‘Improve the experience and everybody wins.’ — Dharmesh Shah
‘Focusing on the customer makes a company more resilient.’ — Jeff Bezos
Sarawak is quickly becoming a go-to global destination for meetings and conventions. The state has been hosting a wide range of international events and meetings, and it’s clear that they’re doing an outstanding job. They’ve managed to secure over 100 business events worth RM359 million for this year alone, surpassing last year’s record of 93 events with an economic impact of RM216 million. That’s a serious boost to both their reputation and their economy!
So, what’s the secret behind Sarawak’s success in the conference and meetings scene? Well, let’s start with its location. Sarawak’s strategic geographic spot offers a unique and exotic backdrop for conferences and meetings. When you can gather in a place that feels distinctive and exciting, it adds a whole new level of energy to the event. That’s why event organisers and participants are drawn to Sarawak, especially Kuching.
But that’s not all. Sarawak also has excellent facilities and accommodation to host these international events. You don’t have to go searching for a place to stay, and the venues are top-notch. They’ve made it incredibly convenient for everyone involved.
And let’s not forget about the icing on the cake – Sarawak’s cultural diversity and natural beauty. Event planners have been smart about incorporating local traditions and stunning landscapes into conferences. It’s like getting a taste of the local culture while you work, and it creates an unforgettable experience. The infusion of local flavour into these events leaves a lasting impression on participants.
But here’s the real secret sauce: it’s the well-structured and proactive policies and initiatives that have truly set Sarawak apart. These actions have brought in the results. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and the state government deserve big credit for steering Sarawak in the right direction. They’ve transformed Sarawak into a powerhouse for conferences and meetings, and it’s paying off big time.
Let’s take a look at some of the international events that Sarawak has successfully secured for this year, including the International Primatological Society Congress, the International Conference on Child and Adolescent Psychopathy, the International Council of Educational Media Conference, The World Innovation, Technology, and Services Alliance (WITSA) 27th World Congress, Malaysian Business and Entrepreneurs Forum 2023, 17th ASEAN Food Conference (AFC 2023), 54th Asia Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health Conference 2023, and Congress of the Federation of Asian Veterinary Association (FAVA) 2023. And let’s not forget that Sarawak will also be hosting the Iwa World Water Congress in 2028, expected to attract participants from 80 countries.
It’s crystal clear that Sarawak has gone all-in to ensure it stands out as a destination for international events. Here are some of their impressive moves:
First off, they established Business Events Sarawak (BE Sarawak) and launched the Bid Fund Programme, which offers financial support to lure in a diverse array of international events. It’s like rolling out the red carpet and offering organizers a deal they can’t refuse.
Sustainability is another key aspect of Sarawak’s approach to event hosting. They’ve made it a priority and aligned with the global trend of being eco-conscious. They have policies in place that encourage eco-friendly practices during conferences, making event planners happy and positioning Sarawak as a responsible and forward-thinking destination. And with their lush rainforests and pristine beaches, they have some breathtaking venues for eco-friendly events. Mother Nature approves!
Infrastructure is also a big deal. Sarawak has invested heavily in world-class convention centres and facilities. Just look at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) as an example. It’s a prime illustration of how they’re keeping up with the best in the world. State-of-the-art amenities and top-notch technology – they’ve got it all covered. These investments ensure that Sarawak remains a fierce competitor in the global events industry, providing top-quality facilities for organisers and attendees.
But wait, there’s more! Due to the roaring success and growing demand for conference and business event facilities, Sarawak is raising the bar even higher. They’re currently building BCCK Two, and this is no ordinary expansion. It’s set to be one of the world’s largest single-floor timber structures, covering a whopping 15,500 square meters under one roof, with a breathtaking clear span of 42 meters. This project isn’t just about hosting events; it’s about propelling Sarawak’s engineered timber industry and bringing significant economic growth to the region.
To make a long story short, it appears that Sarawak is showing the world how it’s done when it comes to hosting international events. They have a winning strategy, a commitment to sustainability, and top-notch infrastructure, and they’re continuously building for a bigger and better future. Sarawak is making a name for itself as a global hotspot for conferences and meetings.
Sarawak is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse indigenous communities, and stunning natural landscapes. The state is home to several national parks, including Bako National Park, Gunung Mulu National Park, and Niah National Park, which offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, hiking, and caving adventures.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Sarawak is Kuching, the capital city, which is known for its charming riverside setting, colonial architecture, and vibrant street markets. Visitors can explore the historic Fort Margherita, visit the Sarawak Museum to learn about the state’s history and local culture or take a stroll along the Kuching Waterfront, where they can find food stalls, souvenir shops, and enjoy scenic views of the Sarawak River.
Sarawak is also famous for its longhouses, and the traditional communal dwellings of the indigenous communities, such as the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu. Many longhouses welcome tourists, offering a unique opportunity to experience the local way of life, participate in traditional activities, and taste authentic local cuisine.
The state’s cultural diversity is showcased during various festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most significant festivals is the Rainforest World Music Festival, held annually in Kuching. This internationally acclaimed music festival brings together musicians from around the world to celebrate and showcase traditional and contemporary music rooted in the rainforest.
For nature lovers, Sarawak offers breathtaking natural wonders. Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its vast cave systems, including the Sarawak Chamber, the largest cave chamber in the world. The park is also home to unique limestone formations, pristine rainforests, and diverse flora and fauna.
Sarawak is a treasure trove of biodiversity, with numerous opportunities for wildlife encounters. Visitors can go on wildlife cruises along the Kinabatangan River, where they may spot proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and pygmy elephants. Borneo’s iconic orangutans can also be observed at the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre near Kuching or the Matang Wildlife Centre.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Sarawak is gaining recognition as a hub for business events and conferences, as mentioned earlier. With its world-class facilities and proactive initiatives, Sarawak has successfully positioned itself as an attractive destination for international meetings and conventions.
All in all, Sarawak offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, making it a captivating destination for travellers seeking diverse experiences in Malaysia.
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DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
