GEORGE TOWN – Penang has consolidated its hold as a preferred destination for business traveller functions after it recorded RM375 million from hosting up to 281 events last year.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said that the state is growing in strength as one of the major sites in the region to offer good facilities and services for the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry.
“It holds immense potential in contributing significantly to the economic growth of our state and nation.
“It also fosters the holistic development of the region and brings positive outcomes in a multitude of ways,” said Chow after attending the annual review of the Penang Conventions Exhibition Bureau performance.
In 2021, the estimated economic impact from MICE was just RM14.1 million.
Last year, it grew substantially, said Chow, adding that the launching of the 5G cellular telecommunications network will further boost tourism.
Penang sees huge potential in MICE – besides the opening of the Setia Spice International Convention Centre and the largest business hotel called Amari Spice, the state also saw the opening of the Penang International Convention, Cultural & Arts Centre, or also known as Butterworth Arena.
The Penang Waterfront Convention Centre is set to open in the first quarter of 2025 to further complement the MICE efforts, said Chow.
Chow lauded the contributions of state tourism executive councillor Yeoh Soon Hin and PCEB chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekaran for their leadership in steering the MICE industry forward in Penang. – The Vibes, April 11, 2023
