The programme prepares local industry players with the knowledge and skills to support Sarawak’s growing portfolio of high-value national and international events.

Co-organised by Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) and the Miri Business Events Committee in collaboration with the Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (MACEOS) Sarawak Chapter, BEAP addresses the growing demand for future-ready professionals who can strengthen service delivery and raise industry standards.

Held at Mercure Miri City Centre from 14 to 16 July 2026, the Miri edition was the first of two BEAP sessions planned for the year. Participants learned to manage the full event lifecycle, from concept development and financial planning to on-site delivery and post-event evaluation. They also explored the practical application of artificial intelligence to deliver more efficient and innovative event solutions.

Jason Tan Chin Foo, Chief Executive Officer of BESarawak, said developing the industry was essential to Sarawak’s long-term competitiveness.

“Miri possesses the strengths to become a leading business events destination in northern Sarawak. As Malaysia’s pioneering oil and gas city, supported by its diverse tourism offerings and dynamic business ecosystem, Miri has significant potential to attract high-value conferences, corporate meetings and exhibitions. Through BEAP, we are investing in local talent by equipping industry professionals with the skills, confidence and capabilities to deliver world-class business events. This investment in people will strengthen Miri’s competitiveness, unlock new economic opportunities and reinforce Sarawak’s position as a premier business events destination.”

BEAP in Miri also supports MACEOS’ national commitment to making professional development more accessible to industry practitioners across Malaysia. Lim Win Nee, Vice President of MACEOS Education, said: “MACEOS’ priority is to ensure that professional development is accessible to industry practitioners across Malaysia. Bringing this programme to Sarawak supports our commitment to raising national industry standards, strengthening local capabilities and developing a future-ready talent pipeline. By investing in people across every region, we strengthen not only Sarawak’s business events ecosystem but also Malaysia’s overall competitiveness as a destination.”

BESarawak’s capacity-building initiatives are helping Sarawak-based businesses and event professionals build the skills needed to support the destination’s growing business events industry, especially with AirBorneo’s planned regional routes from 2026.

The next BEAP will take place from 11 to 13 August 2026 at Tanahmas Hotel in Sibu.

For more information on BESarawak, visit Business Events Sarawak.

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

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Street festivals in Tokyo and Yokohama

In Tokyo, Shibuya Bon Odori is a thrilling summer festival that sees hundreds of brightly dressed dancers take to the streets of Shibuya – famed for its iconic pedestrian crossing. This August, urban explorers can experience this upbeat occasion at Best Western Hotel Fino Tokyo Akasaka or Best Western Hotel Fino Tokyo Akihabara, a choice of modern hotels in two of the capital’s most dynamic downtown districts. In nearby Yokohama, the Minatomirai Dai Bon-Odori is staged at the end of August in Rinko Park, overlooking the city’s famous waterfront. Whilst enjoying two days of exciting activities, revellers can rest and relax at Best Western Hotel Fino Shin-Yokohama, which is just a five-minute walk from JR Shin-Yokohama Station.

Captivating Cultural Occasions in Osaka and Nagoya

Rooted in Japan’s Shinto rituals, Tenjin Matsuri is celebrated every summer in Osaka and features colourful street parades, river-boat processions and dazzling firework displays. Visitors can enjoy this three-day extravaganza at a choice of three Best Western hotels: Best Western Osaka Tsukamoto, a contemporary property just moments from JR Tsukamoto Station, Best Western Plus Hotel Fino Osaka Kitahama, which offers elevated stays close to the Tosahori River, and Best Western Hotel Fino Osaka Shinsaibashi, a newly revitalised hotel in the beating heart of Osaka, close to City Hall. A short 50-minute bullet-train ride away in Nagoya, the Nippon Domannaka Matsuri features approximately 20,000 dancers performing in original costumes inspired by the city’s heritage. Located in the lively Sakae district, Best Western Plus Nagoya Sakae is surrounded by the festivities.

Endless summer refreshment in Hokkaido

In the northern island of Hokkaido, the annual Sapporo Summer Festival runs for almost a month during July and August. Sapporo’s Odori Park transforms into a vast urban dance arena and beer garden, with live performances and plenty of refreshments from the city’s famous breweries. Just a short drive from Sapporo, Best Western Plus Fino Chitose Hotel is a full-service hotel with modern rooms, a restaurant, a fitness centre and great transport links, putting Hokkaido’s many summertime attractions within easy reach.

Tropical island festivities in Fukuoka and Okinawa

Japan’s southern islands transform into tropical paradises every summer, with plenty of attractions and activities for culture-seeking explorers. On Kyushu Island, the city of Fukuoka bursts into life with the Nogata Summer Festival, featuring spectacular floats, stage performances, and dramatic fireworks. Surrounded by stylish bars and cafés, Best Western Plus Fukuoka Tenjin-minami lets travellers feel the pulse of this waterfront city. Finally, in Okinawa, Japan’s exotic island jewels, the Nago Summer Festival features food stalls, traditional eisa dancing and live music – wonderful to watch whilst strolling in a summer kimono. When the time comes to unwind, guests can escape to a choice of beachfront hotels: Best Western Resort Okinawa Kouki Beach, where every room offers a balcony with ocean vistas, and Best Western Okinawa Onna Beach, a low-rise resort nestled on a white sand bay.

There’s no better time to experience Japan’s colourful festivals, local traditions and diverse destinations. From vibrant city escapes and island retreats to scenic countryside adventures, travellers can explore the country while staying at Best Western hotels. To book your stay with BWH Hotels in Japan, visit bestwesternasia.com.

(Source: Your Stories — BWH)

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This was emphasised by The Honourable Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, during a courtesy visit by Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) led by its Chairman, Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary (Operations), together with BESarawak’s Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer Jason Tan Chin Foo.

During the meeting, BESarawak briefed the Minister on the industry’s latest progress, upcoming international events and strategic initiatives to strengthen Sarawak’s position as the legacy capital of business events in Malaysia and Borneo.

“The strong growth of Sarawak’s business events industry reflects what can be achieved through collaboration,” said The Honourable Dato Sri Abdul Karim. “As we prepare for larger international events and expanded infrastructure, our priority is to strengthen partnerships across the business events ecosystem while continuing to enhance Sarawak’s tourism and hospitality capabilities so every event delivers exceptional delegate experiences and greater value for our economy and communities.”

Meanwhile, BESarawak Chairman Datu Hii Chang Kee said BESarawak’s success is driven by strong collaboration between the business events industry and key stakeholders, including ministries, government agencies, associations, and private-sector partners, to strengthen Sarawak’s business events ecosystem.

“Sarawak is welcoming more regional and international business events every year, and that reflects the strong support and collaboration across the business events ecosystem,” said Datu Hii. “As we prepare for BCCK2 and major events such as the International Water Association (IWA) World Water Congress & Exhibition 2028, we must continue working together to ensure these opportunities bring lasting benefits to Sarawak. We are grateful to the Sarawak Government, as well as our tourism, hospitality and industry partners, for their continued commitment to growing the sector.”

BESarawak Chief Executive Officer Jason Tan Chin Foo said collaboration has become increasingly important as Sarawak prepares for a new phase of industry growth.

“Beyond attracting events, BESarawak will continue connecting organisers with government, industry and academia so that every conference creates meaningful economic, social and intellectual outcomes. We will also continue supporting the industry through capacity-building initiatives, strategic partnerships and innovative programmes that strengthen local capabilities and ensure every business event contributes to Sarawak’s long-term development.”

The courtesy visit reaffirmed the shared commitment between the Sarawak Government and BESarawak to strengthen collaboration across the business events ecosystem, ensuring Sarawak continues building a resilient, future-ready industry that supports the destination’s development aspirations under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.

For more information on BESarawak, visit: Business Events Sarawak 

(Source: Your stores — BESarawak)

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An Indian national, Sushil joined Asian Trails in 2025 with a wealth of international experience and more than a decade at Thomas Cook India, where he rose through senior management to become Senior Vice President, IT Applications.

 During that time, he worked closely with Asian Trails, gaining first-hand knowledge of the company’s culture, values and people. This experience provided an ideal foundation for his appointment as Group CTO in 2025.

For a DMC operating across 10 countries, each with unique challenges, Sushil believes one of Asian Trails’ greatest strengths is its technology team working behind the scenes to keep everyone connected.

He said: “Each destination has its own way of doing business. With a dedicated tech team, we are in the position to bring everyone together and ensure we are working consistently across the group.”

By working closely with colleagues throughout the region, the tech team helps simplify processes and ensure every office has access to the same tools and support, thereby improving efficiency and enabling Asian Trails to focus on what it does best — creating exceptional travel experiences.

An important focus during his first year has been strengthening the existing cybersecurity systems and policies. As data has become one of the world’s most valuable assets, more systems and services have moved online, exposing organisations to growing risks from cybercrime, fraud and attempts to steal sensitive information.

He said: “We are developing our existing security policies across the group. Previously, security measures were in place in different pockets across our units, but we are now moving towards a more centralised approach.

“This means our security governance, protective software and policies designed to safeguard our systems will all be managed at a group level, ensuring a consistent approach across Asian Trails.

“A stronger cybersecurity culture is essential to protecting not only company systems but also the trust that clients and partners place in Asian Trails every day.”

Technology alone is not enough. Sushil highlighted that employee awareness is equally critical, with regular training sessions held to help staff recognise potential threats such as phishing and online fraud.

While sustainability is embedded in Asian Trails’ DNA, with a directive to promote more sustainable products and services, Sushil said his immediate focus, and that of the technology team, is on strengthening the company’s digital foundations, creating the platform for technology to support broader environmental initiatives in the future.

He said: “As the company continues its digital transformation, initiatives such as reducing paper-based processes, expanding digital workflows and improving operational efficiency have the potential to complement the company’s wider sustainability strategy.

“For now, however, the emphasis is on building a strong technological foundation that will enable future advances in both business performance and responsible operations.”

Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be one of the travel industry’s biggest talking points, but for Asian Trails it is already a practical business tool. Under Sushil’s leadership, the company has embarked on a significant AI programme, investing in several pilot projects designed to improve operational efficiency and enhance the service it delivers to clients and partners. This is a work in progress.

The focus is on real-world applications that reduce repetitive manual tasks, shorten response times and enable teams to manage increasing volumes of enquiries, bookings and administrative processes more effectively.

He said that AI will not replace the personalised service for which Asian Trails is renowned. Instead, the company is adopting a ‘human in the loop’ approach, ensuring that every AI-generated recommendation or action is reviewed and overseen by experienced staff.

Looking ahead, Sushil sees AI as a tool that will empower employees rather than replace them. By handling routine, time-consuming tasks, AI will free teams to focus on what they do best – building relationships, creating exceptional travel experiences and providing the expert local knowledge that has long been the hallmark of Asian Trails.

He is already focusing on the company’s next stage of digital transformation. Among the initiatives on the horizon are the development of a dedicated mobile application and the digitisation of the extensive portfolio of brochures and travel products.

For more information on Asian Trails, visit: Asian Trails. 

(Source: Your Stories — Asian Trails)

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The pilot runs across four days of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) 51^st World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2026), through to 31 July, in partnership with the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry (Institut Kimia Malaysia), Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), The Waterfront Hotel Kuching and Conference Partners Asia. 

With more than 800 delegates attending, it will test whether food waste management practices can be integrated into a major international conference without compromising the delegate experience — a live case study anticipated to become a model for future business events in Sarawak.

A first step toward certification

BESarawak aims for the pilot to earn The Pledge on Food Waste Certification, an international standard for measurable food waste prevention and diversion. Measures will be integrated across both venues — BCCK, the main conference site, and The Waterfront Hotel Kuching, where the gala dinner will be held this week — covering menu planning, portion management, and recovering surplus ingredients where food safety permits. Every stage of the pilot will be logged in a compliance platform and independently assessed, with results shared publicly once the congress concludes.

For the Sarawak Government, this initiative demonstrates its commitment to embedding sustainability into economic development through practical, measurable action. 

“This initiative is proof that Sarawak’s business events sector can lead by example, developing practical solutions that support a circular economy and encourage more responsible consumption. It is the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 in action, showing that economic growth and environmental responsibility can move forward together in Sarawak’s business events industry,” said Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary (Operation) and Chairman of BESarawak.

For the Institute, the initiative demonstrates that sustainability should be reflected not only in scientific research, but also in the way international scientific conferences are organised.

“Scientific excellence must be matched by responsible action. We are proud to work with our partners to show that meaningful sustainability can be integrated into business events, and we hope this inspires delegates and future scientific meetings to adopt more sustainable practices,” said Datuk ChM Dr Soon Ting Kueh, President of IKM and Advisor for the 51st IUPAC World Polymer Congress (MACRO 2026).

For BESarawak, the ambition extends beyond the single congress.

“Achieving The Pledge on Food Waste Certification will prove that sustainable food waste management can be built into large-scale business events successfully. More than that, it will give future conferences a practical model to follow — setting a new benchmark for sustainable business events in Sarawak,” said BESarawak Chief Executive Officer, Jason Tan Chin Foo.

The ‘Zero Food Waste to Landfill’ initiative also supports three UN Sustainable Development Goals: Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Climate Action (SDG 13) — positioning Sarawak’s business events sector within a global sustainability framework.

For more information, visit: Business Events Sarawak. 

(Source: BESarawak)

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As demand for premium travel continues to rise, with the market projected to grow from an estimated USD1.6 trillion in 2025 to USD3 trillion by 2033, WorldHotels is strengthening its network through branded residences, immersive outdoor hospitality, wellness retreats and distinctive independent hotels in sought-after destinations worldwide.

“Every addition to the WorldHotels portfolio represents more than growth; it represents a shared commitment to excellence,” said Ron Pohl, President of WorldHotels. “Independent hotel owners are increasingly seeking partners to help them compete without compromising the character and authenticity that sets their properties apart.

Spotlight: WorldHotels’ developments in Asia

Essensia Sky and Parkway Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: This project marks WorldHotels’ inaugural entry into high-end residential living, featuring 74 villas and 424 apartment units set to open in September. It’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering elevated living experiences in bustling urban areas.

WorldHotels Long Beach Resort, Phu Quoc, Vietnam: This beachfront resort offers a luxurious island experience amid the stunning landscape of Phu Quoc. It reflects the brand’s focus on combining leisure with natural beauty.

Ecoland Hotel, WorldHotels Elite, Jeju Island, South Korea: Marking WorldHotels’ debut in South Korea, this contemporary luxury retreat emphasises nature-inspired design and premium amenities. It’s aimed at travellers seeking relaxation and immersion in their surroundings.

Resort Country Club, WorldHotels Distinctive, near Manesar, India: Positioned just outside New Delhi, this resort blends upscale leisure with recreational activities, including championship golf, introducing WorldHotels to India’s burgeoning premium hospitality market.

To support its expanding luxury portfolio, BWH Hotels continues to strengthen commercial resources for WorldHotels properties through its dedicated Upscale & Luxury Worldwide Sales division, connecting independent hotels with high-value corporate and leisure travel opportunities.

For more information about WorldHotels, visit WorldHotels’ development website.

About WorldHotels
WorldHotels is a privately held hotel soft brand within the BWH Hotels global enterprise. Founded by independent hoteliers dedicated to the art of hospitality, WorldHotels offers one of the finest portfolios of independent hotels and resorts worldwide, expertly curated to inspire unique, life-enriching experiences that connect people and places. WorldHotels comprises five unique collections, each with its own personality and style to appeal to the needs of today’s traveller, from elevated oceanfront resorts and upscale city hotels to wellness retreats and glamping accommodations. The collections include: WorldHotels Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Crafted, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Backdrop. For more information, visit WorldHotels.com. 

About BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels is a leading global hospitality enterprise comprising three hotel companies — WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories, with 18 brands across every chain-scale segment, from luxury to economy. BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. 

For more information, visit bwhhotels.com. 

(Source: Your Stories — WorldHotels)

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The opening represents the next chapter of the company’s long-term premium growth strategy, strengthening its position in the luxury hospitality sector while supporting Krabi’s emergence as one of Asia’s most desirable quiet luxury destinations.

Building on the success of Centara Reserve Samui, the new resort reflects the company’s continued investment in high-value travel experiences designed for today’s affluent global travellers. As demand for authentic, immersive luxury travel continues to grow, Centara sees significant long-term potential in Thailand’s luxury tourism sector, driven by longer average stays, higher average daily rates (ADR), and discerning travellers seeking meaningful, destination-led experiences.

“We believe Thailand has every ingredient to be recognised among the world’s leading luxury destinations, from its rich culture and exceptional hospitality to its breathtaking natural beauty and world-class service. The opportunity now is to create hospitality brands that are equally distinctive on the global stage. Through Centara Reserve, we are redefining modern Thai luxury by bringing together experience-led travel, cultural authenticity and a genuine sense of place. The launch of Centara Reserve Krabi marks another significant milestone in our long-term strategy to strengthen our premium portfolio while helping elevate Thailand’s position in global luxury hospitality,” said Michael Henssler, Chief Operating Officer, Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Reserved for truly iconic destinations, Centara Reserve is designed around meaningful cultural connections, personalised service and immersive local experiences. The brand responds to a growing shift in luxury travel, where affluent guests increasingly value authenticity and human connection over traditional definitions of luxury. According to the American Express Global Travel Trends Report, 59% of affluent travellers define luxury through meaningful human interactions rather than material indulgence.

The Reserve journey began with the opening of Centara Reserve Samui in December 2021, introducing a new interpretation of Thai luxury centred around storytelling, cultural immersion and personalised hospitality. Unlike many luxury brands, Reserve was designed not only for couples but also for families, offering multi-generational luxury experiences that remain rare within the premium hospitality market.

Since opening, Centara Reserve Samui has established itself as one of Thailand’s leading luxury resorts, setting a new benchmark for personalised, experience-led hospitality while validating Centara’s long-term vision for the Reserve brand. The resort earned 28 international awards, consistently maintaining a perfect five-out-of-five Tripadvisor rating and delivering strong commercial performance. In 2025, the resort recorded a 7.5% year-on-year increase in revenue, supported by continued ADR growth, demonstrating the commercial success of Centara’s luxury strategy.

An Investment in the Future of Thai Hospitality

The transformation of the former Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi into the world’s second Centara Reserve represents a significant investment in the future of Thailand’s luxury hospitality industry.

Located at the exclusive Pai Plong Bay, the fully reimagined resort has been carefully designed to meet evolving demand for experience-led luxury while capitalising on Krabi’s growing appeal among high-value international travellers. With increasing demand for premium leisure travel, longer average visitor stays and strong ADR potential, Krabi has emerged as one of Thailand’s most promising luxury destinations.

“Centara Reserve Samui is where the Reserve story began – a place where timeless island living and personalised service came together to redefine modern Thai luxury. Centara Reserve Krabi is where the story becomes even more immersive, shaped by dramatic landscapes, deeper cultural connections and an extraordinary sense of place,” said Neil Li, Corporate Director of Operations – Centara Reserve & The Centara Collection and General Manager of Centara Reserve Samui. “Every aspect of the resort has been thoughtfully developed to deliver a contemporary luxury experience that resonates with today’s affluent travellers while celebrating the warmth and authenticity that define Thai hospitality.”

Krabi: Thailand’s Emerging Quiet Luxury Destination

Home to some of Thailand’s most iconic seascapes, including Railay Bay and Maya Bay, Krabi is renowned for its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs. Combined with its rich Southern Thai heritage and a naturally slower pace of life, the destination offers a compelling alternative to more established resort markets.

Unlike its neighbour Phuket, Krabi has retained a more intimate atmosphere, making it increasingly attractive to travellers seeking privacy, authenticity and meaningful experiences. This positions the destination strongly within the global “quiet luxury” travel trend.

Centara Reserve Krabi

Set within a secluded beachfront cove accessible by boat, Centara Reserve Krabi will feature 120 elegantly designed rooms, suites and pool villas ranging from 75 to 388 square metres, alongside lagoon pools, Reserve Spa Cenvaree and three restaurants and three bars, including the renowned Salt Society Beach Bar & Kitchen.

Every stay will be thoughtfully curated through personalised welcome rituals, locally inspired experiences and bespoke itineraries led by dedicated Reserve Hosts, creating authentic connections between guests and the destination.

Looking ahead, Centara continues to explore opportunities to expand the Reserve brand into other iconic destinations across Thailand and internationally. While the first two Reserve properties are beachfront resorts, Centara also sees long-term potential to introduce the Reserve brand into gateway cities, including Bangkok, as well as selected destinations in Japan and Europe.

For more information about Centara Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

(Source: Your Stories — Centara Hotels & Resorts)

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From refined island retreats and immersive family escapes to world-class marine experiences and romantic adults-only getaways, these recognitions celebrate the experiences that continue to inspire and resonate with travellers from around the world.

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection, nestled in the breathtaking South Ari Atoll, has earned three prestigious international accolades during the past quarter, further strengthening its reputation as one of the Maldives’ most distinctive island retreats. The resort was named one of the Best House Reefs in the Maldives at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026, recognising its extraordinary marine environment within the South Ari Marine Protected Area, home to vibrant coral ecosystems and year-round whale shark encounters.

Further enhancing its global recognition, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection was honoured with the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Award 2026, placing it among the top one per cent of hospitality listings worldwide. This distinguished recognition celebrates properties that consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences and receive outstanding traveller reviews over the past twelve months. The resort also received the Booking.com Traveller Review Award 2026, achieving an impressive guest review score of 9.2, reflecting guests’ continued appreciation for its immersive island experiences, attentive hospitality, and exceptional natural surroundings.

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, an elegant island retreat in the heart of North Malé Atoll, has received the Booking.com Traveller Review Award 2026, achieving an outstanding guest review score of 9.1. Having welcomed its first guests recently, this recognition reflects the resort’s commitment to delivering exceptional service, elegant all-villa and residence accommodation, elevated culinary experiences, and thoughtfully curated stays. Redefining barefoot island hospitality in the Maldives, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives offers a refined approach to contemporary island living, where understated elegance, personalised service, and authentic Maldivian surroundings come together to create memorable guest journeys.

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, nestled in North Malé Atoll, has been recognised among the Best Resorts for Families at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026. Inspired by an underwater world of discovery, the resort has quickly established itself as one of the Maldives’ leading family destinations, offering spacious family-focused villas, one of the country’s most engaging water complexes featuring a lazy river, waterslides, and splash zones, alongside the signature Candy Spa, Kids’ Club, E-Zone, and thoughtfully designed experiences created to bring families together.

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, nestled in North Malé Atoll, has once again been recognised with the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2026, celebrating its continued commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for travellers from around the world. Reserved exclusively for adults, the resort is renowned for its tranquil overwater villas, exceptional dining experiences, vibrant house reef, and idyllic location just a short speedboat journey from Velana International Airport. Combining effortless island living with refined experiences, Centara Ras Fushi remains a sought-after escape for couples, honeymooners and friends seeking tranquillity and connection.

Francesco Pompilio, Cluster General Manager of Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection and Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, shared: “These recognitions are especially meaningful as they celebrate the authentic experiences our guests cherish and the dedication of our colleagues who bring them to life every day. From the remarkable marine environment surrounding Machchafushi Island to the serene adults-only setting of Centara Ras Fushi, each resort offers a distinctive expression of Maldivian hospitality. We are proud to see these unique offerings recognised by our guests and by internationally respected travel organisations.”

Jorge Fernandez, Cluster General Manager of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives and Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, shared: “These recognitions affirm our belief that today’s travellers are seeking experiences with purpose, authenticity, and individuality. Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives was created to redefine refined barefoot hospitality through personalised service, intuitive luxury, and thoughtfully curated experiences. At the same time, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives has introduced a new benchmark for family travel by combining imaginative recreation with meaningful connections across generations. To see both resorts recognised so early in their journey is a testament to the strength of their distinct positioning and our team’s unwavering commitment to delivering experiences that genuinely resonate with our guests.”

These latest accolades further strengthen Centara Hotels & Resorts Maldives’ position as one of the destination’s most celebrated hospitality portfolios, where every resort offers a unique perspective of the Maldives while sharing a common commitment to exceptional service, authentic experiences, and heartfelt Thai-inspired hospitality.

For more information about Centara Hotels & Resorts and its award-winning properties, visit https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 92 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Nepal, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.

(Source: Your Stories — Centara Hotels & Resorts)

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The collaboration with the Events Industry Council (EIC) represents a strategic investment in Sarawak’s business events ecosystem, industry capabilities, and long-term competitiveness at a time when sustainability has become one of the most important priorities shaping the global business events sector.  

“As part of our strategic pillars of People and Partnerships, as well as Sustainability Leadership, we believe that investing in talent is investing in the future of the industry,” said Deputy State Secretary (Operation) and Chairman of BESarawak Datu Hii Chang Kee.

“Through SEPC, we are building a common language and understanding of sustainability across the business events ecosystem while equipping industry players with the tools to create long-term impact beyond the event itself, in line with Sarawak’s legacy-driven direction.”

The agreement between Business Events Sarawak and the Events Industry Council (EIC), signed at IMEX Frankfurt 2026, marks another milestone in Sarawak’s commitment to advancing sustainable business events.

“What makes SEPC important is that it is not only about making events greener. Sustainability can be integrated into decision-making, operations, partnerships, measurement, and long-term impact creation across the entire business events ecosystem,” stated BESarawak Chief Executive Officer Jason Tan Chin Foo. “We are proud to collaborate with the EIC to make this capacity building programme accessible to our industry partners across Sarawak as part of our efforts to strengthen professional development and support the broader aspirations of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.”

“Through initiatives like SEPC, we are strengthening industry capabilities while advancing Sarawak’s vision for sustainable economic growth, environmental responsibility, and inclusive community impact,” he added.

As international organisations, associations, and event owners place greater emphasis on sustainability standards and responsible event delivery, the need for skilled professionals with recognised expertise has become increasingly critical. Through SEPC, industry players in Sarawak will gain access to internationally recognised training and practical knowledge covering sustainable event planning, social impact, supply chain management, accessibility, measurement, reporting, and responsible business practices.

“From the Events Industry Council’s perspective, Sarawak is demonstrating the kind of forward-thinking leadership we hope to see more of globally. Investing in professional education through the SEPC shows a genuine commitment to raising industry standards and empowering the local ecosystem with internationally recognised sustainability practices,” said Events Industry Council President and Chief Executive Officer Amy Calvert.

For more information on events in Sarawak, visit Business Events Sarawak. 

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

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Drawing inspiration from the resort’s lush tropical setting and spectacular 360-degree house reef, the refurbishment spans several signature accommodation categories, including Beach Residences, Overwater Pool Villas, and Overwater Pavilions. 

Throughout, the refreshed interiors introduce a lighter, more contemporary aesthetic while preserving the spacious layouts and relaxed atmosphere guests have long appreciated. Updated furnishings, renewed timber ceiling finishes, and contemporary lighting combine to create a brighter, more inviting atmosphere that reinforces the resort’s connection to its tropical surroundings while reflecting a modern expression of Dusit’s Thai heritage.

Selected villas have seen layout adjustments, while others retain their familiar sense of space, ensuring returning guests can enjoy a renewed experience without losing the comfort and character they know.

“Many of our guests return to Dusit Thani Maldives year after year because they value the resort’s natural beauty, generous sense of space, and warm Thai-inspired gracious hospitality,” said Dusit International Area General Manager, Maldives, Jean-Louis Ripoche.

“These enhancements allow us to preserve everything guests already love while introducing a fresher, more contemporary expression of the resort. Whether discovering the resort for the first time or returning for another stay, guests can now enjoy an even more refined and relaxing island experience.

The villa refurbishment marks an important milestone in Dusit Thani Maldives’ wider enhancement programme, which is designed to continually elevate the guest experience while preserving the resort’s distinctive character. Further guest-focused enhancements, including updates to selected dining spaces, are planned from Q3 2026 onwards, with the wider programme scheduled for completion in Q3 2027.

Alongside the physical enhancements across the resort, Dusit Thani Maldives has also introduced a refreshed website, making it easier for guests to explore accommodation options, discover experiences, and plan personalised stays before they arrive.

“Exceptional hospitality extends well beyond a guest’s stay,” said Mr Ripoche. “From the moment they begin planning their visit to the lasting memories they take home, we want every interaction with Dusit Thani Maldives to reflect the warmth, care, and gracious hospitality that define the Dusit experience.”

Located just a short journey from Malé by seaplane, domestic flight, or speedboat, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a blend of natural beauty, wellness, dining, and meaningful island experiences. Guests can snorkel directly from the island’s house reef, explore the rich marine life of Baa Atoll, enjoy treetop wellness journeys at Devarana Wellness, and discover a variety of curated experiences across the resort.

For more information, visit dusit.com/dusitthani-maldives.

(Source: Your Stories — Dusit International)

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