campaigns aimed at potential

short-haul international MICE markets such as Hong Kong and Singapore for when the virus threat subsides.

Sumate Sudasna, president of the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association, said the international meetings and incentives market is down by half since the start of the year.

“Groups that are travelling in Thailand are here because it was too late to cancel the trip. After the crisis, this segment will take four to six months for full recovery because MICE requires more time for planning,” The impact of the coronavirus impact has been felt across the global MICE business.

The sector is especially sensitive to safety issues, rendering price strategies to retrieve confidence ineffective in most markets.

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Feature

MACEOS Covid-19 advisory In tandem with a recent advisory from MACEOS regarding proactive measures in response to the Covid-19, here are some FAQs for your information and to provide guidance to all business events industry players amid the outbreak.

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he information is derived from the guidelines issued by the Malaysian Health Ministry. The ministry has taken proactive and strong steps to manage and look after the health and welfare of all Malaysians and visitors.

At the same time, those in the business events (BE) industry should take proactive steps by preparing and advising clients appropriately.

The business events industry should balance between doing business together and looking after

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the wellbeing of clients, delegates, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, visitors and members of the public and keeping the authorities informed as and when needed.

For the latest update, please refer to the ministry’s website, call 03-8881 0200/600/700 or email cprc@moh. gov.my.

SHOULD I CANCEL MY EVENTS OR POSTPONE MY EVENTS? Based on current updates by the Malaysian government, there is no advisory from them concerning

the cancellation of events due to Covid-19. Should you or your client decide to consider either of the above options, our recommendation is to postpone the business event rather than cancel it. The final decision is based on your company and client’s own discretion.

SHOULD I OFFER REFUNDS TO DELEGATES, SPONSORS, EXHIBITORS AND VISITORS? The decision to cancel or postpone your event will be based on your company policy(ies) with your client(s), hence the same should be

exercised based on your policies and agreements.

WHAT PRECAUTIONARY STEPS SHOULD I TAKE FOR MY EVENTS? Work together with your venue operators to provide adequate signage to remind individuals to practice good personal hygiene, set-up adequate hand sanitisers and make available face masks in case individuals or staff have a need for it.

Venue operators should be providing increased level and frequency of cleaning services to maintain a high level of hygiene and cleanliness.

At this moment, the government has not issued any advisory that members of the public are required to wear face masks at all times.

There is also no advisory that temperature screening at public places is mandatory at this point in time.

WHAT SHOULD I TELL MY EMPLOYEES? If your employees experience any symptoms of the flu, they should be allowed to stay at home and work from home (if they are fit to) for 14 days and isolate themselves. They may refer to this guideline on how to care for themselves.

If an employee suspects he/she is infected with Covid-19 based on these symptoms, head to hospitals designated to screen for the disease.

Possible symptoms are: • Fever AND clinical sign/symptoms suggestive of pneumonia; or • severe respiratory infection with breathlessness AND has history of travelling to or residing in mainland China within the last 14 days; or • close contact with a confirmed case of Covid-19.

The designated hospitals for both screening and treatment of 2019-nCoV nearest to convention centres in Kuala Lumpur are: • Kuala Lumpur Hospital (Tel: +603-2615 5555) • University Malaya Medical Centre (Tel: +603-7949 4422) • Sungai Buloh Hospital (Tel: +603-6145 4333) WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE A SUSPECTED CASE OR CONFIRMED CASE THAT ATTENDED MY EVENT? If you are in Kuala Lumpur, refer the case directly to the nearest designated hospitals: • Kuala Lumpur Hospital

• • •

University Malaya Medical Centre Sungai Buloh Hospital The ministry has in place a system and protocol to look after all individuals who came in close contact with a confirmed case (following the definition of close contact guidelines).

HOW DO I MINIMISE THE IMPACT ON MY DELEGATES, SPONSORS, EXHIBITORS AND VISITORS? Assure your clients, delegates, sponsors, exhibitors and visitors that as a responsible event organiser and venue operator you are keeping abreast of the latest updates from the government and monitoring the situation closely.

You are also taking proactive measures to ensure the health of your delegates, sponsors, exhibitors and visitors and employees.

Above all, we should remain calm and base our decisions on scientific facts and wait for official announcements. Reiterate that Malaysia is a safe and conducive place to travel for business events as we do not want to discourage international attendees from travelling to our events.

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Vol. 2 I No. 2 I 2016

ISSN 2289-893X RM10

ISSN 2289-893X RM10

ISSN 2289-893X

PENANG, THE BUSINESS

CREATING QUALITY GRADUATES IN EVENTS MANAGEMENT

BRINGING MALAYSIA TO THE WORLD

EVENTS

PARADISE

Mae Ho Seok Khen, Executive Director/ Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Education Group

KDN No: PP 18673/03/2015(034147)

MATRADE CEO, Dato’ Dzulkifli Mahmud

MACEOS Industry Dialogue 2016

rAWr AWARDS 2015

00_Cover BE No1.indd 1

17/12/15 11:20 PM

Vol. 3 I No. 1 I 2017

Vol. 3 I No. 2 I 2017

ISSN 2289-893X RM10

ISSN 2289-893X RM10

ISSN 2289-893X RM10

BE

10/03/16 10:53 AM

VOl . 4 I N O. 1 I 2018 ISSN 2289-893X RM10

POWERED BY

BUSINESS EVENTS MALAYSIA

Y. Bhg. Datuk Seri J. Jayasiri, Secretary-General of MITI

Dean, School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts, Taylor’s University Mr A.R Neethiahnanthan

MoU: MACEOS and Taylor’s University The MACEOS Road Map KL Tourism Bureau

00_Cover BE No3.indd 1

TAKING THE MICE INDUSTRY TO NEW HEIGHTS

REPOSITIONING PWTC FOR THE 21st CENTURY

9/09/16 10:35 PM

Günther Beissel CEO of MITEC

BE

MAH, Penang Chapter:

Chairman, Khoo Boo Lim

00_Cover BE No2.indd 1

27/06/16 11:58 PM

VOl . 4 I NO. 2 I 2 0 18 ISSN 2289-893X RM10

POWERED BY

BUSINESS EVENTS MALAYSIA

MACEOS AGM

President re-elected for another term Outlines his plans to take MACEOS to the next level

BORNEO CONVENTION CENTRE KUCHING

The Catalyst for Business Events in Sarawak Eric van Piggelen CEO of BCCK

Datuk Shamsul Kamar bin Ahmad, CEO of PWTC, shares what’s in store for this iconic centre.

Business Events Forum

MACEOS Celebrates 25 Years:

What’s Ahead For The BE Industry

The Entrepreneurs Awards 2016

rAWr Awards 2017

Francis Teo, Malaysia’s Venue Expert

00_Cover BE.indd 1

PCEB:

The new KL Tourism Bureau

00_Cover BE.indd 1

Vol. 2 I No. 3 I 2016

READY TO HIT THE GROUND RUNNING!

YB Dato’ Abdul Malik Kassim, State Minister

CEO, Ashwin Gunasekeran

Malaysia Business Events Week 2015

WHY MALAYSIA IS NICE FOR MICE

PENANG IS THE PERFECT PICK

UFI Open Seminar

Celebrating The rAWr-ing Success Of The BE Industry 7/26/17 11:05 AM

BUSINESS EVENTS MALAYSIA is the official publication of the Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (MACEOS) which aims to promote and encourage the growth of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions (MICE) industry.

According to MyCEB, Malaysia has secured 1,255 business events over nine years, welcoming nearly 900,000 delegates and generating RM10.4 billion in economic impact.

As a destination, Malaysia has much to offer to attract a large portion of the MICE business that comes to this region. It is ranked among the top 10 destinations for MICE in Asia. BUSINESS EVENTS MALAYSIA magazine aims to reflect the growth and importance of MICE in Malaysia and in the region while pushing MACEOS into the position as the authority and voice in MICE related business and affairs in Malaysia and in the region.

CONTENTS OF BUSINESS EVENTS MALAYSIA: • NEWS A quick round up of events related to MACEOS and MICE, news of major conferences or meetings in Malaysia and the Asian region.

• FOCUS Issues regarding MICE in a particular country or policy changes that make for a better environment for MICE in the region.

• VENUES Focus on different MICE venues in the country.

• EXHIBITIONS Spotlight on some of the exhibitions held in the country and how the organisers pulled it off.

• MEETINGS AND INCENTIVE TRAVEL A look at a few such events in the country.

• CONVENTIONS A look at several high profile conventions.

• PERSONALITY PROFILE Spotlight on top people in the MICE industry in the country and in the region.

• CALENDAR Listing of events for the coming year with special relevance to MICE. • MACEOS This section looks at all the activities undertaken by MACEOS or under the aegis of MACEOS.

MACEOS Venue Industry Dialogue

Sharing insights & data collection to raise ranking of BE industry internationally

BE FORUM 2018 The New Frontier

Sarawak

Up-and-coming Business Events Destination

PUBLICATION DATES • FEB • MAY • SEPTEMBER

TARGET MARKET • The Business Community • Event Organisers • Hotels • Conference Centres • Builders • AV Suppliers • Freight Forwarders • MICE Related Businesses

DISTRIBUTION • MyCEB • All Ministries • MITI – local and overseas offices • Tourism Ministry – local and overseas offices • MIDA – local and oversea offices • Embassies and business chamber of commerce • MACEOS members • Major hotels and Malaysian Hotel Association • Sold in major bookshops nationwide

Advertising enquiries Harini Management Services Sdn Bhd (609031- W) W-9-12, Menara Melawangi, Amcorp Trade Centre, 18, Persiaran Barat, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Tel: +603-7932 3259

Creating global platforms for industries, specialist markets and customers to trade, innovate and grow

With a growing portfolio of 30 trade exhibitions in Malaysia, Informa Markets in Malaysia which is a division of Informa plc creates business growth opportunities for ASEAN and the rest of the world in a wide range of industries.

Furniture & Interiors Subcontracting Water & Wastewater Industrial Machinery

10 - 13 June 2020 | MITEC

23 - 25 June 2020 | MITEC

1- 4 Oct 2020 | KLCC

Security Construction Food Oil & Gas

23 - 25 June 2020 | MITEC

Hospitality Livestock Beauty Power

23 - 25 June 2020 | MITEC

23 - 25 June 2020 | MITEC

30 June - 3 July 2020 | MITEC

30 Nov - 2 Dec 2020 | KLCC

8 - 10 June 2021 | KLCC

Environmental Technology Renewable Energy HVAC

23 - 25 June 2020 | MITEC

1 - 4 Oct 2020 | KLCC

8 - 10 Sept 2020 | MITC, Malacca

21 - 24 Sept 2021 | KLCC

23 - 25 June 2020 | MITEC

19 - 21 Oct 2021 | PWTC

More information, visit www.informamarkets.com Tel: +603 9771 2688

Fax: +603 9771 2799

Email: info-my@informa.com

I.D.E.A - DEVELOPMENT

MACEOS Member Directory

MACEOS’ New Members (October 2019-February 2020) COMPANY

BUSINESS

COMPANY WEBSITE

Alpine Integrated Solution Sdn Bhd

Exhibition Organiser

www.aisgroup.biz

Aspiration Marketing & Events Event Management

https://www.facebook.com aspirationdotmy/

Bluewave Network Technologies Sdn Bhd

Technology Solution Provider

www.bluewavenetwork.net

BW Cyans Events Sdn Bhd

Exhibition Organiser

www.onemodernhome.com

CNN International Sdn Bhd

Event Management

www.mise.com.my

Danga Bay Convention Centre

Venue Operator

www.iskandarwaterfront.com

Glamour Mission Sdn Bhd

Associate Restaurant Food-Chain

https://grandimperial.com.my/

Hey Day Sdn Bhd

Exhibition Organiser

http://heyday.com.my/

Invent 360 Sdn Bhd

Event Contractor

https://www.invent360.com.my/

Langkawi International Convention Centre Venue Operator

https://www.langkawiconvention./ com

Moonman Events Sdn Bhd

Event Management

www.moonmanevents.com

Myth Production Sdn Bhd

Event Management

www.myth.com.my

Universal Dotz Asia Sdn Bhd

Event Management

www.unidotzasia.com

UOA Hospitality Sdn Bhd (known as Connexion Conference and Event Centre)

Venue Operator

www.connexioncec.com

VSMS Sdn Bhd

Contractor (Booth/Electrical)

www.vsms.com.my

Y Us Sdn Bhd

Technology Solution Provider and Management

www.evenesis.com

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BUSINESS EVENTS MALAYSIA