Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's business events industry continues to strengthen its role in driving economic growth, knowledge development, and global connectivity through stronger collaboration among the government, industry players, and professional associations. Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) secretary-general Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot emphasized Malaysia's position to attract high-impact international conferences, corporate meetings, incentives, and exhibitions through these collaborations.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Shaharuddin highlighted the importance of MyCEB Association Day as a platform that brings together association leaders and the business events industry. The event's theme, "Governing with Purpose. Leading with Impact," underscores the evolving role of associations as strategic partners in driving knowledge exchange and elevating industry excellence.
Shaharuddin reiterated MOTAC's commitment to strengthening Malaysia's business events ecosystem through MyCEB's strategic initiatives, such as expanding international collaborations, accelerating digital adoption, and advancing sustainability practices aligned with ESG principles.
Meanwhile, MyCEB chief executive officer Tan Mei Phing stated that associations serve as key enablers within the business events ecosystem by driving innovation, facilitating knowledge exchange, and attracting international events to Malaysia. She emphasized that associations are catalysts for progress, connecting expertise and shaping industry standards at national and international levels.
Tan noted that international conferences and conventions generate economic value and facilitate the exchange of ideas, technology, and expertise benefiting industries and communities. She shared that MyCEB's Kesatria Malaysia Programme has secured 111 international business events, attracted over 135,000 delegates, and generated approximately RM1.74 billion in economic impact to date. Programs like MyTripleE 3.0 under the "Meet in Malaysia" campaign aim to support organizers in delivering impactful, future-ready events with stronger marketing support, sustainability integration, and technology adoption.
Separately, Malaysia Society of Association Executives (MSAE) president Lydia Abdul Latif emphasized the need for associations to evolve beyond traditional roles and deliver meaningful value to members amid growing industry challenges. She stressed the importance of earning member loyalty through transparency, agility, and tangible values, as members seek value-driven engagement and meaningful outcomes.
Lydia added that MSAE is focusing on expanding its footprint in East Malaysia and elevating professionalism through education initiatives, including plans for a professional certification program for association executives.
According to MyCEB, the fifth edition of MyCEB Association Day 2026 brought together association leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and advance Malaysia's position as a leading business events destination.