Building on Sarawak’s strong industry foundation and international reputation, discussions focused on the next phase of growth and how business events can create greater value for the destination through economic opportunities, knowledge exchange, industry development, investment and benefits for local communities. 

During the visit, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, said the Sarawak Government’s continued support strengthens the industry’s ability to build on its progress. 

“Sarawak has built a strong international reputation in business events, strengthened by our focus on legacy-driven outcomes. We are now seeing that translate into more events and wider opportunities for local businesses and industries. With the Sarawak Government’s continued support for the industry, we are well positioned to build on this progress, attract bigger opportunities and ensure the benefits extend across more sectors and communities in Sarawak as competition across ASEAN grows.” 

The discussion during the visit highlighted infrastructure, venue and accommodation capacity, and air connectivity as important factors in strengthening Sarawak’s ability to attract larger and more diverse international and national business events. The events and tourism industries are also encouraged to explore creative ways for Sarawak’s growing range of venues and facilities to complement one another in supporting conventions, exhibitions, corporate meetings and incentives, performances and other major events.

With Borneo Convention Centre Kuching 2 (BCCK2) in progress and improved air connectivity through AirBorneo, the discussion also highlighted the opportunity for Sarawak to tap into and drive more business events and tourism from across the wider Asia Pacific region.

Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary (Operation) and Chairman of BESarawak, emphasised the importance of stronger collaboration and coordination to ensure business events contribute to Sarawak’s wider development.

“As the industry grows, our role in connecting business events more closely with PCDS 2030 becomes even more important. With a growing pipeline of larger events addressing globally relevant issues across industries, we need to consider how each opportunity can contribute to Sarawak’s broader priorities, whether through investment, talent development, industry growth, knowledge exchange, or international partnerships.”

“This is where stronger coordination becomes essential. Government agencies, industry and institutions need to work together so that when these events come to Sarawak, we are ready to maximise the opportunities and benefits they can create for the destination.”

This direction builds on Sarawak’s growing focus on legacy impact, with business events increasingly used to create long-term benefits through knowledge, innovation and partnerships.”

Jason Tan Chin Foo, Chief Executive Officer of BESarawak, said BESarawak is clear about how it intends to build on the strengths of the past two decades.

“With the strong support of the Sarawak Government, we are excited about the next phase of growth. We have built significant momentum over the years, and our focus now is to use that momentum strategically by being intentional about the events we pursue, strengthening Sarawak’s business events ecosystem, and creating more value from every opportunity we secure.”

“As Sarawak advances towards the goals of PCDS 2030, BESarawak will continue to strengthen the alignment between its business events pipeline and Sarawak’s priority sectors, creating more opportunities to bring knowledge, innovation and partnerships that support Sarawak’s broader development.”

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

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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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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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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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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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Having served the organisation in various leadership capacities over the past decade, Jason now leads BESarawak into its next phase of growth with a vision to strengthen Sarawak’s position as a globally competitive business events destination through purposeful collaboration, innovation and legacy-driven development. 

“I believe the world’s most impactful business events destinations are built on strong ecosystems and meaningful collaboration among government, industry, academia, associations and the media. That is how ideas and partnerships are transformed into action, creating opportunities that strengthen our economy, communities and future,” said Jason.

“Sarawak has built strong foundations over the years,” he added. “I aspire to bring these strengths together into a more connected and future-ready business events ecosystem by strengthening collaboration, aligning our collective capabilities, and creating an environment where innovation, partnerships and opportunities can thrive.

Together, we will strengthen Sarawak’s global competitiveness, deepen international partnerships, and advance the aspirations of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 through high-impact business events that generate lasting economic, social and intellectual value, ensuring every event leaves a strong and meaningful legacy for Sarawak, while reinforcing our position as the Legacy Capital of Business Events in Malaysia and Borneo.”

Deputy State Secretary (Operation) and Chairman of BESarawak, Datu Hii Chang Kee, said Jason’s appointment reflects both continuity and confidence in the bureau’s future direction.

“Jason has consistently demonstrated strategic leadership and a strong commitment to advancing Sarawak’s business events industry. The Board has every confidence that he will build on BESarawak’s strong foundations and achievements, further strengthen the organisation and the wider business events ecosystem, and lead the industry towards an even more impactful and globally competitive future for Sarawak.”

He has played an instrumental role in advancing Sarawak’s business events industry through strategic destination development, international bidding, industry advocacy, legacy initiatives and stakeholder engagement. Since joining BESarawak in 2012, he has held key leadership positions across Business Development, International Event Bidding, Research, Marketing and Communications, contributing significantly to Sarawak’s emergence as one of Asia-Pacific’s leading business-events destinations.

About Business Events Sarawak 
Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) is a strategic advisor driving legacy impact through business events. As a Sarawak Government non-profit, the agency provides advice, support, and services to develop and host impact-driven events that deliver lasting value. The business events industry is a key contributor to Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), with BESarawak trusted to facilitate outcomes that support Sarawak’s sustainable growth and advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). For more information, visit www.businesseventssarawak.com. 

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

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The event brings together industry leaders, policymakers, developers, startups, investors, researchers and students to explore the next phase of digital transformation across Borneo and ASEAN.

Organised by the Kuching Blockchain Technology Association (KBTA) in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak and Metadise Sdn Bhd, BBCON 2026 builds on the momentum of its debut edition, which welcomed more than 600 delegates, 30 speakers and participants from 12 countries. With continued support from Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) and Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), this year’s conference reflects a growing shift from awareness and exploration towards implementation, collaboration and real-world adoption.

Carrying the theme “From Vision to Execution: Building Secured Digital Future,” BBCON 2026 will focus on enabling digital transformation through Trusted Digital Infrastructure, Artificial Intelligence and Post-Quantum Cryptography. The conference aims to encourage stronger collaboration across industries and institutions while supporting practical applications of emerging technologies in areas such as finance, healthcare, public services and enterprise systems.

BBCON 2026 is expected to attract over 1,000 regional and international delegates through a more immersive, execution-focused programme that combines strategic discussions, technical knowledge sharing, startup engagement, and investment opportunities, designed to translate ideas into real-world implementation.

Over two days, participants can expect:

• Keynotes and fireside chats with government and industry leaders
• Plenary sessions on digital infrastructure and emerging technologies
• Panel discussions on cross-border payments, central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), tokenisation and digital assets
• Sector spotlights on blockchain applications in healthcare and public services
• Technical deep dives on Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZK) and data privacy
• Startup, builder and talent pitching opportunities connecting innovators with investors and strategic partners
• Networking opportunities designed to encourage collaboration and investment
• Invitation-only roundtables involving regulators, policymakers, financial institutions and ecosystem leaders
• A closing synthesis introducing the Kuching Declaration aligned with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) and the 13th Malaysia Plan

“As Sarawak advances its digital economy agenda under PCDS 2030 and the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, platforms such as BBCON 2026 play an important role in fostering innovation, collaboration and talent development. By bringing together government agencies, industry leaders, researchers, entrepreneurs and technology practitioners, we can encourage greater knowledge exchange, strengthen our digital ecosystem and create new opportunities for sustainable growth and innovation,” said Dato Dr Anderson Tiong Ing Heng, General Manager of Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA).

As blockchain technology continues to reshape cybersecurity and digital trust, it is important to create platforms that encourage knowledge sharing and informed discussions around its societal impact. Business events serve as powerful catalysts for these conversations, helping to build capabilities, inspire innovation and support Sarawak’s aspirations as a digitally progressive economy,” said Jason Tan Chin Foo, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak).

“BBCON 2026 reflects how the conversation around blockchain and emerging technologies is evolving from awareness into implementation,” said Gan Beng Yoke, President of Kuching Blockchain Technology Association (KBTA). “This year’s edition is designed to encourage stronger collaboration between industry, academia, government agencies, startups and investors, while creating more opportunities for innovation, talent development and real-world adoption across the region.”

Additional information on BBCON 2026, including speaker announcements, programme highlights, registration and ticketing updates, will be made available through the official conference website in the coming weeks. The conference welcomes participants across industries and sectors who are interested in exploring the future of trusted digital technologies, innovation and regional collaboration. Participants are also encouraged to connect, exchange perspectives, and join conversations that shape the evolving digital landscape.

For more details and the latest updates, visit: https://www.borneoblockchain.com/  

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

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The masterclass equips practitioners with the knowledge and tools to use AI responsibly and effectively, strengthening the quality, accuracy, and impact of business events journalism.

Through this collaboration, BESarawak, KDJA, and CJA are promoting continuous professional development to support a future-ready media industry and enhance journalists’ ability to report on issues that matter to Sarawak’s development, including the impact of business events.

“The masterclass reflects our commitment to our core value of driving impact together. Continuous learning and knowledge-sharing are essential in building a stronger media ecosystem that supports the growth of the business events industry,” said BESarawak’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Jason Tan Chin Foo.

“Equipping media practitioners with emerging technologies is important to ensure stories about business events continue to create meaningful outcomes for communities. It also helps stakeholders better understand the role business events play in advancing Sarawak’s economic growth, knowledge development and long-term aspirations.”

KDJA President Ronnie Teo said journalists should embrace AI as a tool that supports, rather than replaces, professional judgement.

“We need the media community to move beyond ‘churnalism’ and leverage AI to support deeper research, stronger storytelling and more meaningful journalism. AI literacy will help journalists uncover important issues, tell compelling stories, and serve the public interest more effectively,” said Teo.

“We are pleased to collaborate with BESarawak and CJA in providing opportunities for Sarawak’s media practitioners to upskill and stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.”

Meanwhile, CJA Sarawak Branch President Nancy Nais said the masterclass was designed to help journalists use AI strategically in their daily work.

“Beyond the technology itself, this masterclass is about investing in the future of our media community. As the industry evolves, journalists need the confidence and skills to use AI effectively while upholding the principles of accuracy, credibility and public trust,” she said.

“By building AI literacy, we are helping media practitioners remain relevant, competitive and better equipped to deliver quality journalism that serves communities across Sarawak.”

With the media playing a vital role in Sarawak’s business events ecosystem, this masterclass forms part of BESarawak’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration and enhance journalistic capacity among industry stakeholders. It also supports Sarawak’s aspiration to become a knowledge-driven destination that embraces innovation and delivers long-term impact through business events.

For more information, visit: Business Events Sarawak. 

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

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Held from 19 to 21 May 2026 at Messe Frankfurt, IMEX Frankfurt is one of the world’s leading business events trade shows, bringing together global meeting planners, association leaders, convention bureaus, and industry suppliers from around the world.

Building on years of international engagement, Sarawak is shifting beyond destination promotion towards strategic industry development and long-term impact through business events. This vision is supported by major investments in infrastructure and connectivity, including the upcoming expansion of the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK2) and the introduction of Sarawak’s regional airline, AirBorneo.

Expected to be completed in 2028, BCCK2 will significantly increase Sarawak’s capacity to host larger international conventions and exhibitions. At the same time, AirBorneo and the continued growth of international hotel brands will strengthen regional accessibility and further enhance Sarawak’s business events ecosystem.

Held under the theme “Driving Impact Together”, Sarawak’s participation at IMEX Frankfurt reflects its commitment to collaboration, sustainability, innovation, and legacy-driven development, aligned with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).

While Sarawak’s conventions and exhibitions strategy focuses on creating long-term legacies through knowledge exchange, industry advancement, and social impact, BESarawak is also introducing “Legacy Wonders”, its fresh approach to corporate meetings and corporate incentive travel in Sarawak.

Built on the pillars of culture, adventure, nature, gastronomy, wellness, and kindness, “Legacy Wonders” offers corporate meetings and incentive delegates meaningful, immersive experiences that foster deeper connections with Sarawak’s heritage, environment, and communities. Through cultural immersion, community engagement, and responsible travel, delegates are encouraged to contribute to and experience the positive legacies being created across the destination.

Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) Chairman Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary (Operations), said Sarawak’s presence at IMEX Frankfurt is no longer just about destination visibility.

“Our focus today is on encouraging the global industry to contribute to the PCDS 2030 through meaningful collaboration and long-term growth opportunities,” said Datu Hii.

“Sarawak has evolved beyond being a host destination to becoming a strategic destination partner that collaborates with organisers to maximise the long-term value and impact of their events. This includes supporting legacy and sustainability initiatives, measuring impact, and creating opportunities for investment, innovation, sector growth, and wider industry collaboration. Through this approach, business events can contribute meaningfully to the PCDS 2030 and the broader United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” he added.

Sarawak is also strengthening its support ecosystem through initiatives such as the Academic Mobility Programme (AMP), which connects universities, industry players, and international partners through technical visits, study exchanges, and knowledge-sharing opportunities aligned with the state’s priority sectors.

“These initiatives reflect how Sarawak is strengthening its position as the legacy capital of business events through investments in both hard and soft infrastructure, while creating opportunities for different groups to contribute to community wellbeing and long-term development. Programmes such as AMP also provide platforms for academia and industry experts to channel their research, knowledge, and expertise into Sarawak’s priority sectors, driving meaningful collaboration and long-term impact across the destination,” said  BESarawak Acting Chief Executive Officer Jason Tan Chin Foo.

Leading the Sarawak Pavilion delegation at IMEX Frankfurt, BESarawak was joined by exhibitors representing the state’s business events and tourism ecosystem: Borneo Adventure, Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, Cat City Holidays, Mercure Miri City Centre Hotel, Pullman Kuching Hotel, Pullman Miri Waterfront Hotel, and Wah Tung Travel. The pavilion will also feature local F&B partners, The Bibber’s Tale and the Culinary Heritage and Arts Society Sarawak (CHASS), showcasing Sarawak’s rich culinary heritage to the global business events community.

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

(Source: BESarawak)

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Scheduled for 23 to 26 March 2028 in Kuching, in conjunction with World Tuberculosis Day, the conference is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates from across the Asia Pacific (APAC) region, generating an estimated total economic impact of MYR8.2 million. It will be the first time APRC is hosted in Borneo and the second time in Malaysia since Kuala Lumpur in 2007. 

Tuberculosis remains one of the world’s most urgent public health challenges, driven by the rise of drug-resistant strains, delayed diagnoses, treatment adherence gaps, persistent stigma, and unequal access to healthcare. Across the Asia-Pacific, the diversity of healthcare systems further complicates coordinated control efforts. 

In Sarawak, efforts to strengthen early detection and access to care are already underway, including the adoption of portable handheld X-ray technology by the Bintulu Divisional Health Office to enhance tuberculosis screening, particularly in reaching underserved and remote communities. However, scaling these efforts across the region requires stronger collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange.

APRC 2028 will respond to this need by bringing together global and regional leaders to accelerate practical solutions in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, while strengthening partnerships across borders and sectors.

“APRC 2028 directly supports Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, where healthcare is not only about treatment, but about equity and inclusion. The Sarawak government’s support towards APRC 2028 is our commitment to ensuring that Sarawak’s healthcare system is inclusive, accessible, and leaves no one behind,” said 

Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, Sarawak, Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian.

“Better prevention and control of tuberculosis and other lung diseases require strong collaboration between government, academia and communities to improve access, strengthen awareness, and build trust. This is critical in addressing stigma, ensuring people feel safe and supported to seek early diagnosis and treatment.” 

“We want to bridge science, policy, and practice for a tuberculosis-free future and better lung health for all, hence the APRC 2028 will feature a large-scale programme with workshops, plenaries, symposiums, and community outreach sessions to include all segments of society. We believe that everyone – government, associations, industry, academia and local communities – can be advocates for a tuberculosis-free future,” said the Organising Chairman of APRC 2028 and member of the Malaysian Association for the Prevention of Tuberculosis (MAPTB), Prof Dato Dr Abdul Razak bin Abdul Muttalif.

“Winning APRC 2028 reflects Sarawak’s growing reputation as the legacy capital of business events in Malaysia and Borneo,” said Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) Acting Chief Executive Officer Jason Tan Chin Foo. “With strong government backing under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 and BESarawak’s legacy framework, we are committed to ensuring that APRC 2028 delivers meaningful legacy outcomes. By convening global experts and stakeholders, the conference will catalyse advancing solutions to critical health challenges, particularly tuberculosis, while contributing to long-term development goals aligned with national priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.” 

APRC 2028 is organised by the Malaysian Association for the Prevention of Tuberculosis (MAPTB) in collaboration with the Sarawak State Health Department, Malaysian Thoracic Association, the Anti-Tuberculosis Association of Sarawak (ATAS), and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). APRC 2028 is supported by the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Sarawak and Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak).

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

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

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