Interview with Tourism Malaysia

Post date: Jun 12, 2012 3:26:55 AM

(Originally published in 2008)

When considering destinations for corporate meetings and conferences, Malaysia cannot be ignored. While lacking the exotic and cultural allure of destinations like Bali or Phuket, Malaysia does possess excellent MICE venues be it in big cities, beach or highland resorts. The popular destinations in Malaysia for MICE are Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu.

MICEreview talks to Kamilia Hani Abdul Halim, Acting Senior Assistant Director of Convention Division for Director-General, Tourism Malaysia, on the incentives for holding events in Malaysia and the challenges ahead for Malaysia’s MICE industry.

What makes Malaysia attractive as a MICE venue?

Malaysia offers state-of-the-art convention and meeting facilities, easy accessibility, efficient transportation system, world-class accommodation, value for money, diverse cultural attraction, warm and hospitable people and proven track record of hosting major international MICE events. In 2006, Malaysia hosted a total of 3,418 international conventions, attracting 820,243 foreign delegates. For 2007, between January and June, we have already recorded 544,697 convention arrivals.

What are some of the problems facing Malaysia as a MICE destination?

With the development of MICE industry in neighbouring countries, the demand for MICE professionals is very high. Hence, like other countries, we are also encountering issues such as shortage of skilled manpower, education and training in the MICE industry. To be more competitive in bidding for international events, we also need more cooperation amongst MICE suppliers so that they can commit their support to the organizers.

How do Tourism Malaysia make it easier for organizers to hold events here?

Under the Meet & Experience Malaysia Truly Asia campaign, we offer a host of benefits to make it convenient for event organizers to hold their event here. We can add value and convenience to organizers through benefits such as:

• Supply of souvenirs or giveaway items,
• Hosting of cultural shows at the opening ceremony or social evenings,
• Provision of tourist information service at event venue,
• Facilitating Customs and Immigration clearance.

Tourism Malaysia is in the midst of seeking the necessary approval from the authority to establish the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau. The bureau will help to further boost the MICE industry in Malaysia by going aggressive in researching for leads to bid for more international conventions and other MICE events into Malaysia and also to promote the brand Malaysia as a preferred MICE destination in the region.

MICEreview thanks Ms Abdul Halim for the interview. For more information, visit: www.tourism.gov.my