Tourism Western Australia and Business Events Perth launch a joint framework targeting high-value national and international events, with hundreds secured in 2025–26 expected to generate more than $394.9 million in direct delegate expenditure.

Western Australia has launched a new five-year strategy to strengthen its position in the national and international business events market, placing greater emphasis on attracting high-value events, extending delegate stays and spreading visitor expenditure across the State.

The Western Australian Business Events Strategy 2026–2030, developed jointly by Tourism Western Australia and Business Events Perth, establishes a coordinated framework for growing the sector and maximising its contribution to tourism and the wider economy. Its vision is to establish Western Australia as a world-class destination for vibrant and distinctive business events that inspire delegates to explore more of the State.

The strategy is built around two overarching goals: Attract and Win and Maximise Visitation. These will be pursued through five strategic pillars: WA Awareness, Event Prioritisation, Optimise Venues, Enhance Events and Industry Capability. Together, they are intended to raise Western Australia’s international profile, target events that align with its strengths, improve its venue offering, develop industry expertise and create experiences that encourage delegates to extend their visits.

The launch follows another strong year for Business Events Perth, which directly secured hundreds of national and international business events during the 2025–26 financial year. Scheduled to take place in Western Australia through to 2030, these events are expected to generate more than $394.9 million in Direct Delegate Expenditure and deliver over 320,000 hotel room nights.

The results underline the sector’s existing economic significance. According to Tourism Research Australia, total business events expenditure in Western Australia exceeded $1.71 billion in 2025, providing a substantial foundation for the State’s next phase of growth.
 

Aligning business events with economic priorities

The new strategy positions business events as more than a source of visitor expenditure, emphasising their potential to connect Western Australian industries with international markets, showcase local expertise and attract investment.

Premier and Minister for Tourism, Trade and Investment Roger Cook said the State’s industrial strengths and visitor experiences provided a basis for competing more effectively for high-value events.

“Western Australia has the industries, expertise and experiences to be a strong competitor for high-value business events. The Business Events Strategy will attract the right events, growing visitation and showcasing WA to national and international audiences, as well as attracting the decision makers driving increased trade and investment for our State, advancing my government’s economic diversification agenda, creating more local jobs for Western Australians.

“Business Events Perth’s 2025–26 results show the strength of opportunity that lies within our business events sector, with hundreds of events secured through to 2030 expected to generate nearly $400 million in Direct Delegate Expenditure for the State.”

This economic dimension is reflected in the strategy’s planned areas of activity. Western Australia intends to pursue flagship events that align with its priority industry sectors, strengthen international relationships and marketing, and support aviation connectivity. The framework also identifies the activation of major events, greater regional dispersal and stronger partnerships across government, industry and academia as priorities.

These measures are designed to connect destination marketing and event acquisition with broader economic development objectives, while encouraging delegates to experience more of Western Australia beyond the principal event location.
 

A coordinated approach to competitiveness

For Business Events Perth, the strategy provides a framework for aligning public-sector priorities with the work of the business events industry, particularly as destinations compete internationally for conferences, conventions and other high-value gatherings.

Business Events Perth Chair Bradley Woods AM said the approach would help maximise both the immediate and wider benefits of hosting such events. “This Strategy provides a clear framework for government and industry to strengthen Western Australia’s position in the global business events market and maximise the value these events deliver for the State.

“Business events generate significant visitor expenditure, while also connecting our industries with national and global networks, showcasing WA’s capability and investment opportunity while encouraging delegates to explore more of the State.”

The strategy also aligns with the Western Australia Visitor Economy Strategy (WAVES) 2033, placing business events within the State’s longer-term tourism development framework. Tourism Western Australia, Business Events Perth and industry stakeholders will use the new plan to coordinate their efforts and reinforce Western Australia’s competitiveness in the domestic and international markets.

With hundreds of events already secured for delivery over the coming years, the challenge now is to translate that pipeline into sustained visitation, stronger regional economic benefits and lasting connections between Western Australia’s industries and the global business community.
 

Find out more about the strategy here
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok has become the first convention centre in ASEAN to receive ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, strengthening its information security systems ahead of a major period for international events, including the 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings in October.

The certification applies to QSNCC’s Information Security Management System (ISMS) and covers key elements of the venue’s technology infrastructure, including its Data Center and core IT systems, identity and access management, and wired and wireless internet services provided to customers.

The assessment was carried out by BSI Group (Thailand) Co., Ltd. ISO/IEC 27001:2022 is the international standard for information security management and provides a structured framework for protecting information through risk management, control measures and continuous improvement. Its three core principles are confidentiality, integrity and availability of systems and services.

For a convention centre, those requirements increasingly extend into the operational infrastructure underpinning an event. Connectivity, access systems and the availability of digital services can affect how organisers, delegates and suppliers interact with a venue throughout an event, making information security part of the wider event delivery environment.

Surapol Utintu, CEO of Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, said the certification provides confirmation that the venue's underlying systems have been developed according to international standards.

“As ASEAN’s first convention center to receive ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, this is another important confirmation of the readiness of our back-end systems, which have been developed in line with international standards. Technology and digital systems have become an increasingly important part of event operations. This is particularly true for international conferences that rely on IT systems and network connectivity throughout the event. Information security is therefore not simply about preventing data breaches. It also means maintaining data integrity and ensuring that systems and services remain continuously available.”

At QSNCC, the certification encompasses the systems and services supporting its core IT environment, with the centre placing particular emphasis on the confidentiality and integrity of information and the continuous availability of its services.

The venue will put those capabilities to a significant test when it hosts the 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings from 12 to 18 October. The international gathering will require reliable IT systems and network connectivity not only for QSNCC's own operations, but also for internet services used by participants throughout the event.

Utintu also stressed that the certification is intended to reflect an organisation-wide approach rather than a purely technical upgrade.

“Strengthening IT systems and data security goes beyond technology. It requires people, processes, technology, and infrastructure to work together as one system. Receiving ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification is part of building a strong IT foundation, ensuring that QSNCC’s systems and services are secure and ready to serve. This enables us to support event organizers across a wide range of event formats, particularly international events and large organizations that require both efficient systems and rigorous data protection,” Surapol added.

The ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification adds to a wider portfolio of management and sustainability standards already held by QSNCC. These include ISO 9001 for quality management, ISO 22000 for food safety management, ISO 20121 for sustainable event management and ISO 14064-1 Carbon Footprint for Organization (CFO), covering the measurement, reporting and verification of greenhouse gas emissions.

The venue says these standards require regular assessment and continuous improvement, supporting the ongoing development of its IT systems and infrastructure as technology changes. Its wider programme covers management systems, people, technology, data security, service quality, environmental responsibility and sustainability, with the stated objective of meeting the evolving requirements of the MICE industry.

The certification therefore places information security alongside quality, food safety, sustainability and carbon management as part of QSNCC's broader operational framework for hosting international events.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Photos kindly provided by HKTB

Hong Kong used its debut at the Monaco Yacht Show, held from 23 to 26 September, to strengthen its positioning as a destination for yacht tourism, marine business and luxury events, while presenting the city as a gateway to opportunities across the Greater Bay Area, mainland China and the wider Asian market.

The presence at the world's leading superyacht exhibition formed part of the three-year Strategic City Partnership between the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and Informa Markets. It was also the first stop in a global promotional roadshow designed to connect Hong Kong with yacht owners, marine industry leaders, luxury brands, investors and high-net-worth travellers.

At the show, the HKTB joined the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, Airport Authority Hong Kong and AsiaWorld-Expo to present a combined proposition built around tourism, aviation, business events and international trade.

For Anthony Lau, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Monaco Yacht Show offered a particularly relevant international audience.

"The Monaco Yacht Show brings together the world's most influential players in the yachting industry and provides an ideal platform for Hong Kong to tell its story to a highly valuable international audience. Beyond being a world-class destination, Hong Kong serves as a super-connector and super value-adder, uniquely linking global businesses, investors and brands with opportunities across the Greater Bay Area, the Chinese Mainland and Asia.

With a vibrant marine ecosystem, world-class infrastructure and a growing portfolio of international marine and sailing events, Hong Kong is well positioned to become a leading hub for yacht tourism and marine business in Asia. Through our partnership with Informa Markets and the launch of TFOC, we aim to create new opportunities for luxury tourism, business exchange and investment in the region."

The Monaco appearance is part of a wider programme under the Strategic City Partnership. The HKTB is scheduled to participate in a series of international luxury and lifestyle exhibitions, including the Palm Beach International Boat Show, Basel Jewellery & Watch Fair, Top Marques Monaco and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The partnership is intended to raise Hong Kong's profile among the global luxury, marine and lifestyle sectors while supporting the development of the Festival of Connoisseurs (TFOC).
 

The proposition being presented to the marine industry rests partly on Hong Kong's geographical position and infrastructure. The city has one of the world's natural harbours and extensive international air connectivity, providing access to the Greater Bay Area and wider Asian markets. According to the release, recent measures to streamline yacht entry procedures, together with marina developments and investment in marine infrastructure, are creating additional opportunities for yacht owners, operators and marine-related businesses.

Hong Kong is also seeking to build a year-round calendar around the marine sector. International events including SailGP and the Dragon World Championship are adding to the city's portfolio of sailing and marine activities, alongside its broader offer for business networking and premium lifestyle experiences.

The strategy extends beyond yachting itself. In November, Hong Kong will host the inaugural Festival of Connoisseurs, organised by Informa Markets and supported by the HKTB and other strategic partners. Taking place from 4 to 6 November at AsiaWorld-Expo, the event will use a "city-as-your-showroom" concept, extending the experience beyond a conventional exhibition venue and into locations across Hong Kong.

The first edition will bring together nine curated themes spanning yachting, mobility, art, travel, wellness and gastronomy, among others. The organisers intend for the event to develop into a citywide flagship festival from 2027, positioning Hong Kong as a meeting point for international business, culture and luxury lifestyle.

For Informa Markets, the initiative reflects a broader opportunity to develop new flagship experiences in the Asian market, with Hong Kong presented as a potential platform connecting the global marine and luxury industries with the region's growing wealth markets.

The Monaco Yacht Show therefore served as more than a destination promotion exercise. It provided the first international showcase for a wider strategy linking yacht tourism, marine infrastructure, luxury business events and the development of new lifestyle platforms in Hong Kong.
 

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Tokyo has secured six international conferences scheduled between 2027 and 2029, spanning healthcare, computer graphics, intelligent transportation and software engineering. Together, the events are expected to attract around 19,000 participants, including more than 7,000 delegates from overseas.

The latest wins strengthen Tokyo’s pipeline of international association meetings across several knowledge-intensive sectors, with three conferences focused on healthcare and medical sciences and three centred on technology, engineering and computing.

The first of the six events will be the AONS & ISNCC 2027, taking place from 5 to 7 August 2027 at Ariake Central Tower Hall & Conference. The inaugural joint conference of the Asian Oncology Nursing Society (AONS) and the International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care (ISNCC) is expected to welcome approximately 1,050 delegates, including 350 from overseas.

The conference will bring together the two organisations for a commemorative joint meeting, with AONS focused on advancing cancer nursing across Asia through clinical practice, education, research and advocacy, while ISNCC represents an international membership community of oncology nurse leaders. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (TCVB) will provide financial and in-kind support for the event.

In November 2027, Tokyo International Forum will host the IGCS 2027 Annual Global Meeting, from 4 to 6 November. The meeting of the International Gynecologic Cancer Society is expected to attract approximately 4,000 participants, including 1,500 from overseas, making it one of the larger international medical conferences scheduled for Tokyo in recent years.

The meeting will be held together with the 69th Annual Meeting of the Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology and is expected to bring clinicians, researchers and healthcare professionals from more than 80 countries to the Japanese capital. Tokyo’s bid was supported by the Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology and TCVB, with the city offering financial assistance towards venue and event-related costs as well as half-day city tours for delegates.

The largest of the six confirmed events will follow later that month. SIGGRAPH Asia 2027 will take place at Tokyo International Forum from 30 November to 3 December, with approximately 10,000 participants expected, including around 2,400 overseas attendees.

Organised by ACM SIGGRAPH, the conference and exhibition brings together professionals working in computer graphics and interactive technologies, with a programme covering technological developments, industry activity, academic research and paper presentations. Tokyo’s track record in hosting international conferences and exhibitions, alongside its position as a technology and innovation hub in Asia, were cited among the factors behind its selection.

The 2028 programme will bring a further technology-focused gathering to the city when ITSC 2028, the IEEE International Conference on Intelligent Transportation Systems, takes place from 12 to 15 September at the TAKANAWA GATEWAY Convention Center.

The flagship annual event of the IEEE Intelligent Transportation Systems Society is expected to attract approximately 1,000 researchers, engineers and industry leaders. Specialists from more than 35 countries and regions will gather to present and discuss developments in intelligent transportation and mobility technologies. TCVB will provide financial and in-kind support, including assistance with venue costs and the coordination of half-day city tours for delegates.

Two further conferences will arrive in 2029. The IEEE/ACM 51st International Conference on Software Engineering (ICSE 2029) will be held from 22 to 28 April at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba. The conference, organised by the IEEE Computer Society and the Association for Computing Machinery, is expected to attract approximately 2,000 participants, including 1,500 from overseas.

ICSE is one of the leading global conferences in software engineering and will return to Tokyo for the second time, following its previous edition in the city in 1982. The successful bid was supported by Tokyo’s event infrastructure, international accessibility and software development ecosystem, alongside financial and in-kind assistance from TCVB.

Completing the current pipeline is APFSSH 2029, the congress of the Asian Pacific Federation of Societies for Surgery of the Hand. Scheduled for 1 to 4 September at the Keio Plaza Hotel, the event is expected to welcome approximately 1,100 delegates, including 600 overseas participants.

The biennial congress will bring together hand surgeons, researchers and other healthcare professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region to exchange knowledge on developments and advances in hand surgery. Founded in 1994, APFSSH promotes collaboration, education and professional exchange among hand surgery societies across the region. Tokyo will provide financial and in-kind support for the congress through the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and TCVB.

The six wins give Tokyo a conference pipeline that cuts across both established and emerging areas of international association business. Healthcare accounts for the AONS & ISNCC conference, IGCS and APFSSH, while SIGGRAPH Asia, ITSC and ICSE bring major meetings in computer graphics, intelligent transportation and software engineering to the city.

Across the six events, the estimated attendance totals approximately 19,150 participants, including around 7,350 international delegates. The figures also underline the international profile of the programme: overseas participants are expected to account for more than one-third of the combined attendance, based on the estimates provided by Business Events Tokyo.

For the host city, the bids have also involved a consistent package of financial and practical support from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and TCVB, ranging from venue assistance to delegate programmes and city tours. The TCVB’s Business Events Team describes itself as a one-stop service for meeting planners and organisers seeking support with international business event bids in Tokyo.
 

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Group (clockwise from centre front) Professor Christian Hartinger, University of Auckland; Julian Bottaro, University of Auckland; Gemma Wood, Auckland Convention Bureau; Michael Stokoe, Tourism New Zealand Business Events; Stephanie Szmurlo, University of Auckland Event Services; Xanthe Smythe, NZICC; Morgan Harnett, University of Auckland Event Services

New Zealand has secured the right to host the 50th International Conference on Coordination Chemistry (ICCC50), bringing one of the field’s major international gatherings to Auckland in 2034.

The six-day conference is expected to attract between 1,000 and 1,200 delegates from around the world to the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), bringing together leading researchers, academics, emerging scientists and industry representatives.

The significance of the win extends beyond the scale of the meeting itself. Coordination chemistry underpins advances with applications across modern medicine, cleaner manufacturing, new materials and renewable energy technologies, giving ICCC50 a scientific remit that reaches well beyond the laboratory.

The successful bid was led by Professor Christian Hartinger of the University of Auckland, with Professor Sally Brooker and Professor James Crowley of the University of Otago (all pictured below) serving as co-chairs, alongside Professor Robin Fulton of Victoria University of Wellington. Their international standing within the coordination chemistry community was central to the bid, which also drew on the breadth of research being conducted across New Zealand.
 

A national research proposition

The bid was presented as a genuinely national effort, bringing together researchers and institutions from across the country around a shared vision for the conference. Its case rested on the strength of New Zealand’s scientific community, the collaborative character of its research environment and its ability to deliver an international conference experience supported by a broad network of academic and business events partners.

That network included the University of Auckland Event Services team, Auckland Convention Bureau, Auckland Advocate Alliance, Tourism New Zealand Business Events and the New Zealand International Convention Centre.

The strength of the national research ecosystem was also visible at the recent International Conference on Coordination Chemistry, where a strong contingent of New Zealand academics and students demonstrated the country’s active engagement with the international community. Their participation reflected a research environment spanning multiple institutions and disciplines, and provided tangible evidence of the connections behind the Auckland bid.

"This was a genuine all-of-New Zealand effort," said Professor Hartinger. "Our bid showcased not only the quality of coordination chemistry research being undertaken across the country, but also the collaborative nature of New Zealand science and our engagement with the international research community.

"ICCC50 represents much more than a conference. It is an opportunity to inspire the next generation of coordination chemists, strengthen international partnerships, and showcase New Zealand's research excellence, innovation and unique culture to colleagues from around the world.

"We look forward to welcoming delegates to Auckland and creating connections that will benefit researchers, institutions and scientific collaboration long after the conference concludes."
 

A platform for the next generation

The 2034 gathering will also build on an established trajectory of international engagement. Before ICCC50 reaches Auckland, the team led by Professor Hartinger will host the 12th Asian Coordination Chemistry Conference (ACCC12) in 2028 at the University of Auckland, giving New Zealand another opportunity to deepen its connections within the global chemistry community.

The two conferences create a longer runway for international collaboration, with ACCC12 providing an earlier platform for researchers, students and institutions to connect before the larger global gathering arrives in 2034.

For Auckland and New Zealand’s business events sector, the win also demonstrates how scientific credentials and destination capability can reinforce one another when major association conferences are bid for collectively. The ICCC50 campaign brought universities, researchers, convention infrastructure and destination organisations into a single proposition, linking the country’s research capacity with its ability to host a meeting of international scale.

The anticipated benefits extend beyond delegate numbers and visitor expenditure. ICCC50 is expected to attract high-value international visitors while strengthening long-term research partnerships and raising New Zealand’s profile as a destination for international conferences, scientific collaboration and innovation.

By 2034, the conference is therefore intended to leave a legacy that reaches beyond its six days in Auckland: stronger international research networks, greater visibility for New Zealand’s scientific talent and further connections between emerging researchers, established institutions and the wider international coordination chemistry community.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Bangkok’s position as a regional MICE hub has long rested on scale, connectivity and hospitality infrastructure. Yet, within Muang Thong Thani, one of Thailand’s leading event districts, the IMPACT Arena, Exhibition and Convention Center is advancing a more structural argument: that large-scale venues are no longer only hosts of economic activity, but active players shaping how cities operate, consume resources and engage communities.

At the heart of IMPACT’s strategy is a redefinition of sustainability. Instead of treating it as a parallel programme, IMPACT embeds it directly into its daily operations, from procurement and food systems to waste management and supplier coordination. “Sustainability at IMPACT is not implemented as a standalone programme; it is embedded into our daily operations and decision-making processes,” says the Chief Executive Officer of IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., Ltd., Paul Kanjanapas. “For a venue that hosts millions of visitors annually and hundreds of events of varying scales, even small operational changes can create significant cumulative impact.”

This operational framing extends across the venue’s food and beverage strategy. Local sourcing has become a procurement principle, not merely an aspiration, while plant-based menus are increasingly integrated into event catering. Organic waste is processed and converted into fertiliser used within the precinct itself, closing loops that traditionally fall outside the venue boundary. “Sustainability requires continuous monitoring, measurement, and improvement,” Kanjanapas adds. “Rather than adding complexity, it has helped us create a more efficient, resilient and responsible business model.”

Moving from isolated initiatives to integrated systems is central to IMPACT’s positioning. It also reflects a broader redefinition of what ‘sustainability’ means in the context of high-volume event infrastructure, where scale amplifies both impact and opportunity. A key challenge, however, lies in organisational culture. Embedding sustainability requires alignment across departments that were historically optimised for cost, speed and delivery, with environmental performance playing a secondary role. “The greatest challenge is cultural transformation,” Kanjanapas says. “Sustainability cannot be driven solely by a dedicated ESG team; it must become part of the mindset of every department, from procurement and engineering to catering and event operations.”
 

He notes that this shift requires procurement frameworks that take more than cost into account. Environmental impact, sourcing practices and long-term efficiency are now part of decision-making criteria. Event planning, similarly, must integrate waste and resource considerations from the outset, avoiding costly adjustments later in the process. “Operational discipline means treating sustainability with the same rigor as safety, quality and financial performance,” he adds. “For large venues like ours, the opportunity is to become platforms that connect these stakeholders and create sustainable ecosystems that extend far beyond the boundaries of the venue itself.”

The same principles guide not only venue operations, but also relationships with suppliers, producers and local communities. IMPACT increasingly frames sustainability not as a collection of initiatives but as a connected network spanning food production, logistics, energy, landscaping and community engagement. “We view sustainability as an ecosystem rather than a checklist,” Kanjanapas explains. “Food sourcing, catering operations, waste management, landscaping, energy efficiency and community engagement are interconnected components of a larger system.”

Within this logic, localisation becomes both environmental and economic strategy. By working with nearby suppliers and institutions, IMPACT reduces transport emissions while strengthening regional supply chains and community value creation. “The future of sustainable venues will depend increasingly on their ability to collaborate with local suppliers, communities, educational institutions and technology partners,” he says. “Localisation not only reduces environmental impact but also strengthens economic resilience and social value creation.”

The Next Layer of IMPACT in Muang Thong Thani

A small number of institutional partnerships reinforce this direction. IMPACT has secured multiple certifications under Thailand’s MICE Venue Standards (TMVS and TMVS Plus), ASEAN MICE Venue Standards (AMVS), and Thailand Sustainable Event Management Standard (TSEMS), thereby aligning its operations within formalised regional frameworks for performance and accountability. It has also been ranked among the top five ASEAN venues under AMVS recognition, reinforcing its market proposition.

Alongside its operational efforts, IMPACT is also reshaping the spatial logic of its district. The transformation of the former Eastin Lakeside Hotel into The Lake Club signals the emergence of mixed-use, continuously active environments within Muang Thong Thani. “The Lake Club represents our vision of transforming Muang Thong Thani into a vibrant destination that extends beyond exhibitions and conventions,” says Kanjanapas. “We wanted to create a space that remains relevant and engaging every day of the year for residents, visitors, businesses and the wider community.”

Combining hospitality, culture, retail and workspaces, the project is designed to remain active year-round, not just during events. As infrastructure connectivity in the area improves, its role is expected to deepen as a node within a broader urban structure. The Lake Club is also envisioned as a ‘business laboratory,’ providing a real-world setting to test new formats before rolling them out more broadly. This includes culinary concepts, cultural programming and experiential formats developed in real operational conditions. “This approach reflects a wider trend in the events and entertainment industry,” Kanjanapas notes. “Consumer expectations are evolving rapidly, and successful organisations must become more agile, innovative and data-driven.”
 

He emphasises that this model allows for iterative development, reducing the distance between idea and implementation. It also positions the venue as an experimental layer within a larger framework system. Convention infrastructure itself is also being redefined. Where venues were once activated primarily during events, IMPACT increasingly sees them as components of a continuous urban fabric. “Convention centres can no longer operate as isolated facilities that activate only during events,” Kanjanapas says. “The most successful destinations of the future will be those that integrate business, lifestyle, entertainment, culture and community engagement into a cohesive ecosystem.”

A separate partnership with Bangkok University reinforces this trajectory, creating pathways for education, training and workforce development aligned with evolving industry needs. In parallel, collaboration with Nakhon Pak Kret Municipality on smart city development reflects a broader public-private alignment around urban planning, data integration and quality of life improvements within Muang Thong Thani. These initiatives point towards a model where MICE infrastructure is not only economic but also civic, contributing to long-term urban development and governance structures.

Looking ahead, Kanjanapas sees Asia’s MICE sector moving towards convergence across sustainability, technology and experiential design. “Future leadership will not be determined solely by venue size or infrastructure,” he says. “Success will increasingly depend on the ability to create integrated destination experiences, demonstrate sustainability leadership, embrace technological innovation, and build strong international networks.” Thailand’s competitive advantage, he argues, lies in its ability to combine infrastructure readiness with cultural and experiential depth. IMPACT’s strategy is to position itself within that trajectory, not as a standalone venue, but as a destination system. As he concludes: “The winners will be those that successfully combine global competitiveness with local relevance.”
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

A new international convention subsidy is giving associations and event organisers another reason to consider Osaka, with support available for qualifying events through March 2033 and a major new MICE development on the horizon.

For associations deciding where their next international congress, conference or rotating meeting should be held, destination selection is increasingly about more than the strength of a venue or the attractiveness of a city. Financial support, institutional backing, local expertise and the ability to build a credible long-term proposition around an event can all influence a bid. Osaka is now putting those elements together.

A new international convention subsidy has been established jointly by Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City and the Osaka Chamber of Commerce, creating a dedicated framework intended to attract and support qualifying international conventions held in Osaka Prefecture. Applications cover events taking place from 1 April 2026 through 31 March 2033, giving associations several years in which to consider Osaka within their international rotation and bidding strategies.

The initiative is particularly relevant to associations whose congresses connect with sectors in which Osaka has identified particular strengths. These include life sciences, craftsmanship, environment and energy, international finance, sports, gastronomy and entertainment, as well as themes capable of generating innovation or strengthening the competitiveness of industries in Osaka.

The programme therefore goes beyond a generic incentive to bring more international meetings to the city. It is explicitly connected to Osaka's economic and industrial priorities, positioning international conventions as instruments for knowledge exchange, investment, tourism and business development.

What qualifying events need to meet

For organisers, the criteria are relatively clear. The destination must still be undecided when the application is made, meaning the programme is designed to influence the bidding and destination-selection stage rather than retrospectively subsidise an event that has already committed to Osaka. The convention must take place over at least three days and attract a minimum of 50 participants, including at least 20 non-Japanese participants living overseas. It must also involve at least three countries or regions, including Japan, and take place at a facility within Osaka Prefecture.

There is a further distinction for associations seeking support specifically to entice an international convention to Osaka. In addition to meeting the core requirements, the organiser must be an international organisation or association and the event must rotate between at least three countries or regions. Applications for this strand must be made through a Japanese representative or association connected to the convention.

The subsidy also comes with an important non-duplication condition: qualifying events cannot simultaneously receive certain grants or subsidies from Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, the Osaka Chamber of Commerce, the national government or other local municipalities. Organisers therefore need to consider the programme alongside, rather than simply on top of, other public funding arrangements.

For associations accustomed to planning congresses several years ahead, the length of the programme may be as significant as the financial support itself. A convention rotating between international destinations can require decisions well before the event year, and Osaka is effectively signalling that it wants to be considered as part of those longer-term conversations.
 

A destination proposition that extends beyond the subsidy

The financial programme is only one part of Osaka's offer. The Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau (OCTB) provides support across the bidding, planning and delivery stages. For events still competing for a host destination, this can include assistance with bid strategy, venue and hotel quotations, destination information, official invitation letters, lobbying support, site visits and access to financial support mechanisms.

Once an event has been awarded to Osaka, the support can extend into operational delivery. The OCTB can assist with introductions to PCOs, event planners and travel agencies, venue bookings, cultural and post-convention programmes, promotional activity, coordination with government and local economic organisations, visitor information and official welcome messages.

There is also practical support for the experience surrounding the conference itself, including cultural performances, locally relevant experiences, sustainable novelties and Osaka products, alongside certain forms of shuttle support for qualifying international conventions.

For an association, that matters because the destination proposition increasingly forms part of the delegate proposition. A strong congress bid is not only about securing plenary space and accommodation; it is also about demonstrating how the host city can contribute to the wider intellectual, cultural and social experience of the meeting.

Looking towards 2030

There is another reason Osaka's timing is significant. The subsidy programme is being developed against the backdrop of the city's next major MICE development: the Osaka Integrated Resort (IR), currently under construction on Yumeshima and targeting an opening in autumn 2030. The project is planned as a large integrated complex combining hotels, convention space, restaurants, entertainment and other facilities.

For the meetings industry, the convention component is particularly relevant. Plans call for a major international conference and exhibition complex, with the largest event room intended to accommodate more than 6,000 people and total capacity across the facilities expected to exceed 12,000.

That places the subsidy and the IR on the same strategic timeline. Osaka is not simply seeking events for the next few seasons; it is building a proposition that can evolve as new capacity comes online. The IR is also being developed on Yumeshima, the artificial island that hosted Expo 2025. According to the OCTB, the project is expected to attract around 20 million visitors annually once operational, while contributing to the wider Kansai economy and creating approximately 15,000 on-site jobs.

For international associations, the implications are potentially significant. A destination that already combines established convention infrastructure with a substantial pipeline of new capacity gives planners the possibility of matching different event formats to different stages of Osaka's development.
 

Building the ecosystem around the event

Perhaps the more interesting aspect of Osaka's approach is the degree to which the destination is attempting to build an ecosystem around the convention itself. The OCTB describes its model as a collaboration between Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City and the local economic sector. Its support extends from bid development through to event operation, with the bureau positioning itself as a bridge between organisers and the city's venues, suppliers, government bodies, tourism infrastructure and business community.

That is particularly relevant for associations. International congresses can generate value well beyond delegate expenditure, particularly when their scientific, professional or commercial communities connect with local institutions and industries. Osaka's subsidy criteria reflect this thinking by giving particular attention to fields connected to the city's economic strengths and to events capable of contributing to innovation and industrial competitiveness.

The result is a proposition that is less about subsidising an event in isolation and more about using international meetings as part of a wider destination strategy. For organisers currently reviewing future host cities, Osaka therefore presents a proposition with three distinct layers: financial support for qualifying conventions, hands-on destination assistance, and a major expansion of MICE infrastructure on the horizon.

With the subsidy programme running until March 2033, associations planning their next international rotation have a considerable window in which to explore the opportunity. And with the Osaka IR expected to open in 2030, the destination's proposition is likely to look substantially different by the end of that period.

For Osaka, the ambition is also explicit: use the combination of international conventions, local economic strengths, coordinated destination support and new infrastructure to move further up the global MICE hierarchy and towards the OCTB's stated goal of becoming Asia's No. 1 meeting and event destination.
 

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Jason Tan Chin Foo (cover photo), Chief Executive Officer of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), has been appointed Chair of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Asia Pacific Chapter for the 2026–2028 term, becoming the first Sarawakian to take on the regional leadership role.

The appointment comes as Asia Pacific continues to strengthen its influence within the global business events industry, with regional collaboration, knowledge exchange and collective leadership emerging as priorities for a sector facing an evolving operating environment.

Tan Chin Foo said his focus during his two-year term would be on building stronger connections between ICCA members across the region while advancing professional standards, sustainability and long-term impact.

"I’m honoured to be appointed as ICCA Asia Pacific Chair. My aspiration is to build a stronger, more connected and inclusive Asia Pacific Chapter where collaboration becomes our greatest strength,” said Jason. “Together, we will share knowledge, elevate professional standards and champion sustainable development to create a more resilient business events industry that delivers lasting value for our members, our destinations and our communities."

In taking up the role, Tan Chin Foo also acknowledged the contribution of Jane Vong Holmes, Senior Manager – Asia Pacific at GainingEdge and Immediate Past Chair of the ICCA Asia Pacific Chapter. He expressed his appreciation for her leadership and service, highlighting the foundation she has established for the chapter's next phase.

The appointment has also been welcomed by BESarawak leadership. Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary (Operations) and BESarawak Chairman, described the new role as a reflection of the confidence placed in Tan Chin Foo by the international business events community.

"Jason's appointment is a recognition of his leadership and dedication to the business events industry. We are honoured that he has been entrusted with this important regional role, and we are confident he will contribute meaningfully to strengthening collaboration, knowledge exchange and the continued growth of the business events industry across Asia Pacific."

For ICCA, the appointment comes at a time when the Asia Pacific region is playing an increasingly significant role in the development of the international meetings and conventions sector. Waikin Wong, ICCA's Asia Pacific Senior Regional Director, said Tan Chin Foo's leadership and industry experience would support greater cooperation among members.

"Jason's appointment is a testament to his leadership, industry expertise and commitment to advancing the business events sector. His collaborative approach and strategic perspective will be invaluable in bringing members together, strengthening regional cooperation and supporting the continued growth of the Asia Pacific Chapter."

The Asia Pacific Chapter is one of ICCA's six regional chapters, alongside Africa, Europe, Latin America & the Caribbean, Middle East and North America.

ICCA represents more than 1,000 member organisations across over 100 countries and territories and serves as a global platform for the international meetings and conventions industry. Through its regional structure, the association connects business events professionals and organisations around collaboration, knowledge exchange, advocacy and professional development.

Tan Chin Foo's appointment places Sarawak at the centre of that regional network for the 2026–2028 term, while putting a clear emphasis on collaboration, sustainability and shared knowledge as the chapter looks to strengthen the resilience and long-term value of business events across Asia Pacific.
 

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The 2024 Hungry Jack’s National Convention was among the larger franchise conferences with 950 delegates at the Cairns Convention Centre

Cairns is strengthening its position in Australia’s franchise conference market, with six franchise conferences scheduled to take place in the destination during 2026, bringing a combined 3,450 delegates to Tropical North Queensland.

The programme includes the Body Fit Conference, which is returning to Cairns for a second consecutive year, as a growing number of franchise organisations look to combine their annual business gatherings with the leisure appeal of the region.

According to Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) Partnerships and Events General Manager Tara Bennett, the destination’s appeal lies partly in its ability to allow franchise owners to combine professional commitments with a holiday in Tropical North Queensland.

“Since the National Franchise Convention for 360 was held at the Cairns Convention Centre in May 2024, attention has turned to our destination for its ability to deliver a world-class business event in an international destination,” she said.

“Cairns has attracted 13 franchise conferences bringing more than 6000 delegates who injected $27 million into the region. Food outlets, pool shops, pharmacies, builders and gyms are among the diverse franchises to combine business with pleasure at conferences held at the Cairns Convention Centre and CBD hotels.

“The ease of getting to Cairns from any Australian destination, New Zealand and Southeast Asia, and then travelling just 10 minutes from the airport to your city accommodation is attractive to busy franchise owners. Delegates enjoy bringing their families to enjoy a pre- or post-conference getaway in the only place where two World Heritage areas are side by side.

“More than 20 per cent of delegates extend their stay and meeting organisers tell us that the destination’s appeal is a significant factor in their marketing as it generates delegate interest. The mix of conferences choosing Cairns shows the versatility of the destination with events ranging from 75 delegates to 1000 and diverse offsite functions in unique venues including repurposed World War II fuel tanks and a timber mill.”

The figures underline the extent to which franchise conferences have become part of Cairns’ business events pipeline. Since the 2024 National Franchise Convention for 360, the destination has attracted 13 franchise conferences, representing more than 6,000 delegates and an estimated $27 million in regional economic impact.

The range of organisations using Cairns also illustrates the breadth of the franchise sector. Conferences have brought together businesses spanning food outlets, pool shops, pharmacies, builders and gyms, with events hosted at the Cairns Convention Centre and hotels in the central business district.

A destination built around the conference

Accessibility is one of the destination’s practical advantages. Cairns can be reached from destinations across Australia as well as New Zealand and Southeast Asia, while the airport is only around ten minutes from accommodation in the city.

For franchise owners and other delegates with limited time away from their businesses, that combination of air access and short transfers can make a difference. The destination’s leisure offer provides another incentive, with delegates able to extend their business trip into a pre- or post-conference holiday and bring their families with them.

TTNQ says more than 20% of delegates extend their stay, while organisers report that the destination itself can become part of their conference marketing by generating additional interest among prospective attendees.

Cairns’ ability to accommodate different scales and formats is another part of the proposition. Franchise events held in the destination have ranged from around 75 delegates to as many as 1,000, while offsite programmes have made use of venues with a strong sense of place, including repurposed World War II fuel tanks and a timber mill.

The 2026 Carpet Court Australia Conference provides a recent example. The event brought 600 delegates together for a programme combining education, exhibition activity and networking across several Cairns venues, including the Cairns Convention Centre, Crystalbrook Flynn, Hemingway’s Brewery and The Tanks Art Centre.

The conference programme was also deliberately structured to allow delegates time away from formal sessions. Event organiser Rebecca Sullivan from Impact said the decision to build a day off into the middle of the conference generated particularly strong feedback.

“This was one of the most repeated positives in the event’s feedback with delegates heading to the Great Barrier Reef, joining a coach trip for a day out in Port Douglas, or golfing at Yorkey’s Knob,” she said.

The approach demonstrates how the destination can be incorporated into the event programme without necessarily competing with its business objectives. Delegates were given time to absorb the conference content while also experiencing some of the region’s major attractions.

Taking over the city

For brands looking to create a highly visible conference presence, Cairns’ compact urban footprint can offer another advantage.

Bennett points to the 2024 Hungry Jack’s National Convention as an example of how a large franchise brand can extend its identity beyond the conference venue and into the wider destination.

“The 2024 Hungry Jack’s National Convention was among the larger franchise conferences with 950 delegates walking along the Esplanade each day in their brand shirts and heading to offsite events in a ‘Still fired Up!’ custom-branded bus,” she said.

The brand’s presence extended beyond delegates’ movements through the city. A new Hungry Jack’s restaurant opened on Sheridan Street during the period, while custom-branded LED welcome signage was installed at Cairns Airport. At Hemingway’s Brewery, delegates were also offered a custom-made lager named Thirsty Jack’s.

For Cairns, such examples point to a broader proposition: the destination can function not simply as a backdrop for a conference, but as an extension of the event itself.

With six franchise conferences bringing 3,450 delegates in 2026 alone, the sector is becoming a significant component of Cairns’ business events activity. The combination of direct accessibility, compact city logistics, flexible venues and the ability to integrate leisure experiences into the conference journey is helping the destination appeal to an audience for whom attending an annual conference increasingly needs to deliver value beyond the meeting room.
 

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Arinex has launched its INNOVATE Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2026–2028, following formal endorsement by Reconciliation Australia and establishing a structured framework for advancing reconciliation across its business and event operations.

The Australian event management company has announced the launch of its INNOVATE Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2026–2028, marking a significant step in its ongoing commitment to meaningful reconciliation and to strengthening the role of the business events industry in fostering cultural understanding and opportunity.

Endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, the plan provides Arinex with a framework through which reconciliation can be embedded more deeply into its operations, workplace culture and event delivery. The company says the RAP will focus on strengthening relationships, deepening cultural understanding and creating more meaningful opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and businesses.

The initiative reflects Arinex’s recognition of the capacity of business events to contribute to broader social and cultural outcomes. Through conferences, exhibitions, incentive programmes and corporate events, the sector can provide platforms for sharing First Nations cultures and perspectives with audiences from Australia and around the world.

A central element of the new RAP will be the development of a Reconciliation Event Framework, described by Arinex as a first-of-its-kind approach designed to introduce minimum reconciliation standards alongside optional cultural enhancements across events managed by the company.

Co-designed with First Nations advisors, the framework will provide guidance across areas including cultural acknowledgements, engagement of First Nations suppliers, opportunities for delegate education and culturally respectful event practices. Its purpose is to translate the principles of reconciliation into practical considerations that can be incorporated into the planning and delivery of events.

Jessica Ferguson, CEO of Arinex, said the RAP represents both a responsibility and an opportunity for the organisation.

“Through the events we deliver, we have an opportunity to showcase the richness of First Nations cultures to audiences from around Australia and the world. We are committed to ensuring reconciliation continues to be an integral part of how we do business and how we create experiences.”

The development of the RAP has been supported by First Nations leaders and advocates, whose guidance has helped shape the company's approach. Among them is Erica Smits, a Gamilaroi and Euahlayi woman and member of the Arinex RAP Working Group.

Smits has served as an advisor and supporter throughout the RAP development process. She recently graduated with an MBA (Social Impact) from the University of New South Wales and was honoured as the first Indigenous graduate invited to deliver the Acknowledgement of Country at a university graduation ceremony, described as a significant milestone in the institution’s history.

Her involvement reflects Arinex’s stated emphasis on elevating First Nations voices and perspectives as the company works to translate reconciliation commitments into organisational practice.

Over the next two years, Arinex will focus on three principal areas: strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders; increasing cultural capability across its workforce; and sharing its learnings with clients and industry partners.

The latter is intended to extend the potential impact of the RAP beyond Arinex itself, with the company seeking to contribute to wider conversations and practices around reconciliation across the business events sector.

Virginia Loyola, Director of Sales & Partnerships and RAP Champion, emphasised the importance of maintaining that commitment over the longer term. “This RAP is about moving beyond intent and ensuring reconciliation is embedded into our culture, our decision-making and the events we create.”

Through the RAP, Arinex aims to strengthen its own organisational practices while contributing to a business events industry that is more inclusive and culturally connected. The company identifies clients, delegates, suppliers and communities among those who can benefit from the meaningful outcomes it seeks to create through the programme.

Founded in 1973, Arinex is one of Australasia’s leading event management companies, delivering conferences, incentive programmes, corporate events and exhibitions. With teams across Australia and New Zealand, the company works with associations, corporations and other organisations to deliver events connecting people, ideas and communities across Australasia and internationally.
 

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© Business Events Sarawak

Sarawak is set to become the meeting point for the global microelectronics community in December, after winning the bid to host the 38th International Conference on Microelectronics (ICM 2026) — bringing the prestigious event back to Malaysia for the first time in more than three decades.

Taking place from 7 to 10 December 2026 in Kuching, with the Borneo Cultures Museum serving as a principal conference venue, ICM 2026 is expected to attract more than 300 researchers, engineers, academics and industry professionals from across the international microelectronics community. The programme will provide a platform for participants to exchange expertise and examine developments likely to shape the sector's future.

For Sarawak, however, the significance of the conference extends beyond its four-day programme. ICM 2026 aligns directly with the state's Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, particularly its priorities around innovation, digital transformation, human capital development and advanced manufacturing. As Sarawak continues to develop its semiconductor ecosystem, the conference is intended to connect international expertise with local talent, research capabilities and industry, while examining the role of artificial intelligence (AI) as an accelerator for microelectronics development.

“ICM 2026 is an important step towards the Sarawak Government’s ambition of building a high-income economy driven by innovation and technology,” said Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak. “For Sarawak to compete in the industries of the future, we must create opportunities for our people to learn from the best, participate in global networks and turn knowledge into real opportunities. ICM brings that global community directly to us, creating opportunities for our talent and industry to learn, collaborate and turn knowledge into new possibilities for Sarawak.”

The conference's technical programme will span regular papers, special sessions, cross-society special sessions, an embedded workshop, live demonstrations, tutorials and a technical industry visit. Alongside the core programme, organisers are also developing a Sino-Malaysia workshop, a CASS Standards workshop and a CAS Industry Forum. Together, these elements are designed to broaden the conference's remit beyond academic exchange, creating additional opportunities for industry engagement, standards discussions and international collaboration.

The event also carries substantial international institutional backing. Organised by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Circuits and Systems Society (IEEE CASS), ICM 2026 will receive technical co-sponsorship from IEEE CASS and thirteen IEEE CASS chapters worldwide. The conference has secured IEEE Xplore publication approval, while selected papers will be invited for extended submission to IEEE Transactions on VLSI Systems, Neuroelectronics and the Journal of Integrated Circuits and Systems, subject to the respective journals' review processes.

For Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), the conference illustrates the strategic value of attracting specialised international meetings whose subject matter corresponds closely with a destination's economic and development ambitions.

“Winning ICM 2026 demonstrates the strategic value of attracting specialised international conferences that align with local development priorities,” said Jason Tan Chin Foo, Chief Executive Officer of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak). “The conference is expected to generate RM2.5 million in total estimated economic impact, but its greater value is what it can leave in the long-term. ICM can be a powerful catalyst to strengthen Sarawak’s growing electronics sector through new knowledge, connections and opportunities that continue well beyond the conference. BESarawak is proud to support legacy-driven events such as ICM 2026.”

That emphasis on longer-term value is particularly pertinent as Sarawak seeks to strengthen its position within the semiconductor and electronics landscape. The conference is expected to provide access not only to specialist knowledge, but also to international networks, research relationships and industry connections capable of continuing beyond the event itself.

AI will be one of the central threads running through those conversations. As the computational demands of artificial intelligence expand, microelectronics and hardware efficiency are becoming increasingly consequential to the technology's development, particularly in relation to speed, energy consumption and sustainability.

“The next big step for AI is not only about smarter software, but also building better and more efficient technology to power it,” said Ts. Ir. Dr Fakhrul Zaman Rokhani, IEEE CASS Vice President for Education and Communications and General Chair for ICM2026. “ICM 2026 will explore how we can make AI faster, more energy-efficient and more sustainable through advances in microelectronics and hardware. Bringing these global conversations to Malaysia via Sarawak gives professionals and young talent in the region greater access to the ideas and technologies shaping our future.”

ICM 2026 is being delivered with the IEEE CASS Malaysia Chapter as co-financial sponsor and an active contributor to the organising committee. Supporting organisations include the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), BESarawak, the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Sarawak Microelectronics Design (SMD) Semiconductor Sdn Bhd and Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak. The Academy of Sciences Malaysia will participate as the conference's Science & Technology Partner.

The breadth of the supporting network reflects the event's intended role as a bridge between academia, industry, government and the emerging technology ecosystem. Researchers, scientists, academics, entrepreneurs, engineers, policymakers and industry professionals working across circuits, systems and related technologies are being invited to contribute to the conference's discussions and collaborations.

With ICM returning to Malaysia after more than thirty years, Sarawak will therefore have an opportunity to position Kuching not simply as the host city for an international scientific gathering, but as a meeting ground between global microelectronics expertise and an economy seeking to build greater technological depth of its own.
 

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Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has appointed industry veteran Monica Rizzi as General Manager, Operations, creating a new senior role to lead its largest and busiest division as the venue enters its next phase of growth.

Rizzi brings more than 20 years of operational and commercial leadership experience across Australia’s events and hire industries to the newly created position. She will oversee MCEC’s Operations department and more than 1,000 casual and permanent employees, with a remit centred on operational excellence, innovation and customer experience.

Her appointment comes as MCEC looks to build on its position as one of Australia’s leading business events venues and support its ambition to become the world’s trusted partner for delivering impactful events.

“Monica is an accomplished leader with a proven track record of delivering exceptional operational outcomes and leading high-performing teams,” said Lauren Milsop, Chief Operating Officer of the Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET). “As we continue to grow, Monica's extensive industry experience and customer focus will be invaluable in helping us deliver exceptional experiences for our customers and visitors.”

“I’m delighted to be joining MCEC and look forward to working with our talented Operations team and senior leaders to build on the venue’s strong reputation for delivering world-class events,” said Monica Rizzi, General Manager, Operations.

Rizzi most recently served as General Manager of Events at Harry the Hirer, having previously held senior leadership positions with some of Australia’s best-known hospitality and events organisations, including Crown Ltd, Atlantic Group and Dann Event Hire.

As Rizzi takes up the new position, Milsop will continue as a key member of the venue’s leadership team, providing executive oversight of operations across both MCEC and the newly opened Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, which are operated by VCET.
 

Expanding the business development team

MCEC is also expanding its Business Development team, with the aim of strengthening its domestic market position while pursuing new opportunities in priority international markets, including India and China.

Sandra Lady has been appointed Head of Business Development, leading a team comprising James Gilham, Rose Ryan Earles, Nicoleta Giurgiu and Pinky Brown. Collectively, the team brings more than 150 years of industry experience to the business.

“We are focused on creating new opportunities, strengthening partnerships and delivering value for our customers while showcasing Victoria’s exceptional business events capabilities across two world-class venues,” said Sandra Lady, Head of Business Development.

The expansion gives the venue a strengthened commercial platform at a significant moment for Victoria’s business events proposition. VCET, which operates MCEC, has now extended its footprint beyond Melbourne following the opening of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre in July 2026.

With two major convention and event venues now under its operation, VCET is positioning the expanded network to attract more events and deliver positive outcomes for customers, communities and the Victorian economy.

The scale of MCEC’s existing contribution provides a measure of what is at stake. In the last financial year, events held at the venue generated more than $700 million in economic impact for Victoria.

“In the last financial year, our events at MCEC generated more than $700 million in economic impact for Victoria. I’m incredibly proud of how we contribute – from supporting the businesses we work with directly to driving broader economic benefits for the state,” said Natalie O’Brien AM, Chief Executive of VCET.

The appointments therefore arrive at a moment when the organisation is simultaneously strengthening operational leadership at its flagship Melbourne venue, expanding its business development capabilities and extending its reach into regional Victoria, giving VCET a broader platform from which to grow the state’s business events economy.
 

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AIME Knowledge Monday Programme 2026 © AIME Melbourne

As AIME enters its 34th year, Asia Pacific’s longest-running business events trade show is marking the occasion with a new brand identity designed to reflect its growing international profile and ambitions.

The Melbourne-based show has recorded five consecutive years of growth and has established itself as a recurring meeting point for international buyers, exhibitors and business events leaders. Its new identity is intended to build on that trajectory while positioning AIME more firmly among the industry’s leading global gatherings.

At the centre of the rebrand is the new tagline, “Bring your ambition to Melbourne. Share it with the world.” The refreshed visual identity introduces a bolder and more contemporary aesthetic, combining vibrant colours, new imagery, motion design and a new symbol formed from directional shapes that subtly spell out AIME.

The symbol also draws on Melbourne’s floral emblem, the native Paper Daisy, whose resilience is intended to reflect the strength of connection at the heart of the show: the idea of a global industry coming together to create something stronger.

Melbourne Convention Bureau CEO Julia Swanson (right side) says the evolution of the brand reflects the show’s growing global standing.

"AIME has been the premier platform where international decision-makers connect and build long-term value in Melbourne. As the owners of AIME, MCB is proud to see the event's identity evolve. The new brand matches the ambition, energy and personality of the show itself, while underscoring AIME's role in driving real economic and intellectual growth across the globe.”

Talk2 Media & Events was commissioned to manage AIME in 2019, and the organiser says the experience of growing the show over the intervening years helped shape the brief for the new identity. CEO Matt Pearce points to the breadth of the community now gathering around the event and the way its influence extends beyond Melbourne itself.

“Every year, more than 5,000 people gather for AIME. They come from around the world to build relationships, trade ideas and forge the connections that drive the multi-billion-dollar global meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry forward. Then they disperse across the world, carrying what they learned at AIME back into their own markets and their own work.”
 

 
The new visual language was developed in partnership with Studio Quarantine. According to AIME Marketing Director Monica Kent-Giles, the objective was not simply to modernise the show’s appearance, but to create a more flexible identity capable of representing its next phase.

“We wanted an identity that feels modern, elevated and distinctly AIME. All the design elements, from the custom typography and colour palette to the versatile new symbol, give us a sophisticated, expressive visual toolkit. The refresh honours AIME's heritage while delivering a brand identity that aligns with where the show is heading.”

The new identity arrives as AIME prepares to expand to its largest-ever footprint, with applications now open for the 2027 Hosted Buyer Programme. The programme is targeting qualified corporate event planners, incentive specialists and Professional Conference Organisers, pairing expert human curation with AI to deliver tailored, pre-scheduled appointments with global exhibitors.

AIME Event Director Silke Calder (on the right) says the timing of the rebrand is therefore significant, as the show prepares for another expansion of its buyer and exhibitor community.

“At its core, the team set out to create a new identity that is contemporary and confident, a fresh take on what AIME is. AIME has always been about the strength of community and the magic that happens when people come together to collaborate and exchange ideas. This new brand identity comes at the perfect time as we build towards another record-breaking year for buyers and exhibitors.”

The 2027 Hosted Buyer Programme is aimed at qualified corporate event planners, incentive specialists and Professional Conference Organisers, offering an opportunity to experience AIME as part of a fully supported programme. The model combines human curation with AI to create tailored, pre-scheduled appointments between buyers and global exhibitors.

Approved Hosted Buyers receive complimentary return flights, accommodation and a customised appointment diary, alongside access to the Knowledge Monday programme, networking events and the annual Welcome Event.

The new identity will now be rolled out across AIME’s event touchpoints, digital platforms and marketing campaigns in the run-up to the 2027 edition.

AIME returns to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 15–17 February 2027, with its new identity accompanying the show into what its organisers describe as a new chapter in its development.
 

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The Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) has reached the highest level of EarthCheck certification, with Master Certification recognising 15 consecutive years of independently audited environmental and social performance.

The milestone marks a long-term approach to sustainability at the Brisbane venue, rather than a single initiative or recent programme. Managed by Legends Global, BCEC underwent rigorous third-party assessment covering operational systems, resource management, waste reduction, energy efficiency, cultural inclusion and staff training.

EarthCheck Certified is a science-based benchmarking and certification programme used internationally by tourism and hospitality operators to measure and verify sustainability performance against evidence-based standards. Its Master level recognises organisations that demonstrate enduring leadership in environmental and social responsibility across operations, culture and decision-making.

For BCEC, the assessment identified four areas of best practice: circular economy culture, cultural inclusion, continuous improvement, and staff awareness and training.

Stewart Moore, CEO and Founder of EarthCheck, said the achievement reflected the length and consistency of the Centre's commitment.

“Achieving EarthCheck Master Certification is not simply about reaching a milestone. It represents 15 years of leadership, discipline and continuous improvement. BCEC has demonstrated that sustainability is embedded into how the organisation operates, how its people make decisions and how it continues to invest in better outcomes for the future.”
 

Sustainability as an Operational Practice

Today, BCEC's sustainability activity extends across resource recovery, food waste reduction, energy efficiency, cultural inclusion, community partnerships and staff engagement. Together, these initiatives form a whole-of-business approach, with sustainability integrated into operational processes rather than treated as a separate programme.

The Centre's Corporate Social Responsibility Team provides strategic direction, champions initiatives and identifies opportunities for further improvement, while sustainability outcomes depend on teams across the organisation translating those priorities into everyday practice.

Sustainability & Community Engagement Coordinator Jodie Summers has played a key role in advancing the Centre's environmental and social initiatives, working with teams to implement best practice, develop community partnerships and identify opportunities for positive impact.

For Summers, the significance of the Master Certification lies precisely in that integration.

"Strong sustainability outcomes are built through embedding environmental and social responsibility into systems and everyday decision-making," Ms Summers said.

"This recognition reflects a sustained centre-wide effort to embed environmental and social responsibility into every aspect of our operations. The strongest outcomes are achieved when it's woven into everyday decision-making rather than treated as an additional consideration."

That distinction is increasingly relevant to venues operating in a market where organisers are assessing not only what a venue offers, but how it operates. BCEC's approach connects resource efficiency and environmental performance with social considerations, staff engagement and community relationships.
 

A Collective Achievement

General Manager Kym Guesdon attributed the certification to the contribution of the wider BCEC team and its long-standing commitment to improvement.

"Master Certification is something we are extremely proud to achieve. It recognises the dedication our teams have demonstrated through years of independent assessment and continual improvement. Our ability to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact while supporting a growing events business highlights the commitment, innovation and leadership of Team BCEC. Environmental and social outcomes are increasingly important considerations for event organisers and this recognition reinforces our ability to support clients in delivering events that meet both business and sustainability goals."

The certification also acknowledges the contribution of employees, past and present, who have helped shape BCEC's approach over the 15-year period. The continuity of the programme has created a foundation on which subsequent initiatives and improvements can be built.

As EarthCheck's highest level of certification, Master status places BCEC among a select group of convention centres globally recognised at this level. More significantly, it provides an external validation of a sustainability strategy that has been subject to independent assessment year after year.

The timing also gives the achievement a wider context. With Brisbane preparing to welcome the world for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, BCEC is entering a period in which the city's events infrastructure will face heightened international attention.

The Centre's 15-year sustainability trajectory provides a foundation for that future: one built on continuous measurement, operational integration and the collective effort of the people responsible for turning environmental and social commitments into practice.
 

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Today's scientific and association meetings are expected to do more than bring people together. They create opportunities to collaborate, share knowledge and connect delegates with the people, places and industries shaping the future.

Cairns & Great Barrier Reef offers exactly that. Surrounded by two World Heritage-listed environments, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, the destination provides access to globally significant ecosystems where research is not just discussed, it is happening every day. Delegates can step beyond the conference room to experience fieldwork, hear from researchers and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and innovations shaping our environment.

Tropical North Queensland’s expertise extends well beyond the natural environment. It has established strengths in tropical health, agriculture, marine and maritime industries, renewable energy and environmental science. These sectors address many of today's biggest global issues, from climate resilience and food security to public health and sustainable development. Bringing conferences to Cairns & Great Barrier Reef gives delegates the opportunity to learn from leading experts while connecting with industries tackling these challenges firsthand.
 

Research is also embedded throughout the destination. Institutions including James Cook University and the Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine are internationally recognised for their work in tropical science, medicine and environmental research. Their close links with industry create opportunities for technical visits, guest speakers and collaborative programs that add genuine depth to conference content and leave delegates with practical insights to take home.

Conference programs are easy to design in the walkable city of Cairns, where everything is connected within 10-minutes! The Cairns Convention Centre, accommodation, dining and event venues are all within a comfortable stroll. With the airport only minutes away from the Cairns CBD, event planners spend less time managing logistics and more time creating delegate experiences. The compact layout also makes it easy to include networking events, technical tours and unique off-site functions without losing valuable programme time.
 

Cairns & Great Barrier Reef's collaborative approach extends to every stage of event delivery. Sustainability initiatives, local partnerships and meaningful First Nations experiences can be seamlessly incorporated throughout a conference, helping organisations align their events with broader environmental, social and governance goals. Rather than being an add-on, sustainability becomes part of the overall delegate experience.

For associations looking to create meetings with lasting value, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef offers more than an inspiring destination. It provides access to world-class research, industry expertise and extraordinary natural environments, creating opportunities for delegates to build meaningful connections, exchange knowledge and turn ideas into action.
 

Want to take a closer look at how Cairns turns its unique environment into an asset for academic exchange? Check out this article to discover how research, industry and the natural environment can come together beyond the conference room.
 

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The Maharashtra Convention Bureau, Jio World Convention Centre and ICCA have joined forces to give India’s association leaders a more active role in winning international conferences for Mumbai.

The new Conference Ambassador Programme aims to turn professional expertise and international association networks into a coordinated bidding force, inviting India-based association leaders and industry specialists to champion international congresses and business events for the city.

The initiative is supported by the Maharashtra Convention Bureau (MCB), with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) acting as Knowledge Partner. Under the model, Conference Ambassadors will identify potential events and bring their professional standing, subject expertise and networks to the bid, while Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC) provides the infrastructure and specialist support to take each proposal forward.

That support extends across the bidding process, from bid preparation and relationship-building to marketing, government relations, site inspections and international presentations. Selected Ambassadors will also have access to a Conference Ambassador Grant covering eligible expenses such as international travel, bid preparation and site inspections.

The programme arrives as India strengthens its position in the international association meetings market. According to the Events Industry Council’s 2026 Global Economic Significance of Business Events study, conducted with Oxford Economics, business events in 2025 brought together 1.65 billion participants across more than 180 countries and generated US$1.3 trillion in direct spending.

For Maharashtra, the ambition is to translate that global significance into a more systematic approach to attracting international congresses.

“The Conference Ambassador Programme represents an important step in advancing Maharashtra's position in the global business events landscape. India’s steady progress in the ICCA rankings – from 37th in 2022 to 26th in 2025 – reflects the country’s growing potential as a destination for international conferences and congresses. Winning these events is about much more than bringing delegates to our cities; they create platforms for knowledge exchange, professional collaboration and innovation, while generating wider economic value across sectors. By enabling India’s leading association members and industry professionals to champion international conference bids, with the combined support of MCB, JWCC and ICCA through the process, the programme aims to bring many more global gatherings to Mumbai and create lasting value for Maharashtra,” says Sanjay Khandare, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Government of Maharashtra

The programme builds on the development of Maharashtra’s business events infrastructure and institutional support. MCB, announced at IMEX Frankfurt 2025, is India’s first state-led convention bureau, established to attract and facilitate global events to the state.
 

JWCC, meanwhile, has developed a substantial international congress portfolio since opening in 2022. Its events have included the World Congress of Accountants, International Baccalaureate Global Conference, ICANN Community Forum, Asian Seed Congress, International Federation of Landscape Architects Asia-Pacific Regional Congress, World Green Building Council Congress, WordCamp Asia, Global Fintech Fest, International Olympic Committee Session and KubeCon + CloudNativeCon India.

That pipeline is now extending well into the future, with Mumbai set to host the International Congress on Occupational Health in 2027, FDI World Dental Congress in 2027, IDF World Dairy Summit in 2027, URO Asia – Urological Association of Asia Congress in 2028, World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology Congress in 2029, World Congress of Anaesthesiologists in 2030 and the 50th SICOT Orthopaedic World Congress in 2030.

The new programme seeks to build on that momentum by making the local professional community an integral part of the bidding proposition. Ambassadors will serve on a voluntary basis, identifying prospective association events, mobilising local support, contributing specialist knowledge to bid documents and representing Mumbai before international decision-making bodies.

For ICCA, the partnership adds an international industry perspective to that process, while JWCC’s dedicated bidding team provides the practical support required to turn an expression of interest into a competitive bid.

Applications are open to active association members and industry professionals based in India. Candidates will be assessed on their ability to act as the primary champion for an international conference, influence local and international stakeholders and contribute meaningfully to a successful bid.

Those selected will receive bid assets and expert guidance alongside support for site inspections, publicity, government relations, networking and peer learning, as well as pitch coaching.

At its core, the programme represents a shift from destination bidding as a venue-led exercise towards a model built around the people and professional communities capable of bringing international associations to the table. For Mumbai, the objective is not simply to add more conferences to an already strong calendar, but to deepen the connection between India’s expertise, its global association networks and the city’s capacity to host the world’s leading meetings.

Strategically positioned at the crossroads of commerce and culture in Mumbai's thriving Bandra Kurla Complex, Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC) is one of India's largest and most technologically advanced venues for business and cultural events. A part of the Jio World Centre precinct, JWCC is a LEED-certified, first-of-its-kind facility envisioned by Mrs. Nita Mukesh Ambani, Director of Reliance Industries and Founder & Chairperson of Reliance Foundation. Offering transformative spaces with cutting-edge technology, virtual and hybrid event capabilities, exceptional safety standards, world-class cuisine, and a dedicated team, JWCC ensures you have everything you need to host outstanding events.
 

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MEET TAIWAN is strengthening Taiwan’s MICE talent pipeline through long-term investment in internationally recognised professional qualifications, helping local practitioners build the skills needed to compete in an increasingly global meetings market.

Since 2012, the initiative has supported access to professional certifications including the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM), using international standards as a framework for developing expertise across Taiwan’s business events ecosystem.

Its latest CMP training programme, held over four days on 25–26 July and 1–2 August 2026, brought together professionals from a broad cross-section of the industry and public sector. Participants included representatives from PCOs, PEOs, DMCs, the Kaohsiung City Government, universities and other strategic sectors, reflecting the increasingly diverse expertise required to deliver international conferences and business events.

The programme also attracted participants from Taiwan’s rapidly expanding semiconductor sector. Representatives of the Taiwan Semiconductor Research Institute, including members of the team behind the Taiwan-Europe Chip Innovation Forum (TECIF), took part to strengthen their capabilities in planning and delivering international forums and exchanges.

The participation of research and technology professionals points to a wider role for MICE expertise as Taiwan’s key industries deepen their international engagement. By connecting globally recognised certification with the needs of strategic sectors, MEET TAIWAN is seeking to ensure that professional development keeps pace with the country’s evolving position as a destination for knowledge-driven events.

The initiative’s approach extends beyond individual qualifications. By bringing together industry practitioners, government representatives, academia and professionals from key economic sectors, MEET TAIWAN is helping to build a more connected talent ecosystem while strengthening the capabilities available to international event organisers.

Through its continued investment in professional training and certification, MEET TAIWAN is supporting the development of a skilled MICE workforce, strengthening Taiwan’s destination competitiveness and reinforcing its role as a platform for international knowledge exchange.

MEET TAIWAN is Taiwan’s dedicated platform for promoting the country as an international destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE). Its work focuses on strengthening Taiwan’s global MICE profile while supporting the development of the local professionals, capabilities and networks needed to attract and deliver international events. Through industry promotion, professional development and collaboration across the public and private sectors, MEET TAIWAN connects Taiwan’s business events community with international opportunities and helps position the destination as a trusted hub for global business and knowledge exchange.
 

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Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre has welcomed more than 12,200 attendees across 15 events during its first month of operation, signalling a strong opening for the new regional business events venue.

The newly opened Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre has welcomed more than 12,200 visitors across 15 events during its first month, combining major conferences and business gatherings with community celebrations and exhibitions.

Throughout July, the Geelong venue hosted a varied programme that included the Community Open Day, Geelong Careers Expo, Barwon Health Foundation Gala Ball, Business Managers Victoria Annual Leadership Conference, Associations Forum National Conference and the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative NAIDOC Ball.

The mix of events has provided an early demonstration of the venue’s intended role in the region: serving the local community while attracting national conferences and visitors to Geelong.

A strong first month

Nyaal Banyul General Manager Rick Aylett said the venue had made a strong start since opening and was quickly establishing itself among Australia’s leading regional events venues.

"We're thrilled with how well the first month has gone. We've welcomed more than 12,000 people through the venue and successfully hosted everything from major conferences and gala events to community celebrations and expos," Mr Aylett said.

He added that the response from organisers, delegates and the local community had provided a strong platform for the venue's next phase. "The response from organisers, delegates and the local community has been overwhelmingly positive, and it's a great foundation to build on."

The first month’s programme has also highlighted the dual role Nyaal Banyul is expected to play within the region, bringing together local and national audiences under the same roof. "One week we're welcoming thousands of local residents through the doors, the next we're hosting a national conference. That's exactly what Nyaal Banyul was designed to do," he said.

Beyond the venue itself, the events are also contributing to the wider visitor economy by bringing delegates and event attendees into the city and surrounding region. "These events support local hotels, restaurants, suppliers and businesses, while helping showcase Geelong as a destination for major events.”
 

Connecting conferences with the visitor economy

The early business events activity is already translating into wider visitor flows, according to Tracy Carter, Executive Director of Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine. With national conferences bringing delegates into Geelong, the impact extends beyond the conference centre itself, supporting accommodation, hospitality and cultural experiences across the destination.

“It's been particularly pleasing to welcome delegates for large national conferences who have filled hotel rooms across the city, found their way into hospitality and cultural precincts, and toured further afield before and after their events."

The venue’s opening is also being positioned as a development for the wider regional Victorian business events market. Natalie Suleyman, Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, said the successful delivery of the first month’s events had helped establish Nyaal Banyul as a key business events venue for Geelong and regional Victoria. “Nyaal Banyul is already providing a major boost for regional Victoria, drawing strong interest, and helping grow the region’s visitor economy,”

She highlighted the early economic benefits being generated by increased visitation. “This early success has delivered real benefits for local small businesses and workers, with more people staying overnight and spending in local hotels, cafés, restaurants, shops and local suppliers across the region.”

A new platform for Geelong

The venue’s first month therefore provides an early indication of how Nyaal Banyul could contribute to Geelong’s ambitions as a regional events destination — combining community access with the capacity to host larger national conferences and business events.

Christine Couzens MP, Member for Geelong, also highlighted the broader local significance of the new centre, saying: “Nyaal Banyul belongs to the people of Geelong to share with the rest of the world, all delivered by a Labor government.”

With more than 12,200 attendees already passing through its doors in its opening month, Nyaal Banyul now enters its next phase with an established first-event portfolio and an early indication of its potential to connect Geelong’s community, visitor economy and business events sector.
 

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© COEX Magok Le West

KOREA MICE EXPO 2026 will return to Seoul from 17–19 November, with a stronger emphasis on business conversion, international participation and the technologies shaping the next generation of MICE.

Korea MICE Expo 2026 (KME2026), billed as Korea’s largest MICE industry exhibition, will take place from 17–19 November at COEX Magok, Seoul’s new convention centre in the city’s emerging MICE hub.

Hosted and organised by the Korea MICE Association, with official support from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Korea Tourism Organization and the Seoul Metropolitan Government, the internationally certified exhibition will bring together a broad cross-section of the industry under the theme ‘Define Your Angle, Shape Your MICE’.

The 2026 edition will bring together domestic and international MICE host cities, venues, PCOs and PEOs, hotels, tourism and service companies, and MICE technology businesses. The stated ambition is to use the exhibition as a meeting point for different perspectives and areas of expertise, creating opportunities for new business and partnerships.

From meeting numbers to measurable outcomes

One of the clearest shifts at KME2026 will be in the way its business meetings are structured. The organisers say the emphasis will be on actual conversion and outcomes rather than simply increasing the number of appointments.

International buyers will undergo a rigorous selection process, focusing on companies and organisations with concrete plans to host MICE events in Korea within the next three years. Their decision-making authority and previous event experience will also be assessed.

The domestic buyer programme will bring together MICE-hosting organisations from fields including medicine, science, technology and education, with the scope and scale of participation continuing to expand.

A pre-matching system will connect buyers with relevant sellers according to their requirements, with the objective of improving the effectiveness and commercial results of the meetings.

The exhibition floor will also reflect the increasingly interconnected nature of the MICE sector. Regional tourism organisations from the public sector, regional MICE alliances from the private sector, as well as international organisations and companies, are expected to participate, with networking and business meetings also taking place between exhibitors themselves.

A regional conversation around Sports MICE

The conference programme, MICE WAVE, will feature the second Korea-China-Japan MICE Forum, a private-sector initiative jointly organised by the MICE associations of the three countries.

This year’s forum will focus on Sports MICE, bringing together the participating countries to exchange ideas for collaboration and examine relevant case studies. The wider conference programme will also feature sessions developed with international partner organisations, addressing global MICE trends, transformations within local industries and strategic responses to change.

International organisations participating in the KME Conference will include Encore, ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association), GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) and MPI (Meeting Professionals International), among others.

Putting MICE technology centre stage

Technology will have a more prominent role at this year’s exhibition through the introduction of a dedicated MICE Tech Zone, designed to showcase AI-based MICE technology companies and rapidly growing solution providers.

The new zone will be complemented by the inaugural MICE Tech Awards, which will recognise outstanding MICE technology companies. Entries will be assessed across innovation, applicability in the field and potential for wider industry expansion.

The initiative is intended not only to identify leading technologies but also to create a direct bridge between technology innovators and MICE professionals operating on the ground.

For Danny Hyundae Shin, Chairman of the Korea MICE Association, the event’s ambition extends beyond bringing together a larger number of participants. “KME2026 will be a place where diverse industry players with different roles and angles come together to create new possibilities. Based on highly qualified selected international buyers, a broader range of domestic buyers, and expanded international seller participation, we will focus on the quality rather than the quantity of business meetings and evolve KME into a global business platform encompassing both inbound and outbound business.”

That positioning places KME2026 around a broader idea of the Korean MICE industry as an international business platform — one that connects qualified demand with suppliers while creating space for collaboration across destinations, venues, organisers, hospitality, services and technology.

KME2026 will run from 17–19 November at COEX Magok in Seoul. Booth applications, sponsorship participation and pre-registration are available through the official Korea MICE Expo website, with the early-bird booth application deadline set for 14 August.

AIME has appointed Monica Kent-Giles as Marketing Director and Brooke Campbell as Buyer Engagement Director, expanding its executive team as preparations gather pace for its 2027 edition in Melbourne.

AIME is strengthening its leadership team ahead of its 2027 edition with the appointment of Monica Kent-Giles as Marketing Director and Brooke Campbell as Buyer Engagement Director.

The two appointments expand the executive leadership team as AIME prepares to return to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) from 15–17 February 2027, with the show continuing to build its international reach across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

For Silke Calder, AIME Event Director, who enters her seventh year leading the AIME team, the appointments bring additional expertise and fresh perspectives at a key stage in the show's development.

“AIME continues to grow in both scale and impact, with more of the global community across Asia Pacific and beyond coming together each year to connect and do business. Every year we set ourselves the challenge to raise the bar for the industry. Expanding our executive team with leaders of Monica and Brooke's calibre ensures we can further elevate the quality of our show floor connections and deliver an unrivalled experience for our global community,” she says.

“We are excited to welcome Monica and Brooke to the executive leadership team. They are already making their impact felt, bringing new inspiration and specialised skills that strengthen our overall leadership team as preparations for AIME 2027 continue at pace.”

Marketing leadership with an international perspective

Kent-Giles joins AIME with executive experience spanning brand management, internal and external communications, digital marketing and events across APAC, EMEA and the USA.

An experienced marketing leader, she has worked across a range of industries and held senior roles at News Corp in the UK and Australia, the Recruitment, Consulting and Staffing Association (RCSA), Melbourne Airport and PMY Group.

Her career began at the Melbourne Convention Bureau, giving her an early connection to the business events sector and to AIME's home city.

Kent-Giles says her long-standing experience of the show has reinforced her view of its potential as it enters its next phase.

“Having attended AIME over many years, I’ve experienced firsthand the energy, incredible connections and value the show delivers to the business events industry,” she says. “Stepping into the role at such a pivotal moment is a privilege, and I look forward to further elevating its global presence.”

Buyer engagement at the centre of AIME 2027

Campbell joins the leadership team in the newly created role of Buyer Engagement Director, bringing more than 20 years of experience across hotels, wholesale, corporate, events, convention centres and destination bureaux.

Her previous senior roles include positions at Experience Gold Coast, the New Zealand International Convention Centre and the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the home of AIME.

Her remit will centre on strengthening the buyer journey and ensuring AIME continues to attract high-calibre planners from its key global markets.

“AIME is already the benchmark for business events in our region, and I’ve been fortunate to witness this as a show exhibitor, but we are setting an even higher standard for 2027,” she says. “The strength of AIME lies in how precisely we match exhibitors with a curated group of decision-makers ready to do business, and our focus is on enhancing this to make every meeting on the show floor as productive and impactful as possible.”

The appointments come as AIME continues to position its show floor as a platform for targeted business connections, with buyer quality and the effectiveness of exhibitor meetings remaining central to its proposition.

AIME is delivered by Talk2 Media & Events on behalf of the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) and will return to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 15–17 February 2027.
 

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Brisbane has been selected to host the International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS) World Congress 2027, bringing one of the world's leading gatherings dedicated to reproductive medicine to Australia from 18–21 April 2027. The congress will take place at the Legends Global managed Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) and is expected to welcome almost 3,000 delegates, including clinicians, researchers and policymakers from across the globe.

Held under the theme Global Access and Advances in Fertility Care, the congress will examine the latest developments in reproductive medicine while addressing one of the most pressing healthcare challenges facing societies worldwide. As fertility rates continue to decline in many countries, discussions will span scientific innovation, emerging technologies and equitable access to fertility care.

The programme will explore advances ranging from artificial intelligence in embryo selection to emerging 3D modelling technologies designed to better understand and recreate the biological environments necessary for conception. Alongside these scientific developments, delegates will discuss how fertility care can become more accessible, inclusive and responsive to the changing realities of modern families.

Australia's fertility sector, recognised internationally for its clinical outcomes and inclusive model of care, is expected to provide a strong reference point for discussions, particularly across the Asia-Pacific region. The congress also aligns with the IFFS More Joy campaign, highlighting the social impact of expanding access to fertility treatment.

The successful bid was led by the Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) in partnership with the International Federation of Fertility Societies, with support from Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) and Tourism Australia.

Dr Petra Wale, President of the Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand, said the congress represents an opportunity to advance fertility care through international collaboration.

"Australia has a long history of leadership in fertility care and of openly sharing knowledge with the world. What we've been able to achieve here in terms of strong clinical outcomes, government support and a culture of inclusion, shows what is possible when access to care is prioritised. By bringing the global community together in Brisbane, we have an opportunity to learn from each other, break down barriers and ultimately bring more joy to more people hoping to build a family."

The event is also expected to generate significant economic benefits for Queensland. According to Tourism and Events Queensland, the congress is forecast to contribute approximately AUD 10.8 million to the state's economy while reinforcing Brisbane's position as a destination for major international scientific and medical meetings.
 

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson said: "Bringing the International Federation of Fertility Societies World Congress to Brisbane is a significant win for Queensland, and a strong vote of confidence in our ability to host the world's leading scientific and medical gatherings.

The event is expected to bring close to 3,000 delegates, the majority from overseas and deliver around $10.8 million in economic impact, supporting local jobs, businesses and the visitor economy."

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner highlighted the city's expanding life sciences sector.

"Health is one of Brisbane's fastest growing industries and is forecast to grow by 36 per cent by 2031. Behind every breakthrough in fertility care is a person or family hoping to build their future, and Brisbane is proud to play a role in supporting that journey. By welcoming the world's leading experts to Brisbane, we can help drive new ideas, strengthen global collaboration and improve access to fertility care, while showcasing our city as Australia's lifestyle capital."

Tourism Australia also pointed to the congress as further evidence of Australia's attractiveness for international association meetings.

Sally Cope, Executive General Manager, Industry & Business Events at Tourism Australia, said: "Brisbane's latest business event win highlights the global draw of Australia's world-class health sector internationally. Tourism Australia is proud to have backed this successful bid. To date, our Bid Fund Program has secured more than $1.5 billion in economic value, playing a vital role in locking in a consistent event pipeline through to 2032."

For BCEC, the congress also demonstrates the broader value that international association meetings can generate beyond their immediate economic impact.

General Manager Kym Guesdon said: "We are proud to host a global event that not only advances world-leading research and innovation, but speaks to the experiences of everyday people.

The Congress will provide an important platform for the exchange of knowledge and innovation, connecting leading experts from around the world to help shape the future of fertility care. It is a powerful example of how business events can contribute to meaningful global progress while delivering lasting benefits locally."
 

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For years, India has been viewed by the international association community as a market of extraordinary scale. Increasingly, however, it is emerging as something far more significant: a source of ideas, leadership and institutional innovation. As the country's association ecosystem expands its influence across policy, industry, research and international collaboration, its evolution offers lessons that reach well beyond its borders.

As the Official Media Partner of the 13th India Association Congress (IAC 2026), Headquarters sat down with Prasant Saha, Founder of CIMGlobal, Chairman of this year's Congress and President of APSAE (check out our excluvie interview on HQ #125), to explore the forces driving this transformation. From governance and member expectations to global engagement, impact measurement and the launch of India's first comprehensive association sector study, he explains why the country's associations are entering a defining new chapter and why the global association community should be paying close attention.
 

India is one of the world's fastest-growing economies, yet relatively little is known internationally about the evolution of its association sector. The theme of this year's India Association Congress suggests the sector is entering a period of reinvention. What has fundamentally changed over the past decade to make this a defining moment for associations in India?

For decades, Indian associations have been deeply mission-driven, committed to advancing their industries and professional communities. That purpose remains at the heart of the sector and continues to be one of its greatest strengths.

What has changed is the context in which associations now operate. India's rapid economic growth, expanding domestic market and increasingly influential role in global supply chains have created entirely new expectations. Associations are no longer expected simply to represent members, they are increasingly expected to become catalysts for industry transformation, innovation and national competitiveness.

Today, Indian associations are connecting industry with government, supporting skills development, enabling exports, driving policy dialogue and fostering international collaboration. India is no longer just a market for associations; it is becoming a global contributor to association leadership and innovation. That is why this is such a defining moment. Associations are evolving from mission-driven organisations into strategic institutions that help shape both India's economy and its place in a changing world order.

Association leaders today are also expected to respond simultaneously to AI, regulatory change, sustainability, shifting member expectations and financial pressures. In your view, which of these challenges demands the most urgent leadership attention and where do you think too many associations are still investing their energy in the wrong priorities?

Without question, the greatest challenge is changing member expectations.

Technology, regulation and sustainability will continue to evolve, but members ultimately determine an association's relevance. Today's members expect far more than networking events or annual conferences. They want their association to help them become more competitive, expand internationally, access new markets and prepare for future disruption. Too many associations are still investing their energy in delivering programmes rather than creating measurable outcomes. The conversation needs to shift from "What services do we provide?" to "What transformation do we enable?"

The associations that will lead the next decade are those that place member impact, not activity, at the centre of every decision. That mindset is also what will position Indian associations as respected contributors within the global association community.

"India is becoming not only a destination for engagement but also a source of ideas and global expertise."

And while associations everywhere are navigating these global trends and changing member expectations, India's regulatory environment, economic growth and industrial diversity create a unique operating context. Which challenges facing Indian associations are unique to the country, and how does India's association ecosystem differ from those in more established markets such as Europe or North America?

Historically, many Indian associations have operated on a lifetime membership model, whereas most associations in Europe and North America rely on annual membership renewals. That difference has had a significant impact on organisational behaviour. Annual renewals require associations to continually demonstrate value, innovate and invest in advocacy, education, research and member engagement.

Indian associations have traditionally been highly mission-oriented and community-focused, but many operated with limited professional management structures, formal advocacy programmes and structured member feedback mechanisms.

That is changing rapidly. A new generation of association leaders is embracing professional governance, data-driven decision-making and strategic planning. Rather than simply replicating Western models, Indian associations are building their own approach, combining purpose, entrepreneurship and agility.

As India assumes a larger role in the global economy, its association ecosystem is beginning to offer valuable lessons for others. India is moving from learning global best practices to helping shape them.
 

The Congress venue: Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Kolkata © India Association Congress

Around the world, associations are now expected to contribute to economic development, innovation and public policy, not simply represent professional interests. How are Indian associations evolving from member organisations into strategic partners for government, industry and economic development? Can you share examples where this transformation is already delivering measurable impact?

We are already seeing remarkable examples. The International Solar Alliance, headquartered in India, has become a global platform for advancing renewable energy collaboration. Organisations working in semiconductors, healthcare and space technology are also building international partnerships, influencing policy and contributing to innovation that extends well beyond India's borders.

These organisations demonstrate that associations are no longer simply membership bodies. They are trusted conveners that bring together government, industry, academia and civil society to address complex challenges.

As India continues to grow, associations will become increasingly important in shaping economic policy, strengthening industries and contributing to sustainable development. Their impact is becoming national, regional and increasingly global.

Discussions around the future of associations often remain conceptual. However, concrete data can provide a clearer picture of how rapidly the sector is evolving. Which data points best illustrate the scale and evolution of India's association sector today? 

One of the biggest challenges has been the absence of reliable data. India's association landscape is highly diverse and fragmented, making it difficult to fully understand its scale, maturity and economic contribution.

Recognising this gap, the India Association Congress has undertaken the country's first comprehensive study of the association sector. The report will be launched during the 13th India Association Congress on 7 August 2026.

For the first time, the industry will have a meaningful benchmark to understand where Indian associations stand today and where they are heading tomorrow. We believe this research will become an important resource not only for Indian associations but also for international organisations looking to engage with one of the world's fastest-growing association ecosystems.
 

"India is no longer just a market for associations; it is becoming a global contributor to association leadership and innovation."

As India continues to strengthen its position within the global economy, international associations are increasingly looking towards the country for partnerships, events and long-term engagement. What opportunities does India present for international associations looking to establish stronger ties with the country? 

India represents one of the most exciting opportunities for international associations anywhere in the world.

The country has one of the world's largest higher education ecosystems and ranks among global leaders in scientific research output. The growing volume of research publications, combined with India's expanding innovation ecosystem, creates enormous opportunities for collaboration.

With more than 1.4 billion people, a rapidly growing economy and increasing global influence across multiple industries, India offers international associations opportunities to establish partnerships, develop regional networks, host international congresses and collaborate on education, standards and research.

The opportunity extends beyond market expansion. International associations increasingly recognise India as a partner in knowledge creation, leadership development and innovation. India is becoming not only a destination for engagement but also a source of ideas and global expertise.
 

Associations have traditionally measured success through membership numbers, conference attendance and financial performance. However, there is growing debate around whether these metrics still reflect an organisation's true value and long-term influence. If associations are to remain relevant over the next decade, do they also need to redefine how success is measured? 

Absolutely. Membership numbers, conference attendance and financial performance remain important indicators, but they no longer tell the whole story. The real measure of an association is its impact. Has it strengthened an industry? Influenced policy? Improved professional standards? Supported innovation? Developed talent? Created measurable value for members and society?

Indian associations have always been driven by purpose. That should never change. However, purpose must now be supported by strong governance, financial sustainability and measurable outcomes. The associations that will define the future will not necessarily be the largest – they will be those that create the greatest impact. That is the standard by which associations, in India and globally, should increasingly be judged.
 

The Victoria Memorial in Kolkata © India Association Congress

Lastly, at a time when businesses, governments and institutions face growing public scrutiny, associations occupy a unique position between the public and private sectors. Maintaining trust has become as important as delivering services to members. In an era of increasing polarisation, misinformation and declining trust in institutions, what responsibility do associations have beyond representing their members? 

Associations have an increasingly important responsibility as trusted institutions. They occupy a unique position between government, business, academia and society, making them well placed to facilitate evidence-based dialogue and long-term thinking.

It is equally important to recognise that many association members are small and medium-sized enterprises. These organisations are often the backbone of the economy, yet their voices are not always represented in national conversations. Associations have a responsibility to ensure that businesses of every size have an opportunity to shape industry priorities and public policy. By creating more inclusive platforms for dialogue, they build trust, strengthen industries and contribute to more resilient economies.

Ultimately, associations are not simply advocates for their members. They are architects of stronger industries and stronger societies. As India's global influence continues to grow, its associations have an opportunity (and a responsibility) to help shape not only national progress but also the future of association leadership worldwide.
 

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As India's association sector grapples with AI disruption, regulatory change and mounting pressure to demonstrate member value, the 13th India Association Congress (IAC 2026) is positioning itself as a forum to rethink how member-based organisations operate. Taking place in Kolkata on 7–8 August, the congress will bring together association executives, policymakers and industry leaders to examine how governance, advocacy and innovation must evolve to remain relevant in a rapidly changing environment.

India's association community is facing a period of profound transformation. Digital technologies, changing workforce expectations, sustainability requirements and an increasingly complex regulatory landscape are reshaping how professional societies, trade associations and member organisations deliver value to their communities. Against this backdrop, organisers of the India Association Congress argue that associations must move beyond traditional operating models and become more agile platforms for industry leadership, knowledge exchange and policy influence.

Held under the theme Reset. Rethink. Reinvent – Transforming Associations in India: Navigating Change for Sustainable Impact, the 2026 edition will explore strategies for strengthening governance, improving member engagement, embracing artificial intelligence and developing more resilient funding models. Sessions will also examine regulatory developments, transparency, cross-sector collaboration and long-term institutional resilience: issues increasingly affecting associations across both India and the wider international meetings industry.

More than 300 delegates are expected to attend, representing professional societies, chambers of commerce, federations, non-profit organisations, convention bureaux, government agencies and corporate partners from sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, technology, finance, education and sustainability. The programme combines keynote presentations with executive discussions, workshops, case studies and networking sessions designed specifically for association leaders.
 

Among the confirmed speakers are Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India, Mugdha Sinha, Managing Director of the Indian Tourism Development Corporation, Kamlesh D. Shroff, President of the Association of NSE Members of India, and Dr Shilpa Varma from the India Association for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. The event will also host the Association Excellence Awards, recognising innovation and leadership across India's association sector. 

Kolkata was selected as host city for its longstanding role in India's institutional and commercial development. Home to some of the country's oldest professional bodies and chambers of commerce, the city reflects the congress's emphasis on institutional leadership and cross-sector collaboration. The event is being organised in partnership with the Indian Chamber of Commerce, reinforcing its ambition to strengthen dialogue between associations, industry and government.

The Conference will end with a half day city tour to Kumartuli, one of Kolkata's oldest artisan quarters, renowned for its centuries-old tradition of crafting clay idols of gods and goddesses. Visitors will be able to witness the shaping of the idols from delicate features to elaborate decorations, while experiencing the vibrant energy of workshops alive with creativity. It is a rare opportunity to see one of Kolkata's most cherished traditions unfold before the city's biggest festival.

“The 13th India Association Congress is not just a meeting, it is a movement to redefine how associations lead in a disruptive era. In Kolkata this August, we are turning challenges into blueprints for a resilient, reinvented future,” said Prasant Saha, Chairman of the India Association Congress.

“In an increasingly dynamic global order, strong associations are drivers of economic progress, industrial competitiveness and social transformation. They serve as a vital bridge between government, industry and civil society, by facilitating businesses across the world, and taking care of the people doing the work. India's vibrant association ecosystem has emerged as a key enabler of policy advocacy, capacity building and collaborative growth.

At this pivotal juncture, the India Association Congress 2026 will provide a valuable platform to foster innovation, share best practices and go a long way to help realise the global importance of the Association Sector,” added Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General of the Indian Chamber of Commerce.

Over the years, India Association Congress has built a growing national and international footprint, attracting leaders from India and abroad while strengthening partnerships across industries, destination organizations, government stakeholders, and sectoral bodies. Previous editions have featured distinguished leaders from government, business, healthcare, sustainability, research, and professional communities, including senior policymakers, international experts, and influential voices shaping India’s institutional and industry landscape. 
 

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MEETINGS 2026 has delivered the strongest commercial results in its history, generating a projected NZD170 million in future business—55% more than the previous edition and the highest value recorded since the trade event was established nearly three decades ago.

Held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) in June, the event attracted a record 1,600 delegates, including more than 700 qualified buyers and over 260 exhibitors representing 19 regions. Buyer participation increased by 20% compared with 2025, contributing to the sharp rise in projected business generated through meetings held during the event.

According to the Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), the figures are based on independently verified surveys completed by hosted and day buyers, who were asked to estimate the total value of business they expect to place following the event.

BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins said the results reflect growing confidence in New Zealand's business events sector and reinforce the strategic importance of MEETINGS as the country's flagship trade exhibition.

“This reinforces the positive momentum which is being felt across the sector, with strong interest from both domestic and international buyers to hold business events in New Zealand. It also underscores the importance of MEETINGS as the industry's flagship trade event, connecting the industry with key decision-makers and creating opportunities that translate into future business,” she said.

While the proportion of buyers expecting to place business remained broadly in line with last year's event, the average value of projected bookings increased significantly, resulting in a 55% rise in overall projected turnover.

Hopkins also highlighted the positive feedback received from participants, pointing to the event's continued role in fostering commercial relationships across the industry.

“The strong satisfaction scores from exhibitors and visitors show the quality of the connections taking place and the importance of MEETINGS for building new partnerships and future events,” Hopkins said.

The 2027 edition will mark the 30th anniversary of MEETINGS, a milestone for an event that has played a central role in connecting buyers and suppliers across New Zealand's business events industry for three decades.

“Next year marks 30 years of MEETINGS, a significant milestone for an event that has welcomed thousands of decision-makers, organisers and planners, and resulted in billions of dollars being pumped into New Zealand's economy over the past three decades.”

The 30th edition of MEETINGS will take place at the NZICC in Auckland on 29–30 June 2027.
 

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Melbourne will host RoboCup and the RoboCup Symposium in 2028, after securing one of the world's leading robotics and artificial intelligence events in a bid that further strengthens the city's position as a hub for technology-driven international congresses.

The successful bid was led by the Melbourne Convention Bureau in partnership with the RoboCup Federation, RMIT University and RoboCup Junior Australia, with support from the Victorian Government, Tourism Australia's Business Events Bid Fund and conference organiser ICMS Australasia. Scheduled to take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event is expected to attract up to 3,000 delegates and around 15,000 spectators, generating an estimated economic impact of more than AU$14 million.

Founded to advance intelligent robotics through collaborative, real-world challenges, RoboCup is recognised as the world's largest robotics and artificial intelligence competition. The programme spans autonomous robot football, disaster response simulations, industrial logistics and manufacturing challenges, alongside RoboCupJunior, which introduces school students to robotics and AI through hands-on competition.

The event also reflects Melbourne and the state of Victoria's growing profile in advanced technologies. Home to internationally recognised universities, research institutes, technology start-ups and global industry partners, the region has developed a strong ecosystem across advanced manufacturing, automation, digital technologies and applied artificial intelligence—making it a natural setting for one of the sector's flagship global gatherings.

RoboCup adds to an expanding portfolio of technology-focused international meetings heading to Melbourne, including the inaugural Australian AI Summit in 2026, the IEEE Conference on Virtual Reality and 3D User Interfaces, and the International Conference on Neural Information Processing.

"Victoria is the ideal destination to host this incredible event, which will bring hundreds of world-leading researchers and innovators together and provide a major boost to our visitor economy. As a globally-recognised hub for technology, advanced manufacturing and digital innovation – we have the ecosystem needed to deliver an event like this which will help shape the future of robotics and AI," says Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Sport and Major Events.

"Melbourne is uniquely placed to host RoboCup 2028, combining a globally connected innovation ecosystem with the experience and infrastructure to deliver world-class international events. Bringing the world's brightest minds in robotics to Melbourne strengthens collaboration, inspires future generations and reinforces Victoria's reputation as a destination where innovation thrives," said Julia Swanson, Chief Executive, Melbourne Convention Bureau.

"The RoboCup Federation is delighted to return to Melbourne, which hosted RoboCup as one of the inaugural locations over a quarter of a century ago. The board of trustees unanimously acknowledged the depth and quality of the bid. The RoboCup community is happy to return to Australia!" said Ubbo Visser, President, RoboCup Federation.

"We're thrilled to support Melbourne in welcoming RoboCup and the RoboCup Symposium in 2028 through our Bid Fund Program. This event not only injects significant economic value into the local economy but also cements Australia's position as a premier destination for world-leading technology congresses," said Sally Cope, Executive General Manager Industry & Business Events, Tourism Australia.
 

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As industries accelerate the transition towards more sustainable manufacturing, the challenge is no longer just designing stronger and lighter composite materials, but ensuring they can be responsibly managed at the end of their lifecycle. At ACCM 2026 in Sabah, nearly 200 experts from across the Asia-Pacific region explored the innovations, partnerships and circular solutions shaping the future of advanced materials.

Composite materials have become indispensable to modern industry, making aircraft lighter, electric vehicle batteries safer and countless electronic devices more efficient. But their remarkable durability has also created one of manufacturing's biggest sustainability challenges: what happens when these advanced materials reach the end of their useful life?

That question was at the heart of the 14th Asian-Australasian Conference on Composite Materials (ACCM 2026), which brought together nearly 200 materials scientists, engineers and industry leaders from 13 countries at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) in Kota Kinabalu. Hosted by Curtin University Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and Universiti Teknologi Brunei, the four-day congress explored how the next generation of composite materials can become more bio-based, recyclable and longer lasting.

Supported by the Sabah Convention Bureau (SCB), the event also highlighted Sabah's growing role as a destination for international scientific congresses, demonstrating how knowledge-driven meetings can generate lasting economic, academic and innovation benefits alongside their tourism impact.

"We aren't just looking at how to make materials stronger or lighter anymore; we're asking what happens to them 20 years down the line," said Ts. Dr. Fethma M Nor, Organising Chair of ACCM 2026. "Bringing this level of international expertise together in Sabah allowed us to move past theory and focus on real-world adoption, making sure the next generation of cars, planes and power grids leave a significantly smaller footprint on the planet."
 

International delegates accounted for 93% of participants, travelling from countries including South Korea, China, Japan and Australia. Beyond filling hotels and supporting local businesses, the conference served as a platform for regional collaboration, with delegates laying the foundations for the ASEAN Society for Composite Materials, a new organisation intended to strengthen joint research and knowledge exchange across Southeast Asia.

Outside the conference programme, delegates explored Sabah's cultural and natural attractions through organised visits to the Mari Mari Cultural Village, the Tun Mustapha Tower, the City Mosque and several of the state's renowned islands and national parks, extending the event's economic impact across the local visitor economy.

Speaking during the conference gala dinner, Sabah Convention Bureau Chief Executive Officer Mdm. Noredah Othman underlined the broader significance of attracting scientific meetings to the destination.

"It is an absolute privilege to welcome such brilliant minds from across the globe to Kota Kinabalu," said Noredah. "Events like ACCM 2026 demonstrate that Sabah is far more than a breathtaking eco-tourism destination, we are a dynamic home for world-class innovation. When international experts gather here to solve global challenges, it inspires our local scientific community and creates a lasting legacy for Sabah."

The conference also marked an important milestone for Malaysia's leadership in advanced materials research. Prof. Mariatti was announced as the incoming President of the Asian-Australasian Association for Composite Materials (AACM) for 2028, while the next edition of ACCM will take place on Jeju Island, South Korea.
 

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