The Third International Business Events Forum – BE in SABAH 2026 recorded strong participation from domestic and international stakeholders, reflecting rising regional interest in business events platforms.
Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Dr Andi Md Shamzureezal said the forum highlighted the expanding strategic role of Business Events (BEs) in facilitating regional engagement and connecting markets through structured, outcome-driven platforms.
He said sustained cross-border and cross-sector collaboration is critical to strengthening resilience and competitiveness within the Asia-Pacific business events ecosystem.
Dr Andi was speaking at the closing ceremony of the two-day forum hosted at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
Forum sessions focused on market confidence, governance, technology adoption, talent development and cross-border collaboration, underscoring the evolving expectations placed on business events as economic and professional infrastructure.
The forum also facilitated knowledge exchange and partnership-building among participants from government agencies, international associations, convention bureaux, consulting firms and private sector organisations, reinforcing its role beyond dialogue.
Organising chairperson Datuk Dr Rosmawati Lasuki said the forum remains relevant by building on the outcomes of previous editions.
“The forum’s success is measured not only by attendance, but by the quality of engagement, strengthened relationships and capabilities developed across the regional ecosystem,” she said.
A key outcome was the strengthening of international collaboration through a memorandum of understanding between the Goyang Convention and Visitors Bureau, Goyang International Expo and SICC.
The partnership builds on engagements initiated during Goyang Destination Week and focuses on knowledge exchange, industry development and capacity-building.
The participation of eight junior management representatives from Goyang, led by Dr Peter Lee, further reflected a shared focus on developing future industry leaders through structured exposure and professional exchange.
The collaboration signals continued efforts to deepen ties with South Korea and other international destinations as Sabah strengthens a more connected and resilient business events ecosystem.
