Sarawak made a significant impact at EVENTXPO 2024, held in conjunction with Malaysia Business Events Week. This inaugural event, organized by the Malaysian Association of Conference and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (MACEOS), provided a platform for Sarawak to highlight its innovative event legacy strategies. With twelve exhibitors from key cities like Kuching, Sibu, and Miri, Sarawak showcased its commitment to leveraging business events for long-term social and economic benefits. The participation is part of the broader Tribe Legacy Sarawak campaign, which aims to embed a legacy-focused mindset across the industry.
Strategic Importance of Event Legacy
Sarawak’s presence at EVENTXPO 2024 underscores the strategic importance of event legacy. The state has been actively promoting the long-term benefits of business events through its Legacy Impact Master Action Plan (Legacy MAP) 2023–2025. This plan focuses on monitoring, validating, and communicating the positive impacts of business events on the local economy and community. By participating in EVENTXPO, Sarawak aims to attract high-quality events that align with its legacy goals.
The CEO of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), Amelia Roziman, emphasized the significance of this initiative. She highlighted that the legacy impact extends beyond immediate economic gains, contributing to social progress and community development. The feedback from business event planners at EVENTXPO has been overwhelmingly positive, indicating strong interest in Sarawak’s legacy direction.
Collaborative Efforts and Exhibitors
Sarawak’s strategy at EVENTXPO involved a collaborative effort from various stakeholders. The exhibitors represented a diverse range of sectors, including venues, accommodations, and event management companies. Notable participants included the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, Hilton Kuching, and the Pullman Miri Waterfront. These exhibitors showcased Sarawak’s capabilities in hosting large-scale events and conferences, reinforcing its position as a premier business events destination.
The collaboration among exhibitors aimed to present a united front, demonstrating Sarawak’s comprehensive approach to event legacy. By working together, these stakeholders can create a more significant impact and attract a broader range of events. The strategic partnerships formed at EVENTXPO are expected to enhance Sarawak’s reputation and drive future growth in the business events sector.
Future Prospects and Vision
Looking ahead, Sarawak is poised to continue its efforts in promoting event legacy. The success at EVENTXPO 2024 has laid a strong foundation for future initiatives. The state plans to expand its Legacy MAP and explore new opportunities for collaboration within and beyond the business events industry. By embedding a legacy-focused mindset, Sarawak aims to create lasting benefits for its economy and community.
The vision for Sarawak is to become a leading hub for business events in the ASEAN region. This involves not only attracting high-profile events but also ensuring that these events leave a positive and lasting impact. The strategic roadmap set by MACEOS and supported by BESarawak will be crucial in achieving this vision. As Sarawak continues to innovate and adapt, it is well-positioned to lead the way in event legacy strategies.
