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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The show was held at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore from 14 to 15 April, with the Sarawak Pavilion bringing its “Driving Impact Together” brand promise to life by placing local enterprise at the centre, serving as a strategic showcase. 

Sarawak-based brands engaged international audiences, forged meaningful partnerships, and expanded their presence in new markets at the prestigious trade show. 

The decision to participate in TMS APAC was supported by a positive regional market backdrop, with strong growth across key Asia-Pacific markets, including Singapore, which recorded a 76.22% increase in visitor arrivals in February 2026. 

This momentum is further reinforced by Sarawak’s efforts to strengthen regional accessibility, including the establishment of AirBorneo, positioned as a strategic enabler to enhance connectivity, unlock new market access, and elevate Sarawak’s competitiveness within the Asia Pacific business events landscape.

“A clear regional strategy drives our return,” said The Honourable Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Deputy Minister for Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, who is leading the Sarawak delegation. “Asia Pacific is a priority growth market for us. Our participation at TMS APAC reflects our focus on engaging the right markets and strengthening partnerships that will support Sarawak’s long-term growth in business events.”

“We are witnessing a growing alignment between global demand and what Sarawak offers, from sector expertise to collaborative ecosystems,” said Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary and Chairman of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak). “Our presence at the show is about capturing that demand and translating it into sustained value for our industries and communities.”

“Sarawak is increasingly being viewed as a strategic partner of choice,” said Jason Tan Chin Foo, Acting Chief Executive Officer of BESarawak. “Our focus on legacy-driven business events, and our deliberate efforts to drive impact with stakeholders and communities, are driving our ambition forward as the legacy capital of business events in Malaysia and Borneo.”

As Sarawak continues to deepen its footprint in the Asia Pacific, its presence at TMS APAC reflects a clear ambition to move beyond visibility and towards value. At the heart of this approach is a united ecosystem that showcases the full strength of the destination.

The Sarawak Pavilion presented a cross-section of industry players from Kuching, Sibu and Miri — Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, Cat City Holidays, Grand Margherita Hotel, Kuching Events Rental, Miri Marriott Resort & Spa, Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, Pullman Kuching Hotel, Pullman Miri Waterfront Hotel, RH Hotel, Sheraton Kuching Hotel, Team Magnifico, Techno Expo, and voco Kuching by IHG.

The pavilion also expressed Sarawak’s identity through an experiential gastronomic journey. The Bibber’s Tale led as the official beverage partner, serving Sarawak’s iconic three-layer tea alongside handcrafted drinks made from native ingredients. At the same time, KANTIN, with a presence in both Kuching and Singapore, returned with the beloved Sarawak Laksa.

Together, this participation demonstrated how collaboration among different stakeholders and community players turns every engagement into an opportunity for lasting impact, aligned with Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.

For more information, visit:  www.businesseventssarawak.com. 

(Source: BESaawak)

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Following the success of the inaugural conference in Kuching in 2024, and in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the upcoming conference is expected to attract 1,000 delegates from across Southeast Asia. Organised by the Sarawak Tourist Guides Association in collaboration with the Malaysian Tourist Guides Council and supported by Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), the conference will serve as a strategic intervention to address challenges in the tourist guiding industry and enhance collaboration among tourism frontliners in Southeast Asia.

Under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, Sarawak targets a 7.5% annual growth in visitor arrivals by 2030. Achieving this will depend not only on attracting visitors but on delivering quality experiences. Tourist guides play a critical role in ensuring that this growth translates into real value, sustainability, and meaningful impact. However, the profession is facing increasing challenges, including the rise of digital and AI-driven travel tools, evolving visitor expectations, and a shortage of qualified guides.

“Sarawak is setting its sights on welcoming 5 million visitors by 2026 — but beyond the numbers, our priority is ensuring the quality of experience we deliver,” said Sarawak’s Deputy Minister for Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan. “Tourist guides are storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and the frontline of how our destination is understood and remembered. 

“Sustaining this growth requires a highly skilled, future-ready tourism workforce. That is why we are positioning this conference as a dedicated platform for learning and professional development, while accelerating the training of new Registered Regional Specific Tourist Guides and Sarawak Park Guides to build a strong, resilient talent pipeline for the future,” the Deputy Minister continued.

“The role of a tourist guide is becoming more demanding in a fast-changing, digital world. This conference focuses on strengthening regional networks and building meaningful collaborations to elevate the profession,” said Sarawak Tourist Guides Association Honorary Chairman Edwin Lim. “We have chosen Sibu as the host city to support inclusive tourism development, creating opportunities and sharing the benefits of tourism and business events across Sarawak. Through this, we aim to create impact beyond Sarawak and contribute to the growth of Malaysia’s and Southeast Asia’s tourism.”

“Business events today must deliver more than attendance. They must deliver impact,” commented BESarawak Acting Chief Executive Officer Jason Tan Chin Foo. “Regional collaboration among tourist guides is key to that impact. Through this conference, we are strengthening legacy outcomes and advancing a high-value tourism economy while positioning Sarawak as the legacy capital of business events in Malaysia and Borneo.”

As part of the conference programme, delegates will take part in an immersive outdoor learning experience, including a cultural exchange that offers firsthand insight into community-based tourism. This allows domestic and international tourist guides to understand better their role in preserving cultural identity and delivering respectful, authentic experiences.

The 3rd Southeast Asian Tourist Guides Conference 2026 is organised by the Sarawak Tourist Guides Association in collaboration with the Malaysian Tourist Guides Council, and supported by Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak). 

For more information, visit Sarawak Tourist Guides Association. 

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

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The message was highlighted during Business Events Sarawak’s (BESarawak) Ramadan engagement series in Kuala Lumpur, part of a broader initiative to strengthen partnerships with the national business events ecosystem, expand future bid pipelines, and position business events as a strategic driver of long-term economic and social impact.

The engagement also comes at an important moment as Sarawak enters the final phase of its development roadmap. As the strategy nears its end, working with industry partners across Malaysia will be key to turning strategic goals into real results for the industry and communities.

“The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, through Business Events Sarawak, remain committed to supporting organisations across the country that wish to bring impactful business events to Sarawak,” stated The Honourable Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Deputy Minister for Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, who represented the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, The Honourable Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah at the Kuala Lumpur engagement session.

“Collaboration has always been the driving force behind Sarawak’s success as a business events destination,” said Jason Tan Chin Foo, Acting Chief Executive Officer of BESarawak. “Through our legacy impact initiatives and comprehensive support for business event organisers, we aim to strengthen the contributions of every industry player and foster meaningful partnerships that deliver lasting legacies for Sarawak, Malaysia and beyond. Initiatives such as the Academic Mobility Programme also enable universities to organise study tours and technical visits to Sarawak, further connecting academia with industry and supporting our vision to position Sarawak as the Legacy Capital of Business Events in Malaysia and Borneo.”

The Academic Mobility Programme is a new initiative that enables universities to organise and host study tours and technical visits to Sarawak. The aim is to strengthen the bridge between research and local priorities, allowing students, researchers and academic institutions to engage directly with Sarawak’s industries, communities and development sectors.

About Business Events Sarawak  
Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) is a strategic advisor driving legacy impact through business events. As a Sarawak Government non-profit, we provide 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). More at www.businesseventssarawak.com. 

(Source: BESarawak)

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Through its Ramadan engagement series themed Satu Meja, Seribu Cerita, Sarawak is bringing together government agencies, associations, academia, industry leaders and media across Kuching, Sibu, Miri, Bintulu, Kuala Lumpur and Penang to reinforce collaboration, expand future bid pipelines, and position business events as a strategic driver of long-term economic and social impact.

The initiative marks a significant step in aligning industry stakeholders at a critical juncture of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, ensuring that business events continue to deliver measurable value beyond the visitor economy and contribute meaningfully to Sarawak and Malaysia’s broader development agenda.

“As we enter the final phase of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, this is a critical window for us to strengthen alignment across the ecosystem and sustain collaboration at its highest level. At this stage, a cohesive industry moving in the same direction matters more than ever,” said Sarawak’s Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, at the first Ramadan engagement in Kuching. = “Through BESarawak, we will continue to actively support organisers in delivering impactful business events in Sarawak by refining concepts, strengthening innovation, and aligning programmes with our broader development priorities We remain committed to working hand in hand with the industry to ensure that every stakeholder is empowered to contribute meaningfully and generate lasting outcomes for industries, communities, and the wider economy”.

Deputy State Secretary (Operation) and BESarawak Chairman Datu Hii Chang Kee commented: Over the next four years, we will be guided by three pillars to transform Sarawak into a business events destination of strategic value: transformation and innovation, legacy and impact, and partnerships and people,” said “This means stronger bid support, designing events with built-in legacy outcomes and closer collaboration with government, academia and industry stakeholders who can strengthen the overall impact.”

BESarawak Acting CEO Jason Tan Chin Foo noted: “Legacy impact remains central to our strategy. To achieve lasting impact, our ecosystem — government, associations, academia, industry, and media — must remain cohesive and aligned. Our collaboration must continue beyond the event so that the true value is sustained long after the event is held.” 

Sarawak’s focus on the ecosystem continues to deliver measurable results. In 2025, Sarawak recorded its strongest performance to date, with 160 business events scheduled through 2030, totalling a projected economic value of MYR483.5 million. Sarawak also hosted 159 business events in FY2025 alone, marking a 27% increase from the previous year and generating MYR491.4 million in total economic impact. 

For more information on BESarawak, visit: Business Events Sarawak. 

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

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