Kota Kinabalu: Sabah is set to bolster its presence in the global business events industry with the upcoming BE in Sabah 2025, scheduled for Feb 27-28, at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), said Sabah Maceos Chairperson Datuk Rosmawati Lasuki.
The forum, themed “Empowering Asia Pacific through Business Events”, aims to bring together industry leaders, innovators and key stakeholders to address challenges, explore emerging opportunities and forge strategic partnerships within the business events (BE) sector, which encompasses meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (Mice).
Rosmawati, who is also the organising chairperson, highlighted Sabah’s growing appeal as a destination for business events.
“Sabah is emerging as a pivotal destination for global business events, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage that complements the well-established business event landscapes in Europe,” she said.
She added that the forum will showcase how the Asia Pacific region can reshape the future of business gatherings.
“Sabah stands at the intersection of nature, culture and commerce, serving as a powerful platform to foster partnerships, unlock new opportunities and redefine the business events industry by integrating Asia Pacific’s distinctive strengths with global perspectives,” she said.
Rosmawati, who is also SICC Chief Executive Officer (CEO), said BE in Sabah 2025 is designed to position the State as a key gateway to East Asean by leveraging its natural attractions and cultural assets to drive sustainable industry growth.
The forum aims to promote leadership development, industry upskilling and strategic business planning to create long-term impact.
The event is expected to attract over 800 delegates, with around 40 per cent coming from international markets, including Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines.
Industry experts such as International Congress and Convention Association (Icca) CEO Senthil Gopinath will deliver keynote speeches and participate in panel discussions.
Other key highlights of the forum include networking opportunities, discussions on sustainable event practices and curated experiences showcasing Sabah’s landscapes and cultural heritage.
BE in Sabah 2025 is jointly organised by the Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (Maceos) Sabah Chapter and SICC, with support from the Government, particularly the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry, Yayasan Sabah Group and the Federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry.
The event underscores Sabah’s growing influence as a business events hub, with organisers hoping to establish a legacy in the industry through collaboration and innovation.
