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Immersive learning in New York City

800 business events strategists convened in New York City for the PCMA Education Conference held at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel this week and were introduced to immersive learning experiences through six unique locations across the city.

“Rice” to the challenge with these 4 team bonding ideas in Thailand

Sponsored – Bind the core values of Thai culture and its people to your meeting and incentive programme for a creatively themed and knowledge-based experience.

ONYX plans USD100 million expansion in Pattaya

ONYX Hospitality Group has announced plans for the rejuvenation of Amari Pattaya, a brand-new all-suites wing and the 406-room OZO hotel adjacent to the existing hotel.

Agribusiness cultivates a taste for Adelaide

Australian and international associations in the Agriculture, Food and Wine industries take a look at the event opportunities as well as the business reasons for convening in Adelaide.

Case study: i Light Marina Bay 2017

Singapore's biggest festival promoting energy-saving lighting and use of environmentally-friendly materials successfully doubled the attendance, engagement and impression of last year's.

WATCH: Event planners want to be engaged

As the business events industry gears up for Singapore MICE Forum 2017’s re:imagine #EngagE theme, Biz Events Asia talks to event planners at IMEX Frankfurt about their take on engagement. What’s yours?

Sofitel signs milestone project in Dubai

Set to open in late 2019, the 501-room Sofitel Dubai Wafi will become the hotel brand’s largest property in the Middle East and a future flagship for the Sofitel in the region.

Marriot plans to double its luxury footprint in APAC

Marriott International unveiled plans to double its luxury presence in Asia Pacific by adding more than 100 luxury hotels to its current footprint of 113 luxury properties.

How Singapore Tourism Awards MICE winners succeeded with event technology

Among the 31 individuals and organisations recognised at the Singapore Tourism Awards, eight of the awards were dedicated to business events. Biz Events Asia finds out how event technology aided some of the recipients’ success.

Singapore MICE industry veteran Stephen Tan to retire

UBM SES (formerly Singapore Exhibition Services) has announced that Stephen Tan, Chairman of the company since January 2015, will retire from his position effective June 30, 2017.

Penang Waterfront Convention & Exhibition Centre seeks venue operator

IJM Perennial Development Sdn Bhd, the developer of the Penang Waterfront Convention & Exhibition Centre (PWCC) has commenced the search for an international venue operator to undertake sales, marketing, operations, catering, and facilities management.

Marriott announces major 2017 APAC developments

Marriott International is about to make a headway in hotel openings in the Asia-Pacific region once again with the announcement to open nearly 80 hotels and debut two new brands in 2017.

Thailand’s push for market share: a united approach

Bangkok goes from strength to strength with its Bangkok River Partners alliance while in Hua Hin, destination management companies are coming together to push market share for the town.

New website for Business Events Australia

Tourism Australia’s brand new website dedicated to business events will give event planners and incentive travel organisers an enhanced experience and direct access to representative contacts, products, inspiration, and more.

Case study: WorldVentures’ 10th anniversary event

6,000 WorldVentures members from Asia Pacific landed in Hong Kong Disneyland Resort for a four-day premium corporate event to celebrate the direct selling travel club’s 10th anniversary in a mega theme park buyout.

Get Global soars with airline support

A host of global airlines has confirmed their attendance at Get Global trade show, which will take place on July 28 at the International Convention Centre Sydney, demonstrating their confidence in the Australia outbound MICE segment. 

Radisson Blu commits to carbon-free meetings

Radisson Blu is making meetings carbon-free by the end of this year for its hotels worldwide with the launch of Blu Planet for Meetings.

Melbourne dubbed creativity capital of Australia with the launch of innovative business event, C2 Melbourne

Biz Events Asia, 25 Melbourne business events industry professionals and a crowd of cheering, enthusiastic participants attended the official press conference of C2 Melbourne at the 2017 C2 Montreal on Thursday, May 25, 2017.

The Appointment Group – Asia Pacific appoints global events director

Vicky Hartley takes on the role of Event Director, Global Events, Singapore, bringing over 17 years of international experience across hospitality, incentives, conferences, sales, marketing and exhibitions.

The St. Regis opens its ninth Greater China hotel in Shanghai

The much-anticipated launch of The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan opens with sky-high guest rooms, a storied art collection, unique meeting spaces, and more.

5 ways to incorporate TCM into your meetings and incentives

From food and herbs to team building activities, understand what Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is and how it can benefit meeting and incentive planners and groups alike travelling in Beijing.

Cvent extends APAC reach with new offices

Following an increased adoption of meeting and event technology in the Asia-Pacific region, Cvent has announced the opening of new offices in Melbourne and Singapore.

Sascha Hemmann joins Nanuku Auberge Resort Fiji as GM

Nanuku Auberge Resort Fiji, the first all-villa boutique resort on the main island of Viti Levu, has appointed Sascha Hemmann as General Manager, effectively immediately.

Hotel Jen Beijing opens with work and play spaces reimagined

The launch of Hotel Jen Beijing sees a reinvention of workspaces to stimulate collaboration and latches on the new fitness fad with a 24-hour gym providing more than just machines and free weights.

Case study: The 17th Annual Conference of Yabuli China Entrepreneurs Forum 2017

Big ideas for the future were at the heart of the annual Yabuli China Entrepreneurs Forum sessions.

N200|GES expands into Asia and North America

N200|GES, one of Europe’s leading event registration, lead capture and data intelligence businesses, is accelerating its global expansion plans with two senior hires and new offices in Hong Kong and Chicago.

5 new Marriott resorts to launch across Japan this summer

Marriott International and Mori Trust Group, one of Japan’s leading lodging companies, have announced the upcoming opening of five resorts in Japan’s most scenic and lesser-known destinations.

Are companies losing money to corporate travel’s dearth of audit?

New multi-level analysis by BCD Travel finds that failure to use effective audit practices costs companies hundreds of millions of dollars per year in missed hotel discounts.

Case Study: Amway Korea Annual Leadership Symposium

Despite language barriers and explicit dietary requirements, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai got innovative and pulled off a conference and incentive programme for Amway Korea’s 600 high-ranking associates.

New events space over pool at The Ritz-Carlton in Singapore

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore is giving events a refreshed platform with its new 15,000 sq ft (1,393.5 sq m) transparent overwater pool cover.

Disney Explorers Lodge celebrates its grand opening

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) celebrated the opening of the 750-room Disney Explorers Lodge, recognising the support of about 300 travel trade partners at the “Celebration of Sales Excellence 2016”.

BestCities welcomes Madrid Convention Bureau on board

The Madrid Convention Bureau (MCB) has been confirmed as the 12th partner of BestCities Global Alliance at this week’s IMEX Frankfurt trade show, bringing the first destination within the Mediterranean to the alliance.

Melbourne is first in Australia for delegate attendance

Melbourne has officially been recognised by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) as the number one city in Australia for attracting the highest number of attendees to international association meetings held in Melbourne.

Staging Connections hosts new recruitment event

Staging Connections gave aspiring events professionals a taste of how a career in AV and event technology could look like at the new recruitment event, ACCESS AV, dedicated to educating and encouraging attendees to begin their career with Staging Connecti

The business events industry lacks support from their own city

The IMEX Frankfurt opening ceremony’s keynote speaker calls for greater collaboration between the business events industry and their cities.

Singapore refreshes programmes to attract the European market

One of Asia’s leading business events destinations is giving European buyers more incentives to visit Singapore.

Pacific World introduces research-backed experience programme

A team of 30 product developers at Pacific World will monitor industry trends and design experiences to fuel management, boost productivity and bolster relationships.

Sarawak Convention Bureau names its first chief operating officer

Amelia Roziman has been appointed the Sarawak Convention Bureau’s (SCB) first chief operating officer since its establishment in 2006.

ICCA and BestCities team up for association meetings advocacy

To effectively communicate the real value of association meetings, the new ICCA Incredible Impacts Programme is offering associations grants for their future events.

ibtm china opens Hosted Buyer applications for 2017

Business event professionals can now apply as a Hosted Buyer to attend the 2017 ibtm china trade show and get a chance to meet a host of global exhibitors along with over 5,000 global event industry peers.

WATCH: Programme highlights for Singapore MICE Forum 2017

Committee members of the 2017 Singapore MICE Forum talk about what to expect this July, this edition's focus and how things are shaking up at its education sessions.

New online learning portal launched for incentive travel professionals

The SITE Foundation has granted a large fund for the development of a new online education and certification platform.

Andaz sets foot in Southeast Asia with Singapore launch

Come September 2017, Andaz by Hyatt will launch its first property in Southeast Asia with Andaz Singapore, offering a boutique-inspired lifestyle set in the eclectic districts of Kampong Glam and Bugis, and a unique take on its event spaces.

PCMA appoints APAC advisory board member

Angeline van den Broecke, Director of Sales & Marketing for Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), has been appointed to the Professional Convention Management Association’s (PCMA) Asia Pacific Advisory Board to help guide their global expansion.

Rezidor and Carlson Hotels announce new organisational structure

The Rezidor Hotel Group (Rezidor) and Carlson Hotels, Inc. (Carlson Hotels) have announced that they will create a Global Steering Committee to foster greater collaboration and maximise value across both businesses.

etouches acquired by private equity firm HGGC

The acquisition of the global event management cloud software provider by middle market private equity firm, HGGC, is expected to help etouches’ win a greater share of the USD6 billion Event Management Software (EMS) and venue sourcing market.

Talent and Mentor: empowering for success

Two ladies passionate about the hospitality industry tell Biz Events Asia how a supportive mentorship structure made up of the right people can be the catalyst for an all-rounded success.

What to expect at the 18th edition of Korea MICE Expo

The two-day event taking place at Songdo ConvensiA, Incheon, will offer the opportunity to discover Korea MICE Bureau’s expanded event support programme, visit local event venues and attractions in Incheon, Seoul and Gyeonggi province firsthand, and more.

CINZ unveils MEETINGS 2017 social programme

Venues and creative event specialists have lined up a series of spectacular social events for the attendees of MEETINGS 2017 taking place later this month in Auckland.

Eco-conscious Element KL raises the bar for longer-stay experiences

The debut of Marriott's Element brand in Southeast Asia is built to cater to large groups and extended-stay travellers, and raises the city’s standards in sustainable hospitality.

AEROCITY.events adds new members

ibis and Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity join founding partners Pullman & Novotel Aerocity, JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity & Andaz Delhi to represent AEROCITY.events at IMEX Frankfurt.

Programme lineup revealed for Singapore MICE Forum 2017

SACEOS has unveiled a brand new thought-leadership programme that promises a higher sense of engagement for its anticipated 450 delegates at the Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) 2017.

How unique venues alter the predictability of meetings and events

The pressure is mounting for both event planners and suppliers to get creative as participants get savvier by every event they last attended. To engage the audience, more has to be done; the creativity benchmark has to be lifted every single time.

BNDCC to host World Ports Conference

Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center (BNDCC) has been selected as the venue for the 30th International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) World Ports Conference, taking place from May 7-12, 2017.

CWT reveals first brand refresh since 1994

Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) unveiled a new look ahead of the launch of its new global marketing campaign, which revolves around the tagline of “Make the world work for you”.

Four Points by Sheraton debuts in Japan

Marriott International, Inc. has launched the Four Points by Sheraton brand in Japan with the opening of the 199-room hotel in Hakodate, Hokkaido.

Outrigger Phuket appoints Singapore-based MICE Account Director

Anjela Wong has been appointed Account Director, Singapore/Southeast Asia for Outrigger Resorts where she will drive MICE business for the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort.

Southeast Asia’s first Element Hotels appoints GM

Ramesh Ganeson has been appointed general manager to manage Element Kuala Lumpur, the first Element Hotels in Southeast Asia.

New study finds heightened data security concern among corporate travellers

As new travel policies and regulations take shape amidst a challenging aviation security environment, companies are reacting to the need to be securely connected while advocating the modern business traveller experience has become priority.

Case Study: AIA returns to Hong Kong Disneyland for an exclusive Iron Man Experience preview

Hong Kong Disneyland played host to two back-to-back mega events for AIA Hong Kong’s staff and corporate customers. The latter included an exclusive preview of the brand new Iron Man Experience, presented by AIA weeks before its mid-January premiere.

Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 opens

The international midscale brand from AccorHotels has opened its doors in the heart of Sukhumvit in Bangkok as the 19th Novotel in Thailand, this time reflecting the new branding of Novotel.

SITE + MPI Global Forum opens call for speakers

The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) and Meeting Professionals International (MPI) have launched a search for speakers at SITE + MPI Global Forum.

13 hot spots to seek the “muses” of Bali

Bali is often referred to as “The Island of the Gods”, and while the Gods are eternal and unchanging, Bali has seen much change and growth in recent years.

Hotelbeds to acquire GTA

Hotelbeds Group has announced plans for GTA to join its Bedbank business unit to boost operations and geographic footprints, following announcement of Tourico Holidays’ integration with the Group in February.

How changing technologies will accelerate business travel in the next decade

A new report by Travelport and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) sees a 3.7 percent annual increase in business travel globally, with countries emerging from conflict featured high on the list.

Hilton opens first hotel in Jiuzhaigou

Hilton has debuted in Jiuzhaigou, Sichuan Province, with the opening of the 426-room Hilton Jiuzhaigou Resort that showcases the region’s scenic splendour and Tibetan culture.

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre appoints Deputy General Manager

John Burke has been appointed as the new Deputy General Manager Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia, bringing over two decades of experience as a venue operations professional.

CWT launches online business travel tool for SMEs in India

Known as CWT For You, the new web-based business travel solution launched by Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) will allow SMEs in India to better manage travel the way larger corporations have been enjoying.

New contenders up for Singapore Tourism Awards 2017

Following numerous rounds of intense judging over three months, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has announced the 77 finalists of the 2017 Singapore Tourism Awards.

AccorHotels to launch its biggest Mercure property yet

AccorHotels is extensively converting a former Sheikh Zayed Road landmark, which will be rebranded and launched as Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights Hotel Suites & Apartments on May 19, 2017.

Pacific World announces strategic alliance with AONIA

Global DMC and events management company, Pacific World, and Singapore-based boutique events agency, AONIA, will provide increased and enriched offerings and experiences for their global clientele in this new partnership.

Sofitel Kuala Lumpur appoints new key member for F&B

Hailing from Spain, Luis Garcia has been appointed Executive Assistant Manager of Food & Beverage for Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara.

UBM SES chief to step down

UBM SES, formally Singapore Exhibition Services, has announced that Lindy Wee, Chief Executive, will be stepping down and will continue to serve as a Non-Executive Director.

Associated Luxury Hotels International expands global portfolio

The Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) has significantly expanded its membership, adding 45 independent luxury-level meeting and incentive-focused hotels and resorts to its global portfolio.

Should you invest in virtual reality?

Virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality may be gaining widespread interest in the business events industry, but what is the right mix for your branding and engagement needs?

Kerry Hotel to launch as Hong Kong’s first urban resort

The new build 16-storey Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong is the first to open on the Kowloon waterfront since 1995 when it launches on April 28, 2017.

Are you Singapore’s next marketing superstar?

Singapore Tourism Board is offering an incentive to market Singapore.

Watch: CNK Catering on food and event styling

As delegates' tastes evolve, an event's culinary offerings and how they are being presented can make or break the experience. Biz Events Asia speaks to CNK Catering about the importance of getting the food right, and CNK's special take on event styling.

Watch: How can hotels remain creative and maintain loyalty?

Biz Events Asia interviews Natalie Simmons, Global General Manager at cievents and Caroline Gair, Director of Supplier Relations at cievents about what hotels can do to remain creative and retain loyalty in clients in a world of change and uncertainty.

Watch: ICC Sydney Culinary Experience

The culinary experience at ICC Sydney has garnered attention worldwide for the quality of its facilities and cuisine. The video captures some of the convention centre’s culinary highlights that has been gaining recognition among its customers.

Watch: Canberra's Top Secret Famil

Canberra hosted the Top Secret FAM tour for its target audience and showcases what the capital city of Australia has to offer beyond its venues.

Korea sends strong message of interest to Indian business events community

Korea signalled a keen interest in India’s business events community with a promotional “India MICE Roadshow”, held on March 29 at the Taj Palace Hotel in New Delhi.

PCMA releases white paper on The Power of Digital Events

The Freeman-supported and sponsored white paper examines the power of digital events in 2017, which includes insights into adult learning, virtual and hybrid events as an engagement strategy, and the value of second screen technology.

Yokohama to host measurement technology congress

Yokohama has been chosen as the host for the 23rd World Congress of the International Measurement Confederation (IMEKO), which will be attended byapproximately 800 measurement technology experts from all over the globe.

Seoul woos incentive groups with new experience support programme

Corporate and incentive groups heading to Seoul this year may now qualify for its new experience programme support.

Marriott launches first hotel in Fiji

Marriott Hotels celebrated its first hotel in Fiji with the opening of Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, surrounded by 20 hectares of man-made lagoons and featuring the only overwater villas on the mainland.

Pacific World drives emotional engagement with new products and experiences

Pacific World jumpstarted the year with product developments and experiences designed to spur emotional engagement and enhance the effectiveness of meetings, incentives and event programmes.

ibtm china launches search for 2017 Knowledge Programme speakers

ibtm china, taking place in Beijing from August 23 – 24, has launched a search for international speakers to enhance its Knowledge Programme through thought-provoking sessions of interest to the MICE industry.

Dubai welcomes Forever Living mega-incentive group

Dubai has officially welcomed one of its largest ever incentive groups, with more than 12,000 visitors from over 100 countries worldwide arriving for the Forever Global Rally 2017, which took place on April 2 and ends on April 11, 2017.

3 simple and cost-effective ways to kick-start sustainable event practices

Sustainability in events has become more sophisticated over the years and it can be daunting if you have only just started to incorporate some of these elements into your events.

Sibos chooses Singapore for the third time

Sibos has announced that it will return to Boston in 2020 followed by Singapore in 2021, following successful runs in 2003 and 2015.

China’s boundless potential

As the IT&CM China trade show stepped into its second decade, the buzz generated around the two-day show hinted at things to come for the booming business events industry.

IACC and MPI form global alliance

The five-year global partnership between IACC and the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) will benefit members through sharing educational resources and collaborating on research initiatives.

Are you paying enough attention to event design?

The concept of event design is not new to Asia; however, there is a long list of reasons for not investing in the art of event design. Often, the lack of understanding of event design gets misconstrued as the lack of need for it.

FCM Travel restructures management team

New management structure in Asia will allow FCM Travel Solutions (FCM) to leverage regional expertise and spearhead business expansion.

AccorHotels strengthens luxury presence with VeryChic acquisition

AccorHotels is trailblazing the acquisition path once again by acquiring VeryChic, a digital platform for the private sale of luxury hotel rooms and apartments, cruises, breaks and packages.

New Zealand first to celebrate Global Meetings Industry Day

New Zealand will be the first country in the world to celebrate Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID17) this week with a free breakfast event in Wellington.

AYANA Midplaza JAKARTA appoints general manager

The newly rebranded AYANA Midplaza JAKARTA has appointed Philip Ommen to the luxury hotel’s management team as its general manager.

Global millennial summit heads to Sydney

Sydney has been chosen to host the next global Millennial 20/20 Summit, a unique and experiential event that focuses on commerce and business powered by the millennials and future generations.

5 engaging ways to experience Putrajaya

Malaysia’s garden city just 15 minutes south of Kuala Lumpur is reinventing itself to provide conference and incentive groups more reasons to head to the federal territory.

ibtm china on track to expand international reach

ibtm china is on track to increase the number of international exhibitors and Hosted Buyers at its 2017 event with international exhibiting space up 28 percent from last year.

CWT M&E integrates International SOS to its core offering

CWT Meeting & Events boosts its safety and security features for its customers as the only global corporate meetings and events service to include International SOS services as part of its core customer offering.

Cvent reveals top 50 meeting hotels in APAC

Hotels in Singapore and Sydney make it to the top 10 spots in an annual list compiled by cloud-based enterprise event management company, Cvent.

Singapore chosen once again for YPO Edge conference

More than 2,700 young business leaders will head to Singapore in March 2018 for YPO’s landmark annual event, YPO Edge, also known as the largest gathering of chief executives.

AccorHotels in negotiations to acquire Potel & Chabot

Private equity firm, Edmond de Rothschild Investment Partners, and AccorHotels have begun exclusive negotiations with the shareholders of Potel & Chabot Group to acquire the French event company’s entire share capital.

3 “extreme” team building activities for the ultimate bond

From using gamification to virtually reach the peak of Mount Everest to toughing out in mud and drumming at the top of a tower, these three team building activities can effectively build a strong bond that fosters lasting collaboration and trust.

JW Marriott Singapore South Beach officially opens

With a snip of a ribbon, Dr. Koh Poh Koon, Minister of State for National Development and Trade & Industry, officially launches the much-anticipated JW Marriott Singapore South Beach Hotel.

IMEX Frankfurt reinvents itself for 2017

Taking place from May 16-18, 2017 at Messe Frankfurt, Germany, the IMEX Frankfurt 2017 trade show has fine-tuned its programme lineup in response to its exhibitor and delegate feedback.

Hilton debuts in Tibet

Hilton’s first hotel in China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, Hilton Linzhi Resort, opens within the historic King of Gongbo site at an elevation of 3,000 metres.

9 lush benefits of visiting Myanmar during “green season”

Opportunities abound for budget-savvy incentive travel groups heading to Myanmar to discover its untouched beauty from May to September.

The importance of crisis management at events

In times of uncertainty and with an increasing number of incidents occurring globally, risk management has emerged as one of the key priorities when planning for an event.

Adelaide wins its largest incentive group to date

The 3,000 top sales representatives from Pacific (China) Co. Ltd. will give Adelaide a welcome boost to its otherwise quiet period on the calendar this coming June.

Brisbane wins Asia’s largest computer graphics conference

Set to attract 6,000 of the world’s top technical and creative talents, SIGGRAPH Asia will hold its exhibition and conference in Australia for the first time in November 2019.

The big change heading to PCMA’s education conference

Organisers of the PCMA Education Conference have decided to forgo the ease of having attendees attend educational sessions under one roof and instead spread them across New York.

6 tips to avoid an Oscar mix-up at your next event

Human error, probability theory, celebrity distraction – regardless the mitigating explanation behind this mistake, here’s how to avoid a similar blunder at your next event.

Pan Pacific Singapore appoints Director of Restaurants, Bars & Events

Shigeru Tamura brings more than a decade of experience in hotel food and beverage operations in Singapore, Japan and Korea.

Get Global launches support for next-generation event professionals

Australia's Get Global trade show has launched an initiative to give back to young event professionals, working with the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS) to assist the growth and career of its students.

9 ways to leave your heart in San Francisco

Discover how the home of tech giants can capture the hearts of conference and incentive groups.

Malaysia scores Asia Pacific Life Insurance Congress 2017

Genting Highlands in Malaysia is set to welcome over 5,000 insurance professionals and financial advisors to the largest financial services congress in the region.

Pico launches new exhibitor service platform

Pico Far East Holdings Limited (Pico) has launched a one-stop exhibitor service platform which allows for easy matching of exhibitors, designers and fabrication contractors, known as E3 (Easy. Events. Exhibition).

Destination Asia gets website facelift

Destination management company, Destination Asia, has launched its completely redesigned website to offer more insights into its activities taking place in each of its 11 destinations in Asia.

Hibernating the hell out of stress

In the face of stress, how often did we want to crawl into a “hole” and forget about the world? We found you a new concept hotel in Canberra that will make you want to stay in bed all day, as long as you are happy to.

Coex to host Seoul’s first Comic Con

Conferences and events looking to theme up can now leverage on Seoul’s first Comic Con this year from August 4-6, 2017, taking place at Coex.

The Association Specialists launches its first international office in Singapore

Australian association management company, The Association Specialists (TAS), makes its international debut with the opening of its office in Singapore, providing best practices and services to the Asia Pacific association sector.

How to reinvent frequently used destinations

For some meetings and events, there may only be a limited number of destinations that make the cut in terms of safety, infrastructure and industry expertise, often requiring event planners to break new grounds.

Siemens awards travel business to CWT

Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) has won the tender to provide services to Siemens in the European region encompassing 32 countries, after showing a high level of flexibility in meetings Siemens’ needs.

Malaysia selected to host the UFI APAC conference in 2018

Malaysia has won the bid to play host to the 13th UFI Asia Pacific Conference (Open Seminar) next year, triumphing over potential cities in China that were also in the bid run.

Minor Hotels debut in South Korea with AVANI Busan

A management agreement for AVANI Busan Hotel in South Korea has been signed between the hotel developer, UL Group, and Minor Hotels, for the hotel’s scheduled launch in 2019.

KLCC reopens additional multi-purpose space

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) has reopened Hall 6, its 2,600 sq m semi-permanent multi-purpose marquee located adjacent to the Centre, to accommodate larger events.

Tokyo wins bid for 11th SIGGRAPH Asia in 2018

Japan – After years of lobbying, Tokyo has been selected to host the 11th SIGGRAPH Asia in 2018, which was started in Yokohama in 2008 and most recently held in Kobe.

New convention programme in Korea steps up support

The launch of the expanded “Korea Convention Support Program” increases the value proposition to allow international event organisers get more return on their investment.

3 inspiring themed events that made an impact

Themed events come in several types. The most common ones use a broad, easily recognised theme to give guests an instant understanding of the event experience, while a more nuanced theme can be used to highlight business goals and bring a brand to life.

How to make your events more sustainable

Biz Events Asia takes a leaf from events and exhibitions around the globe to identify ways to produce your events with minimal environmental, social and economic impact.

5 diverse event venues in Penang event planners should know about

Penang’s fascinating fusion of its colonial past and vibrant multicultural heritage spawned a varied range of event venues few and far between anywhere else in Malaysia.

Warm welcome sets New Zealand apart

New Zealand’s new visa programme for business events and niche knowledge areas will be key selling points as the country competes for international business events, according to the Professional Convention and Management Association (PCMA).

Mercure Singapore Bugis celebrates grand opening

The 395-room Mercure Singapore Bugis officially launches in the heart of Bugis and Bras Basah, a heritage enclave within walking distance of the Central Business District and Orchard Road.

etouches acquires Loopd to boost event success

etouches, global provider of cloud event management software, announced the acquisition of Loopd, a SaaS start-up that uses data-driven technology to enhance attendee experience.

South Africa to receive USD7 million to boost business event bids

Direct from Meetings Africa 2017 – New bidding fund approved by the National Treasury will give South Africa’s business events industry the extra muscle to bid for international association conferences, meetings, incentives and exhibitions.

4 stylish venues with a difference in Hong Kong

Stunning venue settings make for a great event backdrop, add character and aid event planners with theming. Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong has released a list of diverse establishments to create memorable occasions.

Get Global partners with Biz Events Asia

Australia – Get Global, the first business events trade show in Australia dedicated exclusively to outbound products has announced Biz Events Asia as the official media partner.

Delve into: the iridescent beauty of Ha Long Bay

Set in the north of Vietnam, Ha Long Bay (or Halong Bay) is one of the most popular UNESCO World Heritage sites in the region, and it’s not difficult to see why.

5 ways to win event sponsorships through better communication

Sponsors need to know exactly what’s in it for them. Create winning proposals by making an impact and reshaping your persuasion structure to deliver great results.

Record attendance at PCMA’s 2017 Convening Leaders

Global – The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) raised the bar at its 2017 Convening Leaders in early January, attracting a record 4,175 delegates to the event in Austin, Texas.

Melbourne Convention Bureau releases future of meetings report

Australia – Reputable industry bodies document 25 years of change in the meetings industry to predict the way meeting participants will communicate, and the elements that will impact the industry in the next few years.

4 budget-savvy tips for business traveller satisfaction

Global – Leverage on data-driven business travel insights to find creative ways to strengthen corporate programmes while making trips more productive and travellers more satisfied.

A business and leisure collaboration

Biz Events Asia and World Travel Magazine have entered a collaboration tailored for the “bleisure” travel trend in 2017.

AIME 2017 show floor highlights

Australia – The Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME), held from February 21 – 22, will celebrate its 25-year history with show floor highlights that will immerse visitors into the AIME culture.

Hyatt House to arrive in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia – Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to launch its first Hyatt House property in Malaysia. Located in Mont’Kiara near central Kuala Lumpur, the 298-room hotel is expected to open in 2017.

What to expect at... Meetings Africa 2017

South Africa - A growing presence from the Indian and Chinese market, a push in innovation and dialogue, and a focus on sustainability is set to propel the Meetings Africa trade show this year.

Demand for collaborative technologies in events not met by venues: IACC

Global – As the demand for more impactful events rises, are venues and event planners investing enough on technological tools to help deliver more interactive events?

4 venues with a difference in Singapore

There are numerous factors that contribute to an impactful event, and choosing the right venue is one of them. Here are four unique venues in Singapore that gravitate towards the unconventional to amp up the wow factor.

Australia profiles China’s incentive travel market

Australia – Tourism Australia has released new research profiling new demands and insights on current trends for China’s incentive travel patterns driven by repeat incentive travel groups.

KLCC wins bid for World Cancer Congress 2018

Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) is set to be the venue for the Union for International Cancer Control’s (UICC) World Cancer Congress 2018.

Seoul to host one of the largest composites conferences in Asia

Korea – The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) has signed a MoU with JEC Group, the largest composites industry organisation in the world, to co-orperate on attracting overseas buyers and hosting tour programmes prior to the JEC Asia 2017 conference.

Grand Hyatt Hong Kong appoints GM

Hong Kong – Grand Hyatt Hong Kong is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Greaves as General Manager, effective March 1, 2017.

Tourico Holidays joins Hotelbeds Group

Global – Hotelbeds Group and Tourico Holidays have joined forces to drive innovation in the B2B Bedbank space, combining companies with complementary geographic footprints.

8 event marketing best practices to attract conference attendees

Conference attendees register based on the quality of content and speakers, as well as the engaging factors that make the event compelling. Here are eight simple steps to ensure your event marketing brings you to the finish line.

New Finnish unique venue concept heads to Singapore

Singapore – A new Helsinki-based “hotel without bedrooms” event venue concept has made its way into Singapore. Here’s a sneak peek inside Huone Events Hotel before its February 23 opening and why it is bound to disrupt the local meetings industry.

Korea hosts largest incentive group from Indonesia

Korea – The country’s winter attractions have attracted 1,154 Millionaire Club Indonesia (MCI) employees to embark on an incentive tour in Korea, including designated venues for the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games.

ibtm events forms partnership with ILEA

Global – ibtm events has announced its partnership with the International Live Events Association (ILEA) to collaborate on future projects that will extend the global access of new markets to both parties.

euromic makes strides into Asia

Asia – Global events and destination management partnership, euromic, a non-commercial association, has announced an expansion of its network services into two Asian destinations: South Korea and Taiwan.

The Siam adopts in-room Portier Technology

Thailand – The 39-room luxury retreat, The Siam, located in Bangkok’s royal Dusit district now offers in-room Portier Technology, an all in one mobile solution that benefits business and leisure guests alike.

Associated Luxury Hotels acquires Worldhotels

Orlando-based Associated Luxury Hotels (ALH), parent company of Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) has acquired Worldhotels for undisclosed terms, significantly expanding its global footprint in Asia Pacific.

New findings show high motivational impact of incentive travel in India

India – The Society for Incentive Excellence (SITE) has released results of a new study that provides planners a deeper understanding of how to design engaging and motivating incentive programmes for participants in India.

What to expect at... IMEX Frankfurt 2017

Germany – Attending IMEX Frankfurt trade show? Here is what to expect for the new, extensively researched and redesigned IMEX Association Day programme taking place on May 15, 2017.

AIME launches social media competition

Australia – Titled #UncoverMelbourne, hosted buyers and visitors attending the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) can take part in this social media challenge to win prizes for the most creative entries.

4 new senior appointments at Ritz-Carlton Singapore

Singapore – The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore has announced new appointments across its Food & Beverage and Sales teams as well as the appointment of Renato De Oliveria as Hotel Manager.

SACEOS launches professional education programme

Singapore – The Singapore Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS) introduces #Educate, an industry-leading professional education content now available for all industry professionals throughout Asia.

5 business event trends that matter

Global - We highlight five trends for meetings, incentives and events from Pacific World's Trends Report as identified by the company's global destination experts.

A Fijian incentive escapade

Fiji – The archipelago on the South Pacific is cashing in on the burgeoning demand from Asia for its compelling heritage, diverse product offerings and purity of resources.

IHG debuts in Laos with Crowne Plaza Vientiane

Laos – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has marked the group’s foray into Laos with the opening of the 197-room Crowne Plaza Vientiane, the capital’s first internationally-branded upscale hotel.

New appointments at Destination Asia China

China – Destination Asia announced the promotion of two key executives – Kaci McAllister to General Manager of Destination Asia China and Karen Cheng to Deputy General Manager of their Shanghai office.

AVANI appoints Alejandro Bernabé as Group Director

Thailand – Alejandro Bernabé has been appointed Group Director of AVANI Hotels & Resorts, bringing with him over 20 years of global hospitality experience including years of practical operational and Food and Beverage experience.

Australia secures world’s largest space conference

Australia – Come 2020, Sydney will host the 43rd Scientific Assembly of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR), which was last held in the Southern Hemisphere in 1974.

Benchmark set for hotel sustainability in Asia Pacific

Comprehensive new data by travel and hospitality sustainability consultancy and research firm, Greenview, identifies eco-friendly hospitality practices and sustainability measures from Asia Pacific and around the world.

Penang releases its first business events review

Malaysia – The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) has released its first ever business events industry review to provide a summary of PCEB’s activities in their first year of operations and insights on factors affecting the industry.

IT&CM China lists lineup of networking opportunities

China – Taking place in Shanghai from March 21-23, 2017, the IT&CM China trade show has listed a number of networking events by international and local sponsors.

3 fresh ideas for team building

Team building, when done right in an organic way, can be one of the best investments for a company to make. Here are three destinations with fresh team building activities to foster those feel good vibes that result in all the benefits of a greater bond.

Case Study: Pico showcases fresh ideas for Mercedes launch

Hong Kong – Pico designed, built and project managed the two-day launch event of the new 5.5 t Mercedes-Benz Sprinter panel van, and drove home the core messages of “lighter weight, higher payload and better performance”.

ASEAN ministers vote to adopt Thailand MICE Venue Standard

Thailand – All 10 ASEAN tourism ministers have voted for Thailand, through the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), to lead the development of the ASEAN MICE Venue Standard (AMVS).

4 key trends to redesign your event experience

Event participants are getting more selective with the events they attend. Leverage on these four key trends to change the way you design your event with the participants’ interest at heart.

3 must-knows to close an event deal

Maintaining relationships are at the core of every business. Here's what every venue sales professional and event planner need to know to form successful relationships and retain customer loyalty.

AccorHotels appoints Deputy Chief Executive Officer Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific – Louise Daley has been appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer Asia Pacific, working closely with Chairman and CEO Michael Issenberg and the executive team.

New chairman and board members appointed to the Singapore Tourism Board

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) recently went through several board changes, including the appointment of a new Chairman.

Dream Cruises to home-port Genting Dream in Singapore

It will be a first for the country to host a new and large-scale cruise ship year-round when the luxury cruise liner ports its inaugural vessel, Genting Dream, in Singapore from December 3, 2017.

Japan’s venue boom and other incentive ideas

This hardworking nation does not stop. From a new reward programme for incentive groups to new cultural experiences and heritage venues, here are some of Japan’s latest updates in the business events sector.

Sofitel Singapore City Centre appoints DOSM

Singapore – Set to open in the second quarter of 2017, the 222-room Sofitel Singapore City Centre has announced the appointment of Freddy See as Director of Sales & Marketing.

Centara to develop its first property in Dubai

UAE – Centara Hotels and Resorts (Centara) has entered a joint venture with Dubai developer, Nakheel, to develop an AED500 million (USD136 million), 550-room development on the Deira Islands in Dubai.

JW Marriott set to open on Phu Quoc island

Vietnam – The 243-room JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort and Spa is set to launch on January 25, making it the first international luxury hotel brand on Phu Quoc island.

Radisson Blu launches first international hotel in Faridabad

India – Radisson Blu Faridabad opens as the first international hotel in the city of Faridabad, catering to business and leisure travellers with a spacious Grand Ballroom for up to 1,000 guests.

AccorHotels restructures major lease portfolio in Australia

Australia – AccorHotels has reached an agreement with a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) to restructure a portfolio of 31 hotels and 4,097 rooms in Australia.

PCMA seeks growth with new regional advisory boards

Global – The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) has announced the formation of Regional Advisory Boards for the EMEA and APAC regions to develop its presence in these markets.

What’s new and upcoming in Australia

Australia - Following a short video introduction on the latest business event activities in Australia, we have compiled a list of upcoming event and venue updates down under.

AIME trade show tender

Australia - The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) is inviting expressions of interest from exhibition and event organisations to undertake the management and operation of the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) 2019 – 2020.

Pan Pacific Hotels Group CEO resigns

Singapore - Pan Pacific Hotels Group has announced the resignation of Bernold O. Schroeder, its Chief Executive Officer, with effect from January 1, 2017.

The meaning of trust in the collaborative economy

Guest speaker Rachel Botsman at this week’s PCMA Convening Leaders 2017 conference spoke about the power of collaboration and trust enabled by technologies, and gave audiences much to ponder about trust in the digital age.

Marina Mandarin Singapore appoints new DOSM

Singapore – Eileen Khew has been appointed as the new Director of Sales & Marketing for Marina Mandarin Singapore, following her four years as Area Director of Sales & Marketing for Far East Hospitality.

CSR initiatives in Sarawak amplifies yield of business events

Malaysia – Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes in Sarawak attached to business events drive sustainable change and development to local communities, while creating engaging, on-the-ground experiences for delegates.

Planning an event that stands out

As an event planner, you need to hope for the best but prepare for the worst. These practical steps can help create an event strategy that will make a world of difference in the way you manage your events and the experience your attendees will take away.

Sustainable destinations: it's all about making the right choice

Business event destinations across the world are now rated for their sustainability practices. MCI’s Jennifer Ching tells us why it matters more than ever.

Pacific World strengthens offerings in Indian Region with new regional director

India – Naveen Rizvi, the new Regional Director for Pacific World India - Indian Ocean Region, shares some of the event and destination management company’s recent developments.

The Ritz-Carlton Guangzhou unveils new ballroom

China – The Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou has unveiled its new, pillarless 1,200 sq m Grand Ballroom making up a total of 3,300 sq m of banquet and event space at the hotel.

Green talk: go offline with tech-savvy millennials

Want to communicate your sustainability commitments to digital-led millennials effectively? Forget the internet, organise live events instead.

New general manager appointed for St. Regis Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia – The newly appointed general manager at The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur brings more than a decade of experience in Asia’s luxury hospitality industry, and was most recently the hotel manager at The St. Regis Bangkok.

PCMA to broadcast Convening Leaders sessions live to Asia

Asia – For the first time, the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) will broadcast its flagship event “Convening Leaders” from Austin, Texas, to business event professional in Asia.

Island Nights

Complete your event with Singapore’s vibrant gourmet and entertainment scene.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and more team-building attractions to open by 2022

Abu Dhabi – Miral and SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. have announced their partnership to develop a next-generation marine life themed park on Yas island by 2022, making it the first SeaWorld outside of the United States.

Major congresses secured following bumper year for Korea

Korea – Korea MICE Bureau concludes the year with global meetings ranking climbs, mega rotary event and major congress bid wins, and more for the years ahead.

Tourism New Zealand appoints new chief executive

New Zealand – Chair for Tourism New Zealand has announced the appointment of Stephen England-Hall to the position of Chief Executive, who joins after three years as Chief Executive at Loyalty New Zealand.

Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort to debut in April 2017

Cambodia – The 233-room Courtyard by Marriott Siem Reap Resort marks the launch of the first Marriott International branded hotel in Cambodia, near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Archaeological Park.

Hyatt launches first property in Fuzhou

China – Hyatt Regency Fuzhou Cangshan has opened as the first Hyatt property in the capital of Fujian Province, offering 226 rooms with unobstructed views of Wulong River and the Qi Mountains.

FCM Travel reveals business travel trends for 2017

Global – Bertrand Saillet, General Manager at FCM Travel Solutions SEA identifies business travel growth trends in a heightened volatile market impacted by unexpected world events.

Hilton Singapore unveils refurbished MICE spaces

Singapore – Hilton Singapore launched its newly refurbished Ballroom and Pre-Function Space, with designs by FBEYE International that reflect the unique sculptural façade of the hotel.

Artyzen hotel to launch at Sifang Collective in Nanjing

China – Artyzen Hospitality Group has announced the signing of its second hotel in China, a 200-room property set within an "architectural wonderland", the Sifang Collective complex, just 30 minutes away from Nanjing.

Strong associations lead to more conferences

Asia Pacific has strong potential to run more conferences generated from within the region.

Finland celebrates 100 years of independence with slew of events

Singapore – Finland, home of Europe’s leading startup event, Slush, will celebrate its centenary year of independence in 2017 with events planned by Finnish embassies, companies and partners globally, starting with Singapore.

Suntec unveils events debuting in 2017

Singapore – Suntec Singapore unveiled its roster of 88 key events for 2017 that includes a number of large international and local conferences and exhibitions that will be held in Singapore for the first time.

Meet green: organising events with purpose

Great achievements are rarely the result of a single action of an individual, and events provide that space to achieve productivity in the spirit of altruism.

Changing issues for professional conference organisers

Getting things done in Asia according to international expectations often loses something in translation. Being aware of these gaps is a first step to resolving misunderstandings.

Tips to make your event marketing successful

How you engage and the way you approach your target audience matter.

Marriott announces Southeast Asia's first Element Hotels

Malaysia – Built Green from the ground up, Marriott International’s eco-conscious Element brand debuts in Southeast Asia with the launch of Element Kuala Lumpur.

Three uniquely Okinawan event venues

Japan – As Okinawa charges ahead with tourism development plans, these unique venues continue to lure events that seek to enthral with the island’s mysterious natural wonders and original blend of Japanese hospitality.

What venues do that drive planners mad

It was an interesting change in perspective when Ciara Feely, a hotel conference sales specialist, shared the responses she got from a group of event planners on what their suppliers do to drive them mad.

AIME launches new city experiences for buyers

Australia – Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) has partnered with venues, accommodations and attractions to launch ten new Melbourne City Experiences for hosted buyers at the 2017 Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME).

SACEOS appoints management roles

Singapore – Janet Tan-Collis, President for the Singapore Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS), has announced two key roles to help shape the country’s business events landscape.

Sofitel Singapore City Centre names GM

Singapore – Wouter De Graaf has been appointed General Manager of the soon-to-open Sofitel Singapore City Centre, a flagship hotel of Sofitel Luxury Hotels and Resorts at the heart of Tanjong Pagar.

Grand Kempinski in Shanghai adds meeting spaces

China - The Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai has announced the addtion of a new multi-functional event and conference rooms, like the exclusive Grand Suncuba Ballroom and eight more elegant conference rooms: the Huangpu Room.

New Portfolio Director appointed for ibtm events

Global – Reed Travel Exhibitions has appointed Kerry Prince as the new Portfolio Director for ibtm events, following the departure of Sallie Coventry.

Greener events in the palm of your hand

Thinking of going more sustainable for your event but don’t know where to start? Your smartphone is the perfect start.

Antwerp launches new meeting space with a zoo

Belgium – A new convention centre in Antwerp recently opened in one of the world’s best preserved and award-winning 19th century zoos, The Flanders Meetings & Conventions Centre (FMCCA), or A Room with a ZOO.

Event technology trends for 2017

Global – Event and digital marketing heavyweights share insights on research-backed trends that will define 2017 decisions around event technology, social media, meeting design, venues and destinations.

Banyan Tree and AccorHotels announce strategic partnership

Global - Banyan Tree Holdings has entered a long-term partnership with AccorHotels to develop and manage Banyan Tree branded hotels around the world.

The Appointment Group makes major acquisition in Australia

Australia – The Appointment Group Asia Pacific (TAG) continues to expand its presence with the acquisition of Axis Events, a major Australian event management company founded by events industry leader, Paul Christie.

Case Study: BMW makes an electrifying splash at the FIA Formula E HKT Hong Kong ePrix

Hong Kong - It was history in the making when the FIA Formula E Championship announced a race in Hong Kong for 2016. BMW envisioned a series of events and activities to complement the race and highlight its new electric cars.

Hilton debuts in Bali with cliff-top hotel

Indonesia – Hilton Hotels & Resorts debuts in Bali with Hilton Bali Resort, offering extensive recreational and event space set atop a 40-metre cliff in the Nusa Dua beach area.

InterContinental brand to debut in Vientiane in 2021

Laos – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced its management agreement with Lao International Development Co. Ltd. to open InterContinental Vientiane, the first InterContinental hotel to launch in Laos.

AYANA to take over InterContinental MidPlaza Jakarta in 2017

Indonesia – AYANA Resort and Spa Bali expands its luxury portfolio with the rebranding of InterContinental MidPlaza Jakarta to AYANA Midplaza JAKARTA with effect from April 1, 2017.

Event planners offer advice for groups heading to Japan

Biz Events Asia finds out from a group of Asia-based business event buyers the advice they would offer based on a recent educational visit to Japan.

Meetings safety and security

The issue of safety and security is prevalent in every meeting and event professionals’ minds. Here’s a look at some of the issues and risk management best practices identified by a group of key industry players at the ibtm world trade show.

Myanmar offers visa exemption and deals for Singaporean travellers

Myanmar – Leading up to the first Myanmar Tourism Festival in Singapore in January 2017, Myanmar Tourism Marketing (MTM) has stepped up its efforts with visa exemptions and travel packages for Singaporean travellers.

Destination Asia Malaysia launches PCO division

Malaysia - Destination Asia Malaysia has announced the opening of a new professional conference organiser (PCO) division to meet the growing demand for specialist management of conferences and events in Malaysia.



Cvent gets acquired by Vista after merger with Lanyon

USA – Travel and event technology companies Cvent, Inc (Cvent) gets acquired by Vista Equity Partners (Vista), following the merger with Lanyon Solutions, Inc (Lanyon).

ibtm world: 8 ways to increase participant engagement at events

Becki Cross of Events Northern Ltd presented eight tactics to better engage attendees at the Innovation Zone of the ibtm world 2016 trade show.

ibtm world: 2017, are you doom or bloom?

ibtm world kicked off with a full audience pensively waiting for the 2017 Trends Watch Report by Dr. Rob Davidson of MICE Knowledge.

Debunking the myths about sustainable events

Why is it so difficult to get clients on board with sustainability? MCI’s Group Sustainability Consultant Pranav Sethaputra discusses three common myths of events run in an eco-friendly way.

Top 10 trends for APAC meetings in 2017

Asia Pacific – Survey respondents in Asia Pacific project optimism in meeting activity and predict more varieties of meetings and little change in overall budgets.

Jupiters lights up Gold Coast with façade projection system

Australia – Jupiters Gold Coast has unveiled one of Australia’s largest permanent outdoor projection systems comprising 17 projectors that beam moving imagery onto the property’s façade each evening.

Forget coaching. Transport your guests like VIPs

Global - As the business events industry gears up for its year-end parties, Uber has launched UberEVENTS to ease the holiday season.

Autograph Collection Hotels adds four properties in Asia

Asia – Marriott International will debut four new Asia properties in 2017 under Autograph Collection Hotels, its curated portfolio of independent hotels in exotic locations.

The unstoppable rise of bogus association meetings

The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), well known for its stringent membership criteria has recently detected that some meetings listed might not be all that they seem.

The importance of public-private partnerships

Collaboration between the government and private sectors create an ecosystem of support that a destination needs to incubate economic growth. With sufficient resources, these two destinations are upping the ante to drive business into their countries.

Association leaders share why Singapore is winning bids

In its 10th year of the Conference Ambassador Programme, the Singapore Exhibition and Convention Bureau hosted a panel discussion where luminaries from their respective associations shared insights from their international conference bidding experience.

Hilton Brisbane launches renovated conference and events space

Australia – Hilton Brisbane partnered with Staging Connections to unveil its AUD4 million (approximately USD3 million) upgrade at a launch party for 25 professional conference organisers.

Perfect harmony at The Datai Langkawi

Malaysia - Biz Events Asia heads to The Datai Langkawi and finds out why it is more than a haven for nature lovers, and offers a one of a kind experience for meetings and incentives.

AIME reveals Up Close and Personal session speakers

Australia – The Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) has announced its lineup of influential personalities as speakers for its series of five Up Close and Personal education sessions.

Associations on fire – partnership and association challenges

What really matters to association organisers.

Growth trend continues for Canberra’s business events

Australia – Canberra Convention Bureau’s 2015/2016 annual results projected a 10.1 percent growth from businesses won for the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

AccorHotels stages its biggest showcase yet

Singapore – AccorHotels is set to celebrate its biggest and best hotel exhibition, AccorHotels Showcase, at the Raffles Convention Centre in November 24, 2016.

The Star Sydney creates new management role

Australia – Dino Mezzatesta joins The Star Sydney in a newly created position to oversee key property enhancements and assets.

Collaborative meetings at ICCA 2016

Malaysia - The 55th ICCA Congress kicks off with a panel of experts discussing how second-tier cities can be a force to be reckoned with when experience is kept at the heart of meeting design.

Star-Struck Singapore

Sponsored - Singapore’s thriving dining scene recently got a sprinkle of Michelin stardust, giving more delectable reasons to hold meetings and incentive trips in this food haven.

Growing Seoul MICE Alliance boosts city’s competitiveness

Korea – The Seoul MICE Alliance (SMA) gained 36 members in October, strengthening the city’s business events support ahead of the SMA Annual Meeting on November 24, 2016.

Pan Pacific Hotels appoints Area General Manager, China

China – Romain Chan moves from Ningbo to Suzhou to helm as Area General Manager, China and General Manager for Pan Pacific Suzhou.

Trumping green events

Events-related industries have come a long way in recognising their ecological impacts. In light of an upcoming change in the American administration that does not favour climate change policies, can we maintain a positive outlook on sustainability?

Let #fearlessness be your leadership trump card

The world had a lot to take in yesterday when the newsfeed was clogged with articles and comments about the outcome of the American election. Many were angry, some feared for their safety, while others turned it into comic relief.

cievents designs Emirates marquee at Melbourne Cup

Australia – Strategic events agency cievents took inspiration from Australia’s local destinations to create the Emirates marquee at Melbourne Cup 2016.

Powering partnerships

IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific 2016 trade shows concluded in Bangkok, Thailand, with increased collaboration and a shifting trend in corporate travel.

Closing the gap between academia and the real world

Singapore – To build a sustainable and quality workforce, the business events industry has been focusing on closing the gap between theoretical learnings in school and the practical realities of the working environment.

7 sustainable venues event organisers should know about

Venues with sustainability credentials and practices already in place not only ease the reporting process of an event’s impact and save costs, it can also enhance a brand’s reputation and commitment to sustainability efforts.

New transit visa allows travellers to explore Qatar

Qatar – From November 1, travellers with layovers of more than five hours in Hamad International Airport can request for a complimentary transit visa for up to 96 hours.

It’s time to slow down

Sleepless. Breathless. Worry. Stress. Key words that may underpin the statement “I am busy” city dwellers so often make. Ever sang a slow love song in rapid rhythm and it sounded completely wrong or the lyrics are not as meaningful as they were intended?

Oakwood Worldwide launches Guest Mobile App in APAC

Asia Pacific – Oakwood Worldwide has rolled out its Guest Mobile App which provides access to reservation information and guest services on a single platform to guests in the Asia Pacific market.

ONYX Hospitality Group enters Laos with three Amari hotels

Laos – ONYX Hospitality Group marks its entry into Laos with a partnership agreement with Tang Charoen (TCR) Group Co., Ltd. to manage three new Amari hotels.

Qatar Tourism Authority Supplement 2016: Soaring above expectations

Read about how Qatar is rapidly becoming one of the world’s leading destinations for business events and incentive travel.

Mövenpick continues expansion into Bangladesh

Bangladesh – Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts strengthened its presence in South Asia with the signing of the 240-key Mövenpick Hotel Khulna, its third hotel in Bangladesh.

Keeping the audience in the heart of meeting design

To sustain delegate interest and engagement, event organisers cannot afford to ignore the layout, breaks, and engagement in meetings.

Show me the money: when incentive expectations run high

With expectations often beyond what budgets can bring, the pressure is on incentive planners to deliver memorable and stunning programmes that engage both hearts and minds.

Customer service is key to brand success in Asia

Sincere and authentic customer service will help brands stand out in Asia’s competitive business landscape today, writes Neeta Lachmandas, Executive Director, Institute of Service Excellence, Singapore Management University.

IHG to build new Holiday Inn & Suites in Penang

Malaysia – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed an agreement with Exopuri Development Sdn Bhd to develop the tallest building on mainland Penang, Malaysia.

Best Western Premier to launch atop Genting Highlands

Malaysia – Best Western Premier Genting Ion Delemen is set to open its doors by the end of 2016 to 246 rooms and more than 1,000 rooms in 2018 as the destination prepares to welcome a 50 percent rise in visitors by 2020.

Takasaki city brings business expo to Singapore

Singapore - On November 18, 2016, the Japan Business Expo – Takasaki Day will showcase 14 prominent businesses and tourism opportunities in Takasaki city at the Pan Pacific Singapore.

Client says: Communication is key to incentive delivery

Familiar with cievents’ dazzling delivery of the Flight Centre Limited Global Ball? cievents share from the perspective of a client the key elements of a successful incentive programme.

What venue operations need to know about managing incentives

Sydney-based business events legend Malu Barrios shares her perspective gained from over 30 years of experience managing incentives and large-scale events.

Forget orange – meeting design is the new black

Two business events veterans are injecting new meaning into meetings by turning the attention towards creative and thoughtful meeting design.

How to invest in your middle managers

Thomas Wai, Regional Director, Asia Pacific at global talent powerhouse Talent Plus, offers seven effective strategies.

HARMAN debuts its Customer Experience Centre in Singapore

Singapore – The newly unveiled HARMAN Customer Experience Centre in Singapore will allow customers to explore the latest innovations and learn how HARMAN technologies are being connected globally.

Nanyang Polytechnic develops digital talent with Suntec Singapore

Singapore – Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP) and Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre (Suntec Singapore) entered a two-year partnership whereby Interactive & Digital Media students will produce creatives through internship opportunities and industry

CWT forecasts volatility in the ERM sector in 2017

Global – The Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) 2017 Energy, Resources and Marine Forecast highlighted trends in key sectors and what to expect from airfares and hotel room rates in major markets.

Great trends add value to business events in Korea

Korea’s ability to leverage the latest pop culture hype has propelled it to a popular tourist and business events destination.

How can SMEs remain competitive?

With small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) renowned for personalised service but often constrained by resources, there is a key trait in talent management that can make or break a business.

ITB Asia 2016 projects numerous firsts

Singapore - The ninth and biggest ITB Asia trade show yet kicked off at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, on October 19, 2016, with record high pre-matched appointments, new partnerships and a comprehensive content lineup.

Hosted buyer applications open for ibtm arabia 2017

UAE – ibtm arabia 2017, part of ibtm event’s portfolio will take place in Abu Dhabi from February 7-9, 2017, with only 130 spaces each for hosted buyers and exhibitors.

Radisson makes grand foray into Batam

Indonesia – An exclusive entrance for its meeting and event spaces, a golf course and a unique approach to corporate social responsibility are just some of what Biz Events Asia found at the recently launched Radisson Golf & Convention Center Batam.

The death of event experiential marketing

Direct from IMEX America 2016 in Las Vegas –Timo Kiuru, CEO of The Unthinkable, started the knowledge session with a statement, “Welcome to the death of event experiential marketing.” Kiuru, recognised by Connect Corporate Magazine as...

Marriott launches hotel innovation incubator in Charlotte

USA – Marriott Hotels launched its pilot innovation lab, M Beta at Charlotte Marriott City Center, where guests can be part of the decision-making at the first ever hotel in “live-beta”.

Alila receives second EarthCheck Gold certification in Bali

Indonesia – Alila Manggis has received the EarthCheck Gold certification following five continuous years of independently audited environmental and CSR performance.

Belmond unveils key developments

Global – Belmond has laid out a five-year plan around its portfolio of hotels, trains and river cruises that includes the first ever luxury sleeper trains through Ireland and South America.

Can we track the economic impact of business events?

Karen Bolinger, CEO of Melbourne Convention Bureau, tells Biz Events Asia in a Q&A why and how her team measures the impact of business events beyond tourism expenditure.

ibtm world reveals Knowledge Programme speakers

Spain – Key themes include insight into business development and strategy techniques for both the professional meeting planner and suppliers to the business events industry at this year’s ibtm world Knowledge Programme.

The Meetings & Incentives Edition: Design of the Minds

How to use clever meeting and incentive design to gain market share and stay ahead of the competition.

Two Asian countries with stellar destination marketing practices

What do Malaysia and Singapore have in common in the way they market themselves and stay ahead as business event destinations?

Raffles Hotel Singapore embarks on restoration project

Singapore – The iconic Raffles Hotel Singapore has announced plans to embark on a major restoration starting January 2017 with a grand reopening date within the second quarter of 2018.

Registrations now open for Get Global trade show

Australia – Get Global, an outbound industry trade show for international suppliers in the business events industry has launched its website, providing information on how to register for the event and exclusive opportunities for early birds.

Cover Story: The Essence of Time

Thailand believes it takes two hands – the sellers’ and the buyers’ – to clap in building a sustainable meetings and incentives industry.

MBS welcomes a record 17 trade shows and conferences in October

Singapore – October is set to be the busiest business events month as Marina Bay Sands welcomes the highest number of major events in a single month since its opening in 2010.

HotelAsia returns in 2018

Singapore – HotelAsia, one of Food&HotelAsia’s pioneer specialised trade shows will feature an impressive host of brands, showcase new equipment and technology and unveil a Singapore Pavilion for the first time.

All new, because of you!

Based on results from our surveys, we kick off the last quarter of 2016 with digital BEA, a new brand of Biz Events Asia that allows us to deliver quality digital content to you more frequently. So, what’s new?

IHG appoints Michael Martin for regional role

Singapore – InterContinental Singapore announced the appointment of Michael Martin as General Manager of InterContinental Singapore and Regional General Manager, IHG Singapore, Malaysia and Batam.

Delve Into Indonesia: Going big beyond Bali

Strategic partnerships between government bodies and the private sectors locally and internationally have proven to be vital in accelerating a country’s tourism development.

Destination Marketing: What do event planners want?

You might be doing it wrongly if you have been offering product details that fail to go beyond venue spaces and capabilities.

Away with paper trails: The rise of strategic HR

There’s been talk of moving HR out of the back room and into the boardroom, but do we know why a strategic HR team or business partner is essential?

New luminary at Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Malaysia – Zayne Boon has joined Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre Hotel and Residences as its new General Manager. Boon was noted for his results-driven approach and was first appointed as a General Manager at the age of 25.

Shenyang EXPO debuts with 8,000 delegate conference

China – The Shenyang New World EXPO opened with the successful three-day Annual National Planning Conference 2016 on September 24-26, with delegates travelling in to Liaoning province from around China.

AIME partners with BI Worldwide

Australia – For its 25th anniversary, organisers of the Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) have embarked on a global initiative to bring more event planners to Melbourne in February 2017.

EarthCheck receives endorsement from Queensland Government

Australia – The Queensland Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing (NPSR) has endorsed EarthCheck’s Evaluate and Certified programmes, which will feature additional criteria specific to operations with a Queensland National Park environment.

Sustainable tourism forum addresses issues of “touristification”

Korea – The Seoul International Fair and Sustainable Tourism Forum 2016 held from September 20-21 at the Grand Hilton Hotel, Seoul, discussed sustainable, coexisting tourism in mega-cities.

Coex celebrates 30 years with power-packed event lineup

Sponsored post - Korea’s most prolific convention centre, Coex, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year with major facility updates and a push to bring in more international guests than ever before.

Marriott completes acquisition of Starwood

Global – Marriott International has completed its acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, creating the world’s largest hotel company, and explained what it means for members of the combined loyalty programmes.

21st MIF unites for business opportunities

Macao – The 2016 Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF) organised by IPIM with 15 co-organisers, is set to open on October 20-22.

Mulia Bali launches new event space

Indonesia – The Unity Garden at The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali is Bali’s latest multi-function event venue featuring views of the Indian Ocean and the iconic Balinese Geger Temple.

Dusit Hotel & Suites Doha appoints GM

Qatar – Ahmet Antepli joins Dusit Hotel & Suites Doha as General Manager, the first Dusit branded property opening in Q2 2017 in the heart of Doha’s West Bay district.

Trend-setting at ibtm world 2016

Barcelona – Dr Rob Davidson, Managing Director, Mice Knowledge will once again present the opportunities, challenges and developments affecting the industry as part of the Knowledge Programme at ibtm world 2016.

Risk management best practices

Global – Addressing the issue of safety, security and risk management, Pacific World has created content and advices for the industry.

Andrew Tan moves to head up Pan Pacific in Ningbo

China – Andrew Tan has been appointed as the General Manager of the Pan Pacific Hotel and Serviced Suites Ningbo, a 610-key property in the vibrant port city in Zhejiang.

MISE and SITE bring CIS Certification Programme to Macao

Macao – The Certified Incentive Specialist (CIS) Certification Programme launched in Macao with a two-day education programme for 30 local industry professionals at the Macao Trade and Investment Institute

The Parisian Macao opening a crowning achievement

Macao – Sands China Ltd and Las Vegas Sands Corp officially opened The Parisian Macao on September 13, 2016, with much fanfare and celebration.

Five arts and culture venues in Canberra you should know about

Australia – From impressive national art collections to intimate galleries where you can meet the makers, here are some exceptional arts and culture venues as Singapore Airlines launches direct flights to Canberra from Singapore on September 20.

Singapore finalist announced for Taiwan’s regional MICE competition

Taiwan – MEET TAIWAN has announced the Singapore finalist for Asia Super Team: The Almighty Player, a competition where seven companies from around the region will compete for MICE tourism packages to Taiwan worth over USD50,000.

Lafayette Travel Group appoints SEA sales and marketing representative

Southeast Asia – France’s DMC Lafayette Travel Group has appointed Kuala Lumpur-based Ab & Artho Tourism Marketing Agency as the official sales and marketing representative for the group covering markets in SEA.

First millennial-focused AVANI hotel debuts in Bangkok

Thailand – The 248-key AVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel is the first purpose-designed property in the brand’s portfolio, with product delivery and design elements created to appeal to millennial-minded travellers.

ibtm world innovates with business solution for hotels

Barcelona – Created specifically for individual properties wanting to be part of ibtm world, theHotel Pavilion is a stress-free solution where hotels can just show up, brand their space and meet.

KLCC to host experiential site visits for ICCA delegates

Malaysia – In the run-up to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) congress held in Kuching, Sarawak, in November 2016, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) is doing its part by supporting young talents.

How integrated marketing adds value to business events

Global – Mark Cooper, CEO of international business events association IACC, believes there is an effective marketing platform for venues aiming to expand locally and globally.

Classical music festival sets sights on corporate groups

Singapore – The Singapore International Festival of Music (SIFOM) will return for the second time in October 2016 in hopes to become a regional hub for classical music and cement Singapore’s global reputation as a major cultural centre.

Qatar to streamline tourist visa application processes

Qatar – Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism Authority have signed an agreement with VFS Global to facilitate tourist visa application processes in a drive to attract international tourists and boost inbound tourism spending.

AIME 2017 celebrates 25th year milestone

Australia – The 25th annual Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) in Melbourne will celebrate this milestone on February 21-22, 2017 with a range of commemorative and future-focused initiatives to engage the community.

IMPACT invests big on business events

IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center has announced its THB1 billion (USD28.9 million) expansion plans that include a 587-room hotel, lifestyle hub and more.

Grass Roots and Blackhawk Network join forces

Blackhawk Network Holdings has acquired Grass Roots Group for approximately GBP90 million (US$118 million) in cash, enhancing its meetings and incentives business portfolio.

GET GLOBAL to debut in Sydney in 2017

Taking place at International Convention Centre Sydney on July 28, 2017, GET GLOBAL is a new exhibition and conference that will focus exclusively on Australia’s outbound business events market.

Five reasons to explore Kanazawa

Known for its well-preserved Edo Period districts, Kenrokuen Garden, seasonal seafood and the Kanazawa Castle, corporate incentive travel groups can see and do these in the city of Kanazawa.

Recent movements and appointments in the hospitality sector

Movements and appointments in the hospitality sector include two new executive members at InterContinental Kuala Lumpur, the opening team announced for The Luxury Collection Hotel, Changsha, and more.

Sustainable Meetings Conference unveils list of esteemed speakers

The annual Sustainable Meetings Conference (SMC) is set to maximise experiential learning through interactive sharing of latest trends, insights, opportunities and strategies with thought leaders and innovators.

Preferred Hotels & Resorts welcomes 15 new properties

Preferred Hotels & Resorts has added 15 new member hotels from May through July 2016 to its portfolio of over 650 hotels across 85 countries.

IMEX America launches comprehensive education programme

These education sessions at IMEX America this year will enable meeting professionals to gain from the best minds in the business events sector.

APAC business travel demonstrates resilience

Findings from the Hotel Price Radar Q2 2016 report by HRS revealed that Tokyo, Sydney and Singapore retained top spots in business travel while emerging cities demonstrated growth despite global geopolitical uncertainty.

Radisson Blu opens its first property in Karjat

The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat has opened in the popular holiday destination of Karjat offering 360-degree views of Sahyadri Mountains, nestled along on the banks of the Ulhas River.

Tourism New Zealand chief resigns

After leading Tourism New Zealand for almost seven years, Kevin Bowler, Chief Executive, has resigned to join Frucor Beverages Limited as its New Zealand CEO.

Wyndham advances into Korea’s secondary cities

Wyndham Hotel Group has expanded its presence with two hotels in Gangwon and Gunsan, Korea’s emerging cities where there is a gap for international hotel chains.

Destination Marketing: An Industry's Responsibility

Promoting a destination is not just a bureau's responsibility. Planners will choose a destination when its industry works as one collaborative team.

Destination Marketing - Q&A: Serious Business

The ability to track and measure the economic impact of business events creates a sustainable future for the industry.

Justin Malcolm joins Le Méridien Saigon as GM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts has appointed Justin Malcolm as the General Manager of the group’s first Le Méridien in Vietnam, where he joined in June 2016.

New regional roles at Pacific World to meet demands

Additional roles have been filled at Pacific World with Santiago (Yago) Fernández as Head of Sales EMEA and Erica Hegarty as Head of Sales, Asia, to accommodate growing business demands.

Fresh Ideas: W Sound Suite, modular event site, Catchbox

Imagine having a professional recording studio as a meeting space, a modular independent art space for your product launches, or a fun way to get your audience to speak up at a conference.

Delve Into Malaysia: Relishing New & Old Experiences

Malaysia's newest food and beverage estates, TREC and Old Malaya, are becoming event planners' dream come true.

Talent & Mentor: The Voice Within

Mentorship in Asia has never been more essential in the development of modern Asian talent.

Delve Into India: Impregnable Jugaad Spirit

Encountering true talent in New Delhi, India.

Wired Up: Be Smart About Tech

The inaugural Tourism Technology Asia Conference 2016 goes beyond gadgets and solutions.

Wired Up - Integrated Marketing

These days, the term “integrated marketing” has been eclipsed by shinier and trendier buzzwords, but the concept is still just as relevant. In fact, today's marketers are expected to be able to perform integrated marketing feats on a daily basis.

Knowledge: Cool Destination, Hot Marketing

A half-constructed conference centre, a bludgeoning banking crisis and topping it all off, quite literally, an erupting volcano disrupting flight access to the country might lead one to forgive a destination for giving up the ghost in trying to promote it

Associations: Adelaide - The BioMed City

In inimitable style, Adelaide is totally re-designing its central city area. After enjoying the warmth of the city’s friendliness and hospitality, take a closer look into this “BioMed City”.

Top five luxury experiential tours

Asia – A team of Viator’s luxury travel veterans handpicked a list of five culturally immersive and unique experiences ideal for intimate corporate incentive groups.

Technology and innovation at the heart of ibtm world

Spain – ibtm world 2016 will launch a Technology & Event Services Zone on the show floor and for the first time, partner with EventMB to run the Technology and Innovation Award.

Event spaces revamped at Sydney’s Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Australia – The heritage Ovolo Woolloomooloo unveiled the finishing touches of its AUD20 million (USD15.2 million) renovations with newly transformed event spaces for up to 350 guests.

MEET TAIWAN launches “Beauty of the Ocean” O2O Fam Tour

Taiwan – MEET TAIWAN organised an around the island tour in June 2016 for eleven Chinese MICE representatives to showcase Taipei’s natural coastal beauty and Taiwan’s technological MICE resources.

BITEC to reveal exciting new event spaces

Sponsored Post - Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC) is bringing an exciting new era of business events to Southeast Asia.

Pacific World and ACCESS partnership evolves

Global – Following the creation of the strategic partnership between Pacific World and ACCESS in 2014, the pair has announced the launch of Global Client Experience Program.

Destination Marketing: The Right Info

Providing event planners with suitable solutions and information is the key to successful destination marketing.

Talent Development: Needles In A Haystack

Biz Events Asia presents some people and business-oriented talent development strategies in the face of a talent crunch in Asia.

Cover Story: Incentives To Market

Tourism Australia's destination marketing strategies for the business events sector are delivering business from the Greater China market, and driving demand.

Delve Into Vietnam: Unwavering Grace

A familiarisation tour in Central Vietnam by Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts showed how corporate incentive travel groups can get more for less in cities Hue and Hoi An.

#OfficeAnywhere: Innovate Through Change

Can working outside the box reinvent the box? Biz Events Asia kicked off its first #OfficeAnywhere at the chic W Singapore - Sentosa Cove before heading to the land of smiles for its second chapter.

End of an era for Sydney’s ATP Conference Centre

Australia – Sydney’s iconic Australian Technology Park (ATP) Conference Centre which has been running since 1998 is due to close on June 30, 2017.

The Parisian Macao to open in September 2016

Macao – Sands China Ltd. has announced that the French-themed integrated resort, The Parisian Macao will open its doors on the Cotai Strip on September 13, 2016.

SMF 2016 urges industry professionals to embrace technology

The sixth Singapore MICE Forum (SMF 2016) held at Sands Expo and Convention Centre kicked off on July 28, 2016 with an opening speech by Melissa Ow, Deputy Chief Executive at the Singapore Tourism Board, urging the industry to deploy new technology

TCEB kicks off media famil with growth report

Thailand - ICCA rankings and a record growth in the business events sector were revealed at the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) International Media Familiarisation Trip 2016 that is currently ongoing.

Is event pay pushing people out?

Asia Pacific – Researches are showing that higher paying industries are luring our best and brightest in the business events industry.

14th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition revs up on technology

China - How Pico turned on the turbo for a few of the biggest automobiles at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition 2016 (Auto China 2016).

Galle Face Hotel Group partners with Louis T Collection

Sri Lanka – The Galle Face Hotel Group (GFHG) has joined hospitality management and building solutions company, Louis T Collection, in a strategic partnership led by well-known Sri Lankan industry professional, Sanjeev Gardiner.

The Westin Tokyo updates meeting spaces

Japan – The renovated space on level four of The Westin Tokyo encompasses seven meeting spaces including the new Crystal room, an 82 sq m luxury meeting lounge with views of Tokyo Tower.

Flagship Pan Pacific Beijing hotel to open in 2017

China – The opening of Pan Pacific Beijing in the first half of 2017 will set the benchmark for future expansions into other key first-tier cities, according to Bernold O.Schroeder, CEO of Pan Pacific Hotels Group.

IMEX America shines spotlight on innovation and education

USA – IMEX America, taking place from October 18 – 20, 2016 in Las Vegas is set to launch a new Zenvoy matching app, Networking Hub and hundreds of education sessions.

Corporate contest Asia Super Team returns for the third year

Taiwan – Registration is now open for incentive travel contest, Asia Super Team until August 28, 2016. Companies from participating countries stand to win corporate incentive packages and other prizes worth SGD60,000 (approximately USD44,138).

New helm at Shenyang New World EXPO

China – Diane Chen has been promoted to the position of General Manager of the Shenyang New World EXPO, the newest exhibition and meeting venue in Northeast China set to open in March 2017.

Michael Issenberg of AccorHotels hosts media luncheon at Raffles Singapore

Singapore – Days after the official announcement of AccorHotels’ acquisition of FRHI Hotels & Resorts (FRHI) and its three luxury hotel brands: Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel, which adds 154 hotels and resorts to AccorHotels’ portfolio

CWT research shows 20 percent of business travellers choose bleisure

Singapore – Analysis of 29 million business trips by Carlson Wagonlit Travel’s (CWT) Solutions Group showed that one in five business travellers opt for bleisure, a statistic that has not changed since 2011.

Starwood expands Westin brand in Australia with Coolum resort

Australia – Slated to open in 2021, 220-key The Westin Coolum Resort & Spa in Sunshine Coast, Queensland, will be part of a mixed-use development and Australia’s first Westin Resort.

Host city for Australian Dental Congress 2021 announced

Australia – Adelaide has 3,000 reasons to smile now that it has been named host city for the Australian Dental Congress in 2021, one of the largest business events in the country with over 3,000 participants.

Centara Hotel & Convention Centre Khon Kaen rebrands

Thailand – Minor Hotels expands its presence into Northeast Thailand with the rebranded AVANI Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre, featuring 4,000 sq m of convention space and 196 guest rooms.

MISE gains momentum with second industry event

Macao – Over 80 professionals from the region’s tourism and events industry gathered for the second edition of an event series organised by the Macau Meeting, Incentives and Special Events Association (MISE).

Buffalo Tours incorporates dedicated business events division

Buffalo Tours has launched its new business events division – Buffalo Events – to support its corporate clients and agents in crafting meaningful events and incentives focused on unique experiences and corporate social responsibility (CSR) objective

Korea tops UIA global meetings ranking in Asia

South Korea – Findings from the latest International Meetings Statistics Report by the Union of International Associations (UIA) has revealed that Korea ranks second globally and first in Asia for the number of global congresses hosted in 2015.

Why Gold Coast could be your next incentive destination

Australia – As the city gears up for the 2018 Commonwealth Games, millions are being poured into transforming the Gold Coast for the largest event that Australia will see in this decade.

APAC’s first Deloitte University to be based at Amara Sanctuary

Singapore – Amara Sanctuary Resort, Sentosa, has been picked to serve as a permanent base for Deloitte University Asia Pacific’s (DU AP) employees to receive training.

MCEC strikes sustainable gold

Australia – After almost a decade of sustainable practice, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has achieved the coveted Gold Certification from EarthCheck, the world’s leading sustainable benchmarking organisation.

SilverNeedle unveils Sage Hotel West Perth

Australia – Managed by Singapore-based SilverNeedle Hospitality Group, the centrepiece of the AUD35 million (USD25.8 million) Sage Hotel West Perth is a heritage-listed black and white Walsh Family residence built in 1902.

Carlson Rezidor signs Radisson Suzhou

China – The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has signed a management agreement with Suzhou Zheng He Investment Co., Ltd for Radisson Suzhou, a 155-key hotel scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Inaugural Fairmont study reveals luxury travel trends

Global – Findings from Fairmont Hotels & Resorts’ Luxury Insights Report show that travellers define cultural immersion and emotional connections to historic and iconic hotel destinations as the "new luxury" in travel.

New matchmaking technology for hosted buyers at ibtm world

Spain - All Hosted Buyers attending ibtm world 2016 will, for the first time, take part in a system that provides tailored recommendations of suppliers to enhance the relevance of appointments.

TCEB targets mega-sized events

Thailand – The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has unveiled its strategy to attract mega-sized events in 2016 by allocating promotional budget for its “Thailand Big Thanks!” campaign.

AccorHotels renews partnerships in Hyderabad

India – AccorHotels has announced the renewal for the management of the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (NHCC) and the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC); and a refurbishment programme for both complexes.

Are event bureaux well-loved by planners?

Global - Event bureaux continue to be a driving force behind economic development for business events, backed by the overwhelming support of event professionals throughout the Asia Pacific region.

GM of Le Meridien Singapore appointed

Singapore - Le Meridien Singapore, Sentosa has announced the appointment of its General Manager, Jason Leung, who brings over 14 years of experience in hospitality to the new hotel.

AVANI Hotels & Resorts debuts in the Middle East

Dubai - Minor Hotels announced that it will be taking over the 216-room Mövenpick Hotel Deira, from July 1, and rebranded under AVANI Hotels & Resorts as AVANI Deira Dubai Hotel.

YOTEL to launch in Singapore

Singapore – An innovative hotel concept currently operating in New York, London, Amsterdam and Paris is coming to Singapore. Slated to open in 2017, YOTEL will be nestled in the heart of Orchard Road featuring 610 cabin rooms.

Dusit Thani Guam Resort hosts its first international conference

Guam – From May 18-21, 2016, the Dusit Thani Guam Resort hosted more than 500 international delegates from the Pacific Asia Travel Association’s (PATA) annual summit at the Guam Convention Centre.

Pacific World expands into Myanmar

Myanmar - Pacific World announced that it will be opening an office in Myanmar, expanding the integrated global DMC and Event Management organisation’s reach to 36 countries across the globe.

Four Points by Sheraton expands presence to Sydney

Australia - Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc announced an agreement with joint venture partners, Frasers Property Australia and Sekisui House Australia, to open Four Points by Sheraton Sydney, Central Park.

Suntec Singapore ups the audio-visual ante

Singapore – Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre has officially unveiled its new ImmersiveAV Suite to offer a more sustainable and immersive audio-visual experience.

IHG promotes Lim Ee Jin to Area Director of Marketing & Communications

Singapore - InterContinental Singapore has announced the new appointment for Lim Ee Jin who will spearhead key initiatives and direct marketing campaigns across IHG’s cluster of eight hotels spanning five brands in Singapore.

TCEB launches special privileges for business events

Thailand – The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has unveiled its “Thailand CONNECT Welcome Package 2016”, which aims to raise awareness on the country’s capabilities in hosting business events.

Knowledge: Behind the Glitter

James and Tamara Lohan, the real-life couple behind Mr & Mrs Smith boutique hotels website, speak to Biz Events Asia about the essence of modern luxury travel and hospitality.

ITB Asia partners with International SOS

Singapore – ITB Asia has appointed International SOS as its first official Medical and Travel Security partner in a collaboration that will educate delegates on the latest industry trends.

Fresh Ideas: Cave events and lotus leaf painting

Cave party - Located in the south of Japan, the Valley of Gangala is a mystical underground forest with the feel of a Lord of the Rings movie set.

Staging Connections delivers their largest event in Tasmania

Australia – Staging Connections in Hobart welcomed 1,000 Operating Room nurses, students and industry representatives for the ACORN 2016 conference and gala on May 25-28, 2016 for ICMS Australasia.

Associations: Taking the First Step

For so many organisations there is a pressure to “open new markets for members”, especially in regions that are culturally different. Who is enabling this exchange and how does it benefit both sides?

Le Méridien returns to Singapore after nearly a decade

Singapore – Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts today announced the signing of Le Méridien Singapore, Sentosa, a conversion project that will add 191 guestrooms to the island in the coming months.

TTA Conference underlines technology to repurpose spaces

The Tourism Technology Asia Conference 2016 (TTA) has announced key topics and drivers that will elevate productivity and increase ROI for the hospitality and tourism spaces in Singapore and the region through the adoption of latest technologies

Delve into Indonesia: Sweet Serendipity

Luxurious amenities and well-trained staff are just the tip of the iceberg as we embrace the serenity and artisanal hospitality of The Sanchaya on Bintan Island.

Australia to celebrate inaugural Global Exhibitions Day at MCEC

Australia – The Global Exhibitions Day at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) on June 8, 2016, is designed to highlight the impact the exhibition industry has on local economies.

ibtm china reveals 7 key education topics

China – The ibtm china trade show will build on the seven key education topics that were implemented across the portfolio last year in its popular Knowledge Forum this year.

Key developments from Global Association Hubs Partnership

Global – The Global Association Hubs Partnership (GAHP) has introduced three key developments including a new appointment, website and dialogue platforms, to help associations to grow and expand internationally.

Delve into Vietnam: Luxury Re-Imagined

It's easy to fall in love with a country that respects tradition and history, while its people move forward with boundless energy.

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts returns to Okinawa

Japan - Having completed a multi-million dollar renovation, the 200-key Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort will add a new wing of guest rooms, Beach Bar and more by December 2016.

ACTE Education Forum addresses the corporate millennials

The latest ACTE Education Forum in Singapore held on April 21, 2016, at The Westin Singapore delved into technology, policies and decisions.

Cover Story: Romancing Luxury

The city of love, lights and romance does not rest on its laurels and continues to turn on its charms built on legacy, heritage and luxury.

Delve Into Antarctica: Spirit of Exploration

A picture-perfect journey to the bottom of the world that ignites the sense of adventure - Antarctica.

Wired Up: Strategising Your Customer Data

Professional email marketing solutions provider, Inxmail, shares how to utilise email marketing data to reduce cost and drive ROI.

Dining Matters: Artful Gastronomy

Biz Events Asia asks professionals from the business events and hospitality industry why food styling is important and how it affects the gourmet experience.

DoubleTree by Hilton opens first hotel in Fiji

Fiji - Hilton Worldwide and DoubleTree by Hilton announced the opening of DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Fiji - Sonaisali Island.

Pacific World expands operations into Austria

Austria – Global DMC and event management company, Pacific World, has announced expansion of their European operations, offering meetings and event solutions to include Austria, following the opening of their offices in Germany.

SilverNeedle joins QIC Global for hotel venture in Melbourne

Melbourne – Singapore-based SilverNeedle Hospitality Group announced a deal with Australia's QIC Global Real Estate to develop NEXT Hotel Melbourne. Scheduled for 2019 completion, the venture is worth approximately AUD110 million.

Keep Your Creatives Safe

Vera Lee, Regional Assistant General Manager, Total Brand Activation Hong Kong Limited, a member of the Pico Group, shares three crucial words for professionals in the creative industry.

What to look out for at Tourism Technology Asia conference 2016

Singapore – With the speed of software and hardware advancement, tourism infrastructure and spaces need to upgrade their technological capabilities to meet the consumer’s growing expectations.

DISTREE Events makes senior business development appointment

Singapore – DISTREE Events has announced the appointment of Loh Teck-Heng as the Director of Business Development for APAC. He brings with him over 30 years of experience in APAC technology channels.

CWT appoints new Country Director in Thailand

Thailand – Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) announced that Duangdej Yuaikwarmdee has been appointed Country Director, CWT Thailand, and will be based in Bangkok.

Case Study: Australia’s Top 100 Restaurant Awards in Sydney

Australia – The best of Australia’s culinary world gathered to celebrate and recognise another year of restaurant excellence at The Australian Financial Review Australia’s Top 100 Restaurant Awards event in Sydney.

ITB Asia 2016 announces inaugural dedicated MICE Day

Singapore – ITB Asia 2016 will showcase its strongest meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) line up to-date with a full day conference programme dedicated to the growing sector.

Survey reveals the region’s obsession with trends

Do you like keeping up to date with industry trends? Need to know what’s new, what’s hot, what’s in style? Well, you’re not alone.

Darwin partners with SilkAir to attract Singapore event planners

Australia - SilkAir recently announced that flight frequency between Darwin and Singapore has been stepped up and organised a "Discover Darwin" event for business event planners from Singapore.

Christchurch secures major agricultural congress

New Zealand – The 16th World Cereal and Bread Congress is expected to bring in over 600 delegates to the new Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre in mid-2020.

Associations: ASAE’s ideas take flight and slide into Asia

Growing from their start in March 2015 and partnering with sponsor Meetings & Exhibitions Hong Kong (MEHK), ASAE's 2016 Great Ideas in Association Management Conference, Asia Pacific, ran from April 10-12, 2016 at the Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong hotel.

Starwood debuts world’s largest Aloft in Guangzhou

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced the opening of Aloft Guangzhou Tianhe. This marks the largest Aloft hotel globally with 498 rooms and the second Aloft hotel in Guangzhou.

HKECIA hosts Global Exhibitions Day Conference

The Hong Kong Exhibition & Convention Industry Association (HKECIA) will organise the Global Exhibitions Day Conference on June 8, 2016, in support of the first ever Global Exhibitions Day.

Carlson Rezidor strengthens market position through acquisition

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has taken full ownership of CDMS, adding to its portfolio the Country Inns & Suites By Carlson brand in India and four Radisson Blu hotels.

South Beach to become JW Marriott

The South Beach Consortium is currently in talks to appoint Marriott International to manage The South Beach hotel, which will be rebranded as Singapore’s first JW Marriott.

Management appointments at Pan Pacific Hotels Group

Pan Pacific Hotels Group appointed Allan Wong as GM of Pan Pacific Tianjin, China, while Kurt Otto Wehinger has been appointed GM of PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney in Australia with a concurrent role of Area GM Oceania.

Tech: Dedicated hospitality sales assessment tool

A highly focused Online Sales Assessment Tool (OSAT) launched for the hospitality industry aims to bring clarity towards an individual’s or team commercial capabilities without getting psychometric in approach.

Case Study: Pico's futuristic exhibition in Singapore

Pico’s innovative use of technology created an immersive, multi-sensory experiential exhibition that offered a glimpse into how Singaporeans could live, work, play, care and learn in the future.

Starwood's Aloft brand expands in Jakarta

A new Aloft Jakarta Simatupang will soon rise in Indonesia’s capital for the hyper-connected global travellers. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. signed for the new Aloft, owned by PT. Anugrah Karya Bangsa, to open on January 1, 2020.

8 event planning tips from Preferred Hotels’ latest business event venues

From Dubai to Miami, here are eight business event venues and tips from Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ expanding portfolio to provide greater variety for meetings and event planners.

Dining Matters: Feast with your eyes

An upscale venue in Singapore elevates the food and art experience.

Carlson Rezidor strengthens presence in Australasia

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has announced plans to grow its Australasia portfolio to 15 – 20 hotels as part of its target of adding 100 hotels to its Asia Pacific portfolio by 2020.

Case Study: Australian National Maritime Museum hosts mega incentive group

The Australian National Maritime Museum’s new AUD12 million (USD8.8 million) attraction, Action Stations, accommodated Nu Skin China's mega incentive group in Sydney’s Darling Harbour.

Wyndham sets foot in Halong Bay

The USD40 million Wyndham Legend Halong Bay scheduled to open in June 2016 will be the city’s first five-star hotel by a global chain in the province of Quảng Ninh.

IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center

IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center has designed an i-Exhibit package to offer a free one-day set-up for a new exhibition or trade show.

Delve Into Singapore: Future Foretold

A panel session moderated by international media personality and travel host, Anita Kapoor, discussed how design and technology are impacting the future of hospitality.

Time to experience the Mercure Bana Hills French Village

AccorHotels has launched Mercure Bana Hills French Village, an accommodation experience 1,480 m above sea level amidst Ba Na Hills.

Delve Into South Korea: Fun and Games in Korea’s Coastal Getaways

2016 is rapidly shaping up to be a landmark year for Korea's incentive travel market, with large-scale corporate groups from around Southeast Asia selecting the country as their holiday-reward destination.

The Creativity and Innovation Edition: Underpinning Craftsmanship

In an increasingly competitive market, how far would one push to stay ahead of competition even if it means brainstorming ideas with clients in the presence of the competitors?

Cover Story: Blooming Family Affair

IMEX Frankfurt 2016 proves why trade shows still possess the ability to bring business leaders together for reasons beyond trading purposes.

Delve Into Laos: Land of Zen

An AccorHotels regional media familiarisation trip to Luang Prabang, Laos, showed Biz Events Asia how this UNESCO-protected gem will steal even the hardest of hearts.

Knowledge: Building the Unconventional Experience

Uniplan Hong Kong shares the formula for creating experiential events by engaging audiences with its environment, content, and technology.

Wired Up: The New Reality

What are Physical Web beacons and how is the Augmented Reality technology a commonplace in events?

Singapore responds to tourism challenges with sharpened strategies and support

The Singapore Tourism Board’s (STB) annual Tourism Industry Conference revealed performance figures, new initiatives, strategies and support, and announced the rebranding of a national awards programme.

IACC Meeting Room of The Future publishes its first meetings research

Global -- IACC unveiled the global survey results of a meetings research initiative conducted and reported following the survey of global meeting planners.

W Hotel Worldwide introduces global speaker series featuring inspiring women

It’s all about WHAT SHE SAID for W Hotels Worldwide, a global speaker series featuring dynamic, inspiring women from the worlds of fashion, music, tech, media and more.

Warner Bros. themed destination to open in Abu Dhabi

Miral and Warner Bros. has announced that a Warner Bros. themed destination will open in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, in 2018, offering more event and incentive travel venue options in the destination.

Tourism New Zealand secures NZD50 million incentive travel business from Amway China

Tourism New Zealand’s unique approach to hosting large incentive travel groups has succeeded as it wins NZD50 million (USD 34 million) worth of incentive business from China.

Carlson Wagonlit Travel names new CEO

Singapore – Kurt Ekert has been named the new CEO of Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT), reporting directly to the Carlson Board of Directors.

Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts

Global - Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts has launched the Shangri-La Events Collection and Golden Circle Event Planner Rewards to offer a higher level of personalised offerings and flexible event credits for event planners.

Pacific World hits milestone in India and China

Asia – All Meetings & Events business units of Le Passage to India (LPTI) will move under the global Pacific World brand. The global DMC and event management company has also its extended partnership with TUI China.

New GMs appointed at Centara Hotels & Resorts

Thailand - Centara Hotels & Resorts (CHR) has recently welcomed a number of new General Managers in its organisation.

Strategic alliance between IHG and ANA Holdings extended

Global – InterContinental Hotels Group’s (IHG) strategic joint venture with aviation group, ANA HOLDINGS (ANA HD), will continue till 2036, following a successful decade of collaboration.

Oasia ventures into Kuala Lumpur as first property outside Singapore

Malaysia – Oasia Suites Kuala Lumpur from Singapore’s Far East Hospitality (FEH), will open in the second quarter of 2016.

Wired Up: Technology rings conference style changes in China

Xi Jinping taking office as President of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in late 2012 has had quite an impact on the meetings industry in China, especially his anti-corruption campaign starting in 2013.

Dining Matters: Under the Tuscan sun

A rare opportunity to travel and cook with two Australian master chefs.

Engage: Real SMX Appeal

The recent ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2016 in Manila gave delegates the chance to experience the city’s premier convention facility, and the soon-to-be-open Conrad Hotel.

6 ways to be a smarter business traveller

Global - Holiday Inn Express believes that being a smart business traveller can be done by clocking in more playtime. Having a balance also helps business travellers feel refreshed and inspired, motivated and excited to do it all again.

CWT extends alliance with China’s TravelSky

China - Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) and TravelSky, China’s leading provider of information technology and commercial services for air travel and tourism industry, is set to continue their strategic alliance until 2020.

AccorHotels acquires luxury serviced home operator onefinestay

Global – AccorHotels has announced its acquisition of onefinestay for EUR148 million (USD169 million) and makes a further commitment of EUR64 million to help the company scale internationally.

Spotlight's on event spaces at The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia – Technology and extensive event spaces will steal the limelight when The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur opens in May 2016, featuring Asia’s first 270-degree LED digital canvas around its Grand Ballroom.

Luxury hotel chain in India renews Starwood partnership

India – ITC Hotels has signed an agreement with Starwood Hotels & Resorts to extend its four-decade partnership for 11 ITC Luxury Collection hotels and one hotel under the Sheraton brand.

Get rewarded for your sustainable meetings

Global - Meeting planners have more incentives now to hold sustainable meetings with the latest Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts meeting offer.

Mind your meetings

Australia - Health, well-being and sustainability are increasingly top-of-mind for meeting and event planners these days.

Legal Mind: Striking a Balance

Whether in the event, hotel or legal industry, working mums often have to make a choice between family and career. Vicki Heng shares how organisations such as Mums@Work in Singapore can help overcome this dilemma.

Carlson Rezidor awes event planners with virtual reality interface

Global – Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has recently unveiled its Virtual Reality (VR) interface for the Radisson Blu brand’s new design program, BluPrint, at its Asia Pacific launch during the Hotel Investment Conference South Asia (HICSA) 2016.

MyCEB and Malaysia Airlines collaborate to woo business events

Malaysia - Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) and Malaysia Airlines Berhad (MAB) are determined to win over the business tourism and major events market through a Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA).

Dusit International earns multiple EarthCheck Gold Certifications

Thailand – Dusit cut its greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 34 percent to become the first hotel group to be awarded with Gold Certification by EarthCheck.

One World Hotel

Malaysia – Located in the heart of Petaling Jaya, One World Hotel has revealed its RM2 million (USD 510,700) technology upgrade to enrich every conference and event experience.

Marriott Hotels, Hong Kong

Hong Kong – Marriott Hotels in Hong Kong is offering meeting organisers “4 Perks for Free”, a summer corporate accommodation deal.

Delve Into Australia: AIME 2016 paves the way for business events growth

Keeping true to the ever-changing business events landscape, the 24th Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) showcased a relentless expansion of infrastructure in the region, along with new programmes for the industry to learn and network

Delve Into Australia: Beauty and Brains Renaissance

Sydney has never been busier as the city calls itself Australia's new financial hub.

Delve Into Australia: Capital Access

Canberra, the nation's capital, piques buyers' interest post direct international flight announcements

Delve Into Australia: Medical Sensory

Adelaide's increased focus on the medical field entices congresses like the ANZOS-AOCO Obesity Conference 2017, calling for an Asian Oceanian solution for lifestyle changes.

Delve Into Malaysia: Sustainable Legacy

If leaving a legacy from meetings that visit communities around the world is a significant trend, then there was a clear dose of this during ICCA‘s annual congress in Buenos Aires last November.

Delve Into Malaysia: Kuching gears up for the ICCA Congress

In an inspired move at the last congress, the board announced the keen interest in working closer with associations to improve quality in association events with their stated vision “to shape the future and value of international association meetings”.

Case study: Nielsen Hong Kong takes team building to Disney

Hong Kong – It is no easy feat to find the suitable venue that accommodates 300 people making intricate dim sums as a team building activity, among others. But Nielsen Hong Kong found the solution.

3 out-of-the-box event venues in Brisbane

Sometimes a business event calls for something a little bit different, decadent or downright quirky. Industrial chic, exposed brick walls and street art are just some of the surrounds that get attendees to open up, be engaged and get inspired.

Sammy Carolus appointed GM at Grand Hyatt Taipei

Taiwan – Freshly leading the 1,000 strong staff of Grand Hyatt Taipei is hospitality industry veteran, Sammy Carolus.

Delve Into Malaysia: Green Jewel Archipelago

Langkawi Island, the Jewel of Kedah and UNESCO World Geopark is a sustainable event wonderland.

Knowledge: Qualifying Event Inquiries

How would an event planner define a qualified and an unqualified business event lead?

The Association Congresses Edition: Associations Bring Meaning

Associations in Asia and the supporting supplier trade are developing their expertise and gaining benefits from international groups with a keen interest in the continued growth of the region.

Cover Story: Malaysia to host first cancer congress in Southeast Asia

Malaysia sets a new benchmark for medical congresses in the region by winning the bid for the World Cancer Congress and the World Cancer Leaders' Summit in 2018.

Delve Into Thailand: #USAmeetsBKK

Biz Events Asia and partners brought 11 American buyers for a four-day experience in Bangkok

Jan Tonkin assumes presidency at IAPCO

Global – New Zealand industry leader and managing director of The Conference Company, Jan Tonkin, has taken on the presidency role of the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) for a two-year term.

Staging Connections delights Amway Taiwan’s Sydney incentive

Australia – Staging Connections, one of Australia’s leading audio visual and event services company, earned the cheers of Amway Taiwan’s 1,150 VIPs who made their way to Sydney for a five-day Asian incentive.

The Associations Congresses Edition: Collaboration is the Name of Game

Managing associations is a specialised business and not at all what appears to the outside world.

The Associations Congresses Edition: Staying Ahead of the Game

Singapore's focus on leadership commands international association attention through global partnership and sound reputation.

The Associations Congresses Edition: Associations Advancing in Asia

Stronger by grouping American and Australian groups of association executives share experiences and training to help develop good governance models in Asia based associations challenging some long held out of date practices.

The Associations Congresses Edition: Call to Action

MyCEB supports a sustainable future for Malaysia's Association Community

Delve Into Thailand: O-M-Pullman-G

Biz Events Asia’s Editorial Director, El Kwang, pays a visit to the event centric Pullman Bangkok Hotel G.

Delve Into Thailand: Community the core of sustainability

A recent golf event at Laguna Phuket shone a light on how deep-rooted the group is in maintaining a sustainable relationship with its community and environment.

AccorHotels opens much awaited Veranda Resort Pattaya

Thailand – AccorHotels has launched the elegant Veranda Resort Pattaya MGallery by Sofitel at Na Jomtien beach.

Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves to launch in 2017

Australia – Event planners have something to look forward to come mid-2017 when Howard Smith Wharves opens its doors to become Brisbane's ultimate events precinct.

Suzhou welcomes its first Novotel

China – Novotel adds to its growing network in the Greater China region with its first property right at the heart of Suzhou Industrial Park.

New corporate rewards programme from Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

Hong Kong - Hong Kong Disneyland Resort has launched its “Disney Magical Corporate Rewards” programme for even better privileges to overseas corporate groups.

Malaysia’s capital welcomes first Hotel Jen

Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur will welcome its first Hotel Jen in 2019, according to Shangri-La International Hotel Management Ltd. and Concorde Arch (M) Sdn. Bhd.

Okinawa to host Routes Asia 2017 forum

Japan – Okinawa’s strong appeal in the aviation industry, its expanding infrastructure and subtropical climate are some of the key factors the prefecture will become the host destination for Routes Asia in 2017.

Artyzen Hospitality Group makes its way to Shanghai

China – Artyzen Hospitality Group (AHG) has announced the debut of Artyzen Hotels & Resorts and Artyzen Habitat - new event and conference venues to look out for at the Shanghai Lingang New City.

Marriott and Starwood sign amended merger agreement

Global - Marriott International, Inc. and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. have signed an amendment to their definitive merger agreement that will create the world’s largest hotel company with more than 5,700 properties when combined.

Qatar showcases unique experiences at International Food Festival

Qatar – Qatar International Food Festival is now on its seventh year, thanks to the collaboration among Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) in partnership with Qatar Airways and The Pearl.

Starwood calls off Marriott merger

Global – Anbang Insurance Group Co. recently made headlines with its purchase of Strategic Hotels from Blackstone but made bigger headlines when it made an USD13.2 billion offer for Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc.

The St. Regis Langkawi Resort adds luxurious touch to the archipelago

Malaysia – Langkawi will soon become a luxury destination of choice for meetings and events when The St. Regis Langkawi Resort opens its doors on April 6, 2016.

Macao at the mise-en-scène of special events

Macao – If cinema and stage are significantly judged by their mise-en-scene, then in the world of special events, Macao is ideally positioned.

A sparkling new addition for events at Plaza Athénée Bangkok

Thailand – Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien Hotel has revealed a new platform to accommodate special events or meetings: Pimarn Siam Hall.

AIME 2016 paves way for business events growth

Australia - Keeping true to the ever-changing business events landscape, the 24th Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) showcased a relentless expansion of infrastructure in the region.

Stay fit in the midst of meetings and conferences

Global – In a partnership with FitStar™ by Fitbit®, Westin Hotels & Resorts will provide personalised workouts to rev up guests’ fitness routines on the road, whether they are travelling for leisure or for meetings and conferences.

First Global Destination Sustainability Index launches

Global – ICCA’s Scandinavian Chapter and MCI have initiated the launch of Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDSI-Index), the very first sustainability ranking for event destinations worldwide.

26 Carlson Rezidor properties in APAC achieve EarthCheck certifications

Asia Pacific – Seven years of collaboration between Carlson Rezidor and EarthCheck achieved a USD6.9 million in savings and an overall environmental footprint reduction of 23 percent.

Luxury travel redefined through Club InterContinental

Global – Upon arrival at the airport, imagine yourself in a chauffeured car to the hotel enjoying complimentary WiFi throughout the journey, then personally greeted and escorted at the hotel’s lounge for check-in.

Wired Up: Step a little closer

The use of beacon technology at events are underrated, but that may be because event planners are not aware of the extent of beacon's usefulness.

Associations: Australian PCOs keep Asia Pacific meeting

Association magnet Adelaide hosted the annual PCOA at the end of 2015, and showcased strong collaboration and concepts for the associations sector.

Sustainability on a higher level in Thai business events

Thailand – The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) sends a strong message to the world of its commitment to incorporate sustainability in its business events industry.

Associations: Adelaide bound

Post-PCOA 2015, a select group experienced how Adelaide can create a unique space for delegates to encourage connection.

Delve Into Vietnam: Bringing it home

A business events familiaristion trip in Vietnam integrated creative team building activities with a touching charity gesture.

Delve Into Hong Kong: Live communication

Biz Events Asia ventures into Hong Kong to showcase talent that focuses on communication strategies for their event delivery capabilities.

Delve Into Hong Kong: Case Study 1 - Audi Q7 Launch

Uniplan Hong Kong's Audi Q7 launch idea was built on the overarching 35th Anniversary of Audi Quattro Technology.

Delve Into Hong Kong: Case Study 2 - Longines Hong Kong International Races (LHKIR) Gala Dinner

Uniplan Hong Kong created a journey of branded experience for over 1,000 exclusive VIP guests, bringing out the brand equity of Longines.

Delve Into Hong Kong: Case Study 3 - Studio City Macau Grand Opening Event

Uniplan Hong Kong was tasked to manage the international launch of a global brand, in an up-close and personal, experiential manner.

Tokyo tops HRS’ radar for having the highest room rates in 2015

Global - Data collected from hotel bookings made via HRS hotel portal in 2015 points to one certainty: Tokyo presented the highest room rates last year.

The Communication Strategies Edition: Linking the dots

Biz Events Asia brings you insights on the importance and effectiveness of good communication strategies.

The Communication Strategies Edition: False perception

Like marketing, the function of communication has traditionally been viewed as the “necessary evil” in expenditure.

Big leap for sustainability in the events industry

Global – The Green Meetings Industry Council (GMIC) will become a council of the Convention Industry Council (CIC) to advocate and educate around sustainability in the MICE industry.

The Communication Strategies Edition: The modern communication

The role of communication has become exponentially more important today than ever before.

The Communication Strategies Edition: Mind changer examples

For most event planners, the exacting demands of the market today put immense pressure on the way they need to think about events.

The Communication Strategies Edition: Spend to make money

Investing in proper automated tracking tools may save labour costs in the long run.

Cover Story: Weaving a decade of connections

A wave of completely new Hosted Buyers and a new value-driven show format are attracting more business event opportunities to countries around the Arabian Gulf than ever before.

Trends watch at ibtm world

Back by popular demand, Rob Davidson, Managing Director, MICE Knowledge and ibtm world Industry Analyst illustrates key global trends that will affect the business events industry at the ibtm world 2016 trade show.

Team cooking event company, Cheeky Food Group, rebrands

Australia – Previously known as Cheeky Food Group, Cheeky Food Events understands that as companies evolve in their strategic goals, so should its team building cooking class offerings to stay relevant.

Fresh Ideas: Eat and be merry

Right in the heart of the experiential event trend is Pialligo Estate. Just minutes from Canberra International Airport, it is a true getaway for teams to bond.

Singapore remains undeterred by mixed tourism performance in 2015

Singapore - At the Singapore Tourism Board Year in Review Media Conference held at The South Beach Hotel on February 29, 2016, Oliver Chong, Executive Director, Communications & Marketing Capability, STB, reported that Singapore’s tourism receipts dipped.

Grand addition to Thailand’s largest island

Thailand - Phuket’s west coast will soon have their own InterContinental Phuket Resort, as part of community project, MontAzure.

An evening of extravagance

Pacific World showcases their creativity at the annual ibtm world trade show held in Barcelona.

ACI HR’s 2016 APAC trends report out

Asia Pacific - ACI HR Solutions 2016 Travel and Hospitality Industry Salary and Employment Trends Report was released indicating that the industry is bucking the doom and gloom forecast seen in other industries.

Expansion dominates Movenpick Hotels & Resorts’ successful year

Global - With 12 new properties and an expanding portfolio to end 2015, Movenpick Hotels & Resorts (MHR) is riding high on what had been its best year to date.

KLCC in Malaysia gives back

Malaysia ­– The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) offered more than just an event and conference space when it donated two dialysis machines worth RM90,000 (USD21,400) to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) Malaysia.

Crown Towers Perth to debut at AIME 2016

Australia – The highly anticipated Crown Towers Perth will finally be unveiled at the 2016 Asia-Pacific Meetings Expo (AIME) on February 23-24, 2016.

Masterchef experience under the Tuscan sun

Italy - 2016 is said to see a rise in experiential events where event planners are infusing more true local experiences into meeting and incentive programmes.

Pacific World highlights top destinations in EMEA region for incentives and conferences

Global – Abu Dhabi has been identified to be among the top cities in EMEA when it comes to incentives and conferences, according to the Pacific World Global Destination Index Report.

AIME 2016 Welcome Event location revealed

Australia – Taking place on February 22, the evening prior to the two-day trade show, the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) Welcome Event will be held at 400 City Road, Melbourne.

Senior appointments at Pan Pacific Singapore

Singapore – Pan Pacific Singapore has announced two of its key management appointments effective February 2016.

IHG 2016 Trends Report identify meaningful membership communities in the “The Age of I”

Global – Engaging with consumers through meaningful membership communities will be key this year, according to InterContinental Hotels Group’s (IHG) 2016 Trends Report.

Meeting venues that spur productivity and creativity

Indonesia – Let’s face it. Meetings should inspire creativity and optimise productivity so choosing a meeting venue that can provide a perfect gathering place is pivotal.

Dining Matters: Beef It Up

In this new feature, Biz Events Asia finds out what makes W Singapore – Sentosa Cove’s award-winning steakhouse, SKIRT, a cut above the rest, and the people behind its success.

Wired Up: Trending Technologies in 2016

With the growing number of technological experiments in the business events scene through the years, what are some of the trending technologies to look out for in 2016?

IACC Australia Asia Pacific holds annual meeting in Sydney

Australia - The International Association of Conference Centres (IACC) held its annual meeting in Sydney from January 17-20, 2016 with new learning formats and a theme of “Let's Invent Tomorrow”.

Starwood unveils 2016 food trends through SPG Culinary Moments

Global – Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) members will soon have the opportunity to participate in an enhanced calendar of culinary events, and experience the various food trends identified by the participating celebrity chefs.

BCD Meetings & Events adds 13 to its Global Partner Network

Global – BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E) adds 13 partner markets to expand its Global Partner Network and better serve customers’ need for global scope with local delivery.

Larger conference venues in London’s new InterContinental hotel

England – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the opening of InterContinental London – the O2, offering 453 rooms on London’s rejuvenated historic, entertainment and financial gateway.

Tough it out through team bonding

Australia - Tough Mudder, the international obstacle event series, will kick-off its 2016 season in Australia on the rolling hills and valleys of Sirromet Winery in Southeast Queensland in May.

Jennifer Cronin succeeds Eric Waldburger as new Marco Polo Hotels President

Hong Kong - Marco Polo Hotels welcomes Jennifer Cronin as President for Marco Polo Hotels, succeeding Eric Waldburger who has retired.

Latest trends and insights from AIME

Held from February 23-24, 2016, the AIME Knowledge Program will offer event professionals a range of best-practice case studies, technology solutions and future trends.

Let your one-of-a-kind business experience take flight in Singapore

Sponsored Post – Still undecided if you should hold your next meeting or incentive trip in Singapore? Wait no longer and take advantage of the Singapore MICE Advantage Programme (SMAP)

Cover Story: Dreams do come true

Australia shows in action why they are excellent in mixing business meetings with delegate-bonding activities.

Delve Into Sri Lanka: Route Awakening

Journey with us to Sri Lanka and find out why it should be top of the incentive travel places to visit.

The Trend Edition: Keeping up with the times

Biz Events Asia scoured business journals, interviews with industry leaders and reflections on the big changes going on around us.

The Trend Edition: Trend 01 - The era of start-ups and disruptors

Australian Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, has declared that his nation will be a hub of innovation in which good ideas will be supported with an ecosystem to encourage them to flourish. And for good reason too.

The Trend Edition: Trend 02 - The Personalised Digital Customer Journey

n 2016, the conversation around the digital impact on the way we communicate, buy and sell focuses on the human desire for connectedness. Sounds contradictory?

The Trend Edition: Trend 03 - Transparent Collaboration

There are a few forces that come together in 2016 that will see an increase in transparent collaboration as a business model in the events industry.

The Trend Edition: Trend 04 - Talent Management

The importance of talent development takes the cake when it comes to ranking important 2016 trends in Asia.

Minor Hotel Group launches Oaks brand in India

India – Minor Hotel Group (MHG) announced the first Oaks property in India with the development of Oaks Neemrana, in partnership with India-based NSP Associates (India) Pvt. Ltd.

The Trend Edition: Women in Leadership; Beyond the Gender Tag

I was too young to experience the hype generated when hotel veteran Jennie Chua was appointed as General Manager of Raffles Hotel in Singapore over two decades ago. This appointment would have been rare for the western world, let alone in Asia.

The Trend Edition: The Power of a Brand

Biz Events Asia experiences a hotel opening that delivered not just on expectations but the power of its brand.

Stuart Bailey named new HKECIA chairman

Hong Kong – The Hong Kong Exhibition & Convention Industry Association (HKECIA) voted unanimously for the appointment of Mr Stuart Bailey, Managing Director of Diversified Communications Hong Kong

IACC reveals 2016 top meeting package trends

Global – A study among 378 members of the International Association of Conference Centres (IACC) revealed its Top Meeting Package Trends for 2016 which are influencing meeting planners and venue operators across the globe.

AIME welcome reception theme unveiled

Australia – The location may still be a mystery but Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) has announced the theme for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) Welcome Event on February 22, 2016.

Stephane Fabregoul is new MD for W Singapore and St. Regis Singapore

Singapore – Stephane Fabregoul steps into a new role as Managing Director, W Singapore – Sentosa Cove and The St. Regis Singapore.

Dusit Thani Hotel enters China

China – China welcomes its first Dusit Thani Hotel – Dusit Thani Dongtai, Jiangsu Hotel - the first internationally branded deluxe hotel in the city and the first Dusit Thani in the People’s Republic of China.

Exclusive luxury tours with Jacada Travel

Global - Thanks to the experts at luxury private guided tour, Jacada Travel, intimate groups can now welcome the Lunar New Year with new bespoke itineraries, including an European portfolio that launched this year.

Empowered Asian Business Travellers clamour for digital touchpoints and distinct travel experiences

Singapore – With Singapore being the epicentre of travel in Asia, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) commissioned a report on Asian Business Travellers (ABT)

IMEX Frankfurt continues partnership with UNICEO

Germany – IMEX Frankfurt has repeated its partnership with UNICEO, the network for corporate event decision-makers to support IMEX Exclusively Corporate @IMEX on April 18, prior to the show.

CWT report reveals safety and security as priority in 2016 corporate travel; and more

Asia Pacific - The latest Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) report suggests 2016 in corporate travel will focus on safety and security; the same focus that travellers in Asia Pacific have their eyes on.

Case Study: Nu Skin Japan holds travel incentive in Singapore

Singapore – Nu Skin Japan brought 250 of its regional sales leaders for a well-deserved travel incentive to Singapore

Singapore Airlines is first to connect Singapore to Canberra and Wellington

Singapore – Singapore Airlines scores a first to offer flights that will connect the capitals of both Australia and New Zealand to Singapore from September 20, 2016.

New Group CEO for Dusit makes history

Thailand – Dusit International makes history as it welcomes its new Group Chief Executive Officer, the third in the company’s storied 67-year history and the first to be named from outside the founding family.

Centara is now Central Hospitality International

Thailand – With the New Year comes a refreshed corporate identity for Centara Hotels & Resorts, which has been renamed to Central Hospitality International (CHi). The hotel brands, products and services will remain unchanged.

Four Points debuts in Bandung, Indonesia

Indonesia – Bandung welcomes a brand new property to add to its large collection of colonial architecture as Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. opens a Four Points by Sheraton Bandung in Indonesia.

West Java’s CBD welcomes new hotel for business travellers

Indonesia – Holiday Inn Cikarang Jababeka recently opened in West Java’s busy Central Business District. The new hotel offers business travellers and events a perfect base in the heart of Jababeka and easy access to International Industrial Park and top

USD350K worth of MCEC event package up for grabs

Australia – Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) and Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has collaborated with the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) on the launch of the “2016 PCMA Citywide Auction of Melbourne”.

Hong Kong Disneyland

HONG KONG – In celebration of Hong Kong Disneyland’s 10th anniversary, the resort encores the “Travel Industry Salute” that offers travel trade partners up to 40 percent off.

Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central heralded as “Sheraton Grand” property

Macau – Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has announced the designation of Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central as a Sheraton Grand hotel

Hyatt: Rewards for planners

Hyatt Gold Passport Planner Rewards programme is more generous than most on the market.

Shroud of mystery for 2016 AIME Welcome Event venue in Melbourne

Australia – The unique venue for this year’s Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) welcome reception hosted by Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) will remain a mystery until details can be revealed weeks prior to the event.

Grand Hyatt: Tailoring the Experience (Advertorial)

Grand Hyatt hotel brand does its homework to find out what business event delegates really want.

Grand Hyatt: Creating Memories (Advertorial)

Special moments or memorable event spaces can ensure delegates will never forget a Grand Hyatt event.

Grand Hyatt: Focus on Food (Advertorial)

Catering can really take centre stage at business events at all Grand Hyatt hotels.

Grand Hyatt: Business can be a Pleasure (Advertorial)

Conferences and events are serious affairs, but adding an element of fun can help delegates relax and refocus.

Grand Hyatt: Showcase for Hoteliers (Advertorial)

Grant Hyatt Macau shows off its new event venues and value add-ons as it aims to impress 50 international corporate delegates from the hotel industry.

Six new Alila properties meeting planners can look out for

Global - Alila, the contemporary luxury brand under Commune Hotels & Resorts, renowned for its architecture, design and strict eco credentials, will launch six new properties in 2016.

GuocoLand and AccorHotels in landmark deal for new Sofitels in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur

Global – AccorHotels has signed a landmark deal with GuocoLand to manage the group’s two new hotels at Tanjong Pagar Centre, Singapore, and Damansara City, Kuala Lumpur.

Catalonia to host Network of Indian MICE Agents’ first convention

Spain – The city of Barcelona – Catalonia has won the bid to host the first Network of Indian MICE Agents (NIMA) conference from February 1-6 2016, bringing 65 of their agents to explore the region.

Extended hosted buyer programme, new education themes and more at IMEX Frankfurt

Germany – From April 19 – 21, 2016 at Messe Frankfurt, IMEX Frankfurt will provide new exhibitors, educational tracks and networking opportunities dedicated to the business events industry.

AIME to host closer engagement sessions by Saxton

Australia – A series of intimate interviews with inspiring personalities from around the globe, produced by Saxton Speakers Bureau, will be a highlight at the Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME).

Top 3 tips to get your sponsorship opportunity recognised by global brands

Global – The Asian marketplace has become a tremendous opportunity for global brands, but even the most sophisticated organisations need to adapt to effectively realise this.

TCEB reinforces its exhibition industry to expand Thailand’s trade and investment

Thailand – Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) responds to its government policy on the National Strategy and Development Plan by enhancing and reinforcing its exhibition industry in a bid to expand trade and investment nationwide.

Five sustainable reasons to stay on Laucala Private Island

Fiji – Venue or resort buyouts not only provide a high level of appreciation for top achieving employees, but can also offer the ultimate exclusivity and experience for any event.

Amplifying engagement through social media partnerships

Whether we like it or not, social media has become one of the fastest and most effective tools to create content and engage people. To compete in a global market, these businesses have utilised social media platforms to reach audiences far and wide...

More meeting venues with record high signings and openings for Starwood in 2015

USA – With 220 new signed hotel management and franchise agreements plus 105 hotel openings, Starwood scored a record high in 2015 – welcome news for meetings and conference planning.

New Ramada on Kuta Precinct widens Wyndham's footprint in Bali

Indonesia – Wyndham Hotel Group has introduced Ramada Bali Sunset Road Kuta to strengthen its portfolio of brands in South East Asia as part of its larger global development strategy. The company believes Ramada Bali Sunset Road will become a landmark hot

Wee Teck Chan is George P. Johnson Company Singapore’s new MD

Singapore – Wee Teck Chan has assumed the role of Managing Director Singapore for George P. Johnson, and will oversee the expansion of the Singapore office which includes the growth of its already significant digital capabilities.

Westin Bund Center Shanghai appoints new GM

China – Greg Findlay has joined The Westin Bund Center, Shanghai as General Manager, bringing over two decades of experience with Starwood.

Korean exhibition centre plans to develop business events hub in Seoul

South Korea – COEX in Seoul plans to accelerate development in its vicinity, turning it into a global business events base.

Thailand introduces standard to ensure quality of business events venues

Thailand - Thailand sees certification as key to developing country’s competitiveness, and has set up an official standard in a bid to ensure the quality of its business events venues.

Airline inspiration for DoubleTree hotels’ new approach to meetings

USA – Airlines have provided an unusual inspiration for an experimental approach to meetings by Hilton Worldwide’s DoubleTree brand in the US.

Movenpick to operate first integrated resort in Vietnam

Vietnam – In a management deal signed with Ngoi Sao Cua Duong Joint Stock Company, Movenpick Hotels & Resorts will be operating the landmark Movenpick Resort Phu Quoc development when it opens in 2017.

AIME partners with PCMA for Hosted Buyers education programme

The Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) has partnered with the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) for the first time to provide its Hosted Buyers’ education sessions from February 23-24, 2016.

AccorHotels expands with hotel group acquisition and new alliance

AccorHotels has signed the agreement to acquire FRHI Holdings Ltd (FRHI), the parent company of Fairmont, Raffles, and Swissotel, along with a new strategic partnership in Beijing, China to add more than 500 rooms.

Case Study: Telstra’s first event outside Australia

Telstra, Australia’s largest telecommunications and media company gathered 1,200 of its sales and marketing executives worldwide for a global sales strategy meeting in Singapore, ousting Hong Kong’s bid for this event.

New book launched at ibtm world to benefit business events professionals

Spain – An entirely updated edition of the book written by Tony Rogers and Rob Davidson on business events marketing was launched at the recent ibtm world held in Barcelona from November 17-19, 2015.

Gwangju celebrates grand opening of Asia Culture Center

The Asia Culture Center (ACC) in Gwangju, South Korea held its official opening ceremony in late November 2015, and saw 700 delegates, including Korean Prime Minister Kyo-Ahn Hwang in attendance.

The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket welcomes new GM

Piyoros Naronglith has been appointed General Manager at The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket, bringing with him a wealth of experience working in several international and luxury brands.

Park Hotel Group sets foresight to boost business events scene in the region

Allen Law, Chief Executive Officer of Park Hotel Group, shares insights on market trends, corporate social responsibility, and more.

More self-service check-in kiosks in China to cope with rising passenger numbers

China - China’s airports are coping with increasing passenger numbers by offering self-service check-in kiosks and other technologies to smoothen passenger process, according to a new survey.

Le Meridien opens 10th property in India, plus its first resort

India – Le Meridien Nagpur in Central India has opened as the 10th hotel for the brand in the nation, signalling the increasing demand for more event spaces and outdoor venues in the country.

Case study: Asia-Australasia Conference of Radiological Technologists utilises QuickMobile solutions

The long-standing annual Asia-Australasia Conference of Radiological Technologists (AACRT) entered with a more cost-effective and innovative method of facilitaing and enhancing attendee experience via QuickMobile’s Mobile Event App Solution.

STB upgrades website to help event organisers

Singapore - To further help event planners, Singapore Tourism Board has refreshed its MICE website, www.yoursingapore.com/mice, to offer a one-stop portal for planning events in the city.

Echo Entertainment in Australia rebrands

Australia - Australia’s Echo Entertainment Group Limited, one of Australia's largest gaming and entertainment groups, has changed its name to The Star Entertainment Group Limited.

Marriott enhances meeting services app

Global – Marriott International has upgraded its Marriott Meeting Services app to ease the billing process for event planners through customisation and discrete, instant responses.

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts debuts in Dubai

United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Owned by Al Habtoor Group, The St. Regis Dubai debuts as the Emirate’s first fully-integrated urban resort on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Habtoor City.

Pacific World expands into Germany

Germany – Pacific World has confirmed their collaboration with leading European destination management company (DMC), albamy, based in Berlin and London, to create Pacific World Germany.

Sri Lanka’s historic luxury hotel completes major restoration

Sri Lanka – More than 150 years after its debut on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Galle Face Hotel has emerged from a 30-month long facelift.

Luxperience trade show opens buyer registrations early

Australia - Due to an unprecedented number of inquiries, Australia’s global luxury trade event Luxperience has opened its buyer registrations early.

Bids won prove Malaysia’s business events expertise

Malaysia – At ibtm world 2015 earlier today, the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) has revealed a number of notable events it will be hosting in the coming years, including the 55th ICCA Congress in 2016.

China leads in Pacific World Destination Index – October 2015

Global - China has been listed as top destination in the October 2015 edition of the Destination Index survey conducted by global destination and event management company, Pacific World.

Marriott International to acquire Starwood Hotels & Resorts

Global – The boards of directors from both Marriott International, Inc. and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced a unanimous approval of a merger agreement that will create the world’s largest hotel chain.

Seoul MICE Week begins this Friday

South Korea – A series of lectures and presentations from global business events experts is set to take place this week at the 2015 Seoul MICE Week to raise awareness for the MICE industry.

Second Sheraton property opens in Jakarta

Indonesia - A second Sheraton has opened in Jakarta, offering one of the largest event spaces in the Indonesian capital.

Study shows how much the China business events sector is booming

China - A study has found that 138.5 million domestic trips were taken for MICE purposes in 2014, while MICE travellers spent a total of USD110 billion during those trips., according to the first-ever assessment of the market by GBTA Foundation.

The St. Regis brings its signature butler service to Shanghai

China – Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has signed an agreement with Shanghai Huayu Real Estate Co., Ltd., to bring The St. Regis brand to Shanghai by early 2017.

Christopher Chung to oversee sales and marketing for Starwood in Southeast Asia

Asia Pacific – Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific has appointed Christopher Chung as Regional Director of Sales and Marketing for Starwood in Southeast Asia.

General Manager appointed for Manila’s first Conrad hotel

Philippines – Hilton Worldwide has appointed Harald Feurstein as General Manager of Conrad Manila, slated to open in the first quarter of 2016.

AIME trade show’s new Event Director spills the beans for exhibitors

Australia – The Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) welcomed its new Event Director, Ian Wainwright in October to lead the team in delivering an inspirational trade show for the business events industry.

Virtual tours now offered for event organisers

Global - Event organisers considering Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts properties around the world will soon be able to take a virtual tour.

Hotel Baraquda Pattaya makes waves at grand opening party

Thailand - Hotel Baraquda Pattaya MGallery by Sofitel launches with a grand opening party themed around the concept of travelling at night on a luxury cruise.

Thailand leads in sustainability efforts

Thailand initiates new campaign for 2016 to boost reputation as sustainable business events host.

Delve Into Taiwan: Sustainability learning tops winning

The 2015 Asia Super Team competition demonstrates how everyone is a winner in Taiwan.

The Sustainability Issue: Sustainability, who cares?

Biz Events Asia explores sustainability practices that go above and beyond recycling paper. The movement continues to grow globally in hospitality and events. Has Asia finally reached its tipping point?

The Sustainability Issue: The evolution of CSR projects

The future of CSR is here, and it is strategically aligned with business event focus that uses participants’ core skills to drive community benefits.

The Sustainability Issue: Sustainable brands

Events are messengers of brands principles & values- how are the leading brands of the world using events to bring out their sustainability commitments?

The Sustainability Issue: Luxury & Sustainability

Discover what sustainable trends and innovations are driving the delegate experience.

The Sustainability Issue: Gastronomic treats

Sustainable food is a trend worldwide, discover what is filling event attendees’ tummies around the world from farm-to-fork concepts to superfoods.

The Sustainability Issue: Measuring success

Progressive destinations regularly forecast the economic impact of conventions and meetings to destinations. What does the future hold should social and environmental metrics become a common measurement practice?

Preferred Hotels & Resorts joins cause to abolish child trafficking

Global – Preferred Hotels & Resorts has expanded its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme and partnered with Love146, an international human rights organisation whose mission is to end child trafficking and exploitation.

Knowledge: Best Cities keeps on doing it for event organisers

BestCities Global Alliance’s unified model of commitment to excellence is key to sustainable association management.

CEO appointed as SACEOS’ members win big at SEA

Singapore – SACEOS has appointed Tan Guan Heng as its chief executive officer, shortly before its members clinched 12 awards at the prestigious Singapore Experience Awards organised by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).

Luxperience 2015 sees record increase in participants

Australia - Luxperience, in its fourth year took place in its new home at the illustrious Australian Technology Park (ATP) Sydney, adding an awards programme and gala dinner at The Star Event Centre.

Chance to win trip to South Korea

South Korea - International meeting professionals stand a chance to win a trip to South Korea as well as other prizes through a Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) online survey regarding the country’s top attractions.

Senses should be fully engaged in business events

England - Most event organisers believe the senses should be more involved in events to ensure greater engagement among attendees, a survey shows.

Phuket wins three major international exhibitions

Thailand – Gearing up for the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), Royal Phuket Marina (RPM) will be host to three large-scale exhibitions, bringing more than 10,000 visitors to Phuket from October 2015 to January 2016.

First integrated hotel and resort property in India

India - India has just opened its first integrated hotel and resort property, Novotel Imagica Khopoli‎, which features one of the largest meeting spaces in the Lonavla area.

Managing director appointed for Sheraton Macao and The St. Regis Macao

Macau – Janet McNab has been appointed managing director of Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central and The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central, after 25 years of experience with Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

ibtm knowledge programmes to challenge business event thought models

Spain – Existing thought models will be challenged in this year’s IBTM knowledge programmes, to be delivered at IBTM World in Barcelona from November 17 to 19, 2015.

Newly built MGallery hotel opens in central Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam - A newly built, Hotel de Arts Saigon, part of the MGallery Collection, has opened in Ho Chi Minh City, just steps away from Notre Dame Cathedral, the Opera House and the Saigon Central Post Office.

AFTR from Australia wins Asia Super Team 2015 in Taiwan

Taiwan – AFTR has triumphed over five other corporate groups from Asia Pacific and emerged as the winner of last week’s Asia Super Team competition, walking away with a USD50,000 incentive travel package.

Coex bounces back with three major conventions this year

South Korea – After a relatively quiet summer, Coex Convention and Exhibition Center is set to welcome a total of 8,800 visitors by the end of 2015 with three major conventions.

DOSM appointed at JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok

Thailand – Helene Fong has moved to JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok as its newest director of sales and marketing from her previous stint at JW Marriott Hong Kong as director of marketing.

Mercedes-Benz teams up with Frasers Hospitality with special accommodation for business travellers.

England - Luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz has turned its attention to designing apartments for business travellers.

AccorHotels appoints sustainable development and communications director for APAC

Asia Pacific – AccorHotels has appointed Lynn Lee as the sustainable development and communications director for 17 countries across the Asia Pacific region.

Deanna Varga helmed into museum’s executive team through proven success

Australia - The Australian National Maritime Museum has welcomed its newest executive team member, Deanna Varga, as assistant director, commercial & visitor services.

Is talent management important to your business?

Singapore – Biz Events Asia is set to host a panel to discuss “The Importance of Talent Management: How to Improve the Profitability of your Business through Talent Management?” on October 22, 1230 hours at this year’s ITB Asia (October 21 – 23, 2015).

First Novotel for Philippines opens

Philippines - AccorHotels is introducing the Novotel brand to The Philippines in October with the Novotel Manila Araneta Center.

Cover Story: South Korea Continues to Impress

South Korea - Discover plenty of reasons to conduct events and incentive trips around South Korea’s regional destinations.

The Procurement Issue: Finding solutions through offline conversation

Uncovering much needed conversations in the strategic procurement of business events

The Procurement Issue: Challenges that hinder the event procurement process

Challenges that hinder the event procurement process

Delve into China: Xian - The Silk Road Metaphor

China - Biz Events Asia visits the gateway of two historic silk roads in China to uncover new ways of developing team strategies.

Delve into China: Chengdu - The Southern Silk Road

China - Flow onto Chengdu for more historical discoveries that can create team bonding.

Knowledge: Transforming tradeshows

Why bother exhibiting?

Delve into: South Korea - Seoul’s unrelenting pull

South Korea - South Korea’s capital ramps up its support programmes and shares more unique venues to stay ahead in attracting business events. Against all odds, how does Seoul continue to attract business event groups?

Knowledge: The Art of Professionalism

What are the key factors that make or break professionalism?

ASEAN forum in Bangkok to discuss regional approach for business events

Thailand – Making its debut in Bangkok on September 29, 2015, the ASEAN MICE Forum (AMF) @ IT&CMA will discuss a regional approach to hosting business events.

Accor raises flag over two new properties in World Heritage township of Hoi An in Vietnam

Vietnam - On Vietnam’s central coast, the World Heritage township of Hoi An has two new upmarket hotels suitable for incentive groups or small conferences – Hotel Royal Hoi An and Mercure Hoi An Royal , both AccorHotels properties.

Travellers in Asia can now change coins and banknotes into digital currency at airport

Philippines - A system that lets international travellers deposit leftover foreign coins and banknotes directly into online accounts has reached Asia.

Starwood introducing new brand with hotel about to open in Hokkaido

Japan - Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has introduced the Tribute Portfolio brand in Asia Pacific with the signing of The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Hokkaido.

Talent: Event Photography

Singapore – With a new wave of millennials joining the booming business events industry, Singapore lacks no talent. Love Confetti is an event photography start-up specialising in corporate photoshoots, product launch, wedding and event photography.

Travel group introduces business events options including private jets and cruises

Global - Targeting the business events market, Australian travel group APT Group has introduced a three-tiered offering across four of its brands.

Venues at the new St. Regis Macao offer views over Macau’s Cotai Strip

Macau - In a first for Macau, the five meeting rooms at the new St. Regis Macao boast views of Cotai Strip through floor-to-ceiling windows.

MCI forms global alliance with Emirates airline

Global - Events company MCI has formed a global alliance with Emirates, appointing it the official airline for its international events. In turn, MCI will be the airline’s preferred PCO.

AccorHotels revamps and renames Korea’s first business hotel in Gangnam

Korea - AccorHotels has gone Gangnam style with a refurbishment and rebrand of the former Ibis Ambassador Seoul Gangnam property in the Korean capital, which is now Ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Gangnam.

British Airways opens dedicated lounge at Changi Airport in Singapore

Singapore - As part of its SG$1 billion (US$ 702.6 million) investment in improving customer experience, British Airways has launched a dedicated lounge at Terminal 1 at Singapore’s Changi Airport.

Seoul MICE Alliance adds numbers to its strength

South Korea – The Seoul MICE Alliance (SMA) has added 28 new organisations to its membership, bringing the total to 195 members.

New meetings concept launched for Radisson Blu hotels across APAC

Asia Pacific – Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has rolled out its Radisson Blu hotel brand’s signature meetings programme, Experience Meetings, a new meetings concept that leverages on technology and innovation, customer insight and research.

The Incentive Travel Issue: Reward, Attract and Retain

Biz Events Asia highlights key trends and important elements of the incentive travel business in its current form.

Delve Into China: Pumped up Beijing

China - Beijing’s ability to leverage on history proves its strong hold on business events in China.

Public Relations: The search for why and how we can take PR to the boardroom

For many, when one thinks of public relations, they think of champagne swirling media junkies whom you call in a crisis. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth

Legal Mind: Bridging legal and sales

Clear communication between departments have never been more crucial in preventing legal risks in businesses.

Rise of a new standard in Chinese luxury hospitality

China - An idea that sparked the birth of what would be the first Chinese international luxury hotel brand led to NUO Hotel Beijing, a brand derived from the Chinese meaning “the golden promise”.

Delve Into Thailand: Incentive amongst nature

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau uses unity, partnership and nature to inspire creativity for an incentive programme.

Delve Into Thailand: Honest Conversations

Biz Events Asia formed an intimate focus group and a business events forum in Bangkok to discuss destination Thailand and how event agencies define partnerships with sellers.

Delve Into Thailand: Bangkok Sensation

AccorHotels delivered a successful familiarisation trip to Bangkok that expressed its brand new people-centric philosophy called “feel welcome”.

Cover Story: Double Victory in Malaysia

Malaysia - Event planners can find plenty of winning diversions for their clients in Malaysia – and be rewarded for sending them there.

Delve Into Vietnam: Hybrid Events

Vietnam is ramping up its offering for incentive groups.

Meaningful Incentives

Incentivising and rewarding a generation that may not wait a year for performance appraisal.

Delve Into Macau: Holding the Aces

It’s game on as more luxury hotels embrace Macau, with business events set to be the winning hand.

Delve Into Macau: Kai Petry

Cultural awareness of the diversity of participants coupled with a passion to create memorable experiences for each individual are the keys to success for business events – for the customer, the organiser and the hosting hotel.

Mitigating risk in incentive travel

When should incentive travel plans be put on hold in the face of a natural disaster or potential health epidemic? Ronald Loke of Arthur J. Gallagher guides corporate event planners to achieve an ideal mind set where the unexpected is expected.

Bangkok's heightened security measures to normalise business events scene

Thailand - The Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has said in a statement following the bomb blast in central Bangkok in mid-August 2015 that the business events industry is working as per normal.

New venue as Luxperience expands

Australia - With a record number of exhibitors in its fourth year, the luxury and experiential travel trade exhibition Luxperience in Sydney has moved to a new venue, Australian Technology Park.

Starwood rolls out Sheraton Grand brand

Global - In an international roll-out, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has introduced Sheraton Grand, a premier tier recognising properties in special destinations for their design and guest experiences.

Global platform for Japan as DMC joins Europe-based consortium

Japan - With more than 50 years of experience in the business events industry, Tokyo-based DMC Japan (by Kintetsu International) has joined the Euromic international consortium of event and destination management companies.

Hotels in Malaysia and Thailand rebrand as Pullman

Regional - Two hotels, each in Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, have been rebranded by AccorHotels as Pullman properties, adding 927 guest rooms to the brand in Asia.

Case Study: GLOBALFOUNDRIES engages etouches as its event registration solution

Japan – Full-service semiconductor foundry, GLOBALFOUNDRIES, started utilising etouches last year as its event management platform for the 10 seminars that are organised annually.

Biz Events Asia engages guest editors and invites readers to vote for 2016 overarching themes

Singapore - Publisher and managing director of Biz Events Asia, El Kwang, continues to helm the editorial direction after bidding farewell to editor, Kristie Thong in early August 2015.

Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre draws thousands in recruitment drive

Muscat – The Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre’s (OCEC) last wave of recruitment drive as it prepares for its opening next year has attracted over 3,400 job applications to fill almost 50 positions.

Reed to manage AIME for another three years

Australia – The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) has signed Reed Travel Exhibitions (Reed) to continue managing business events tradeshow, Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME), for a further three years.

SingEx CEO elected AIPC vice president

Singapore – Aloysius Arlando, chief executive officer of SingEx has been elected vice president for AIPC (International Association of Congress Centres) at its Annual Conference and General Assembly in Boston last month.

Hotel planned for Harbin in China

China - China’s Hua Hong Group and Regent Hotels & Resorts have signed an agreement to build a hotel in the new Hua Hong International Center in Harbin, north-east of China.

Wired up: Honey, they stole my conference

Consumer-based video live-streaming apps such as Meerkat and Periscope have made their way into audience experiences. Is it a risk for the business events industry, or a viable option of added opportunity?

MICE Exhibition 2015 to boost business events scene in Singapore

Singapore – The MICE Asia Pacific Exhibition 2015 (MICE 2015), taking place from September 10 – 11 at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, will aim to connect business event professionals across the region.

Talent and Mentor: Paying it forward

Taking the time to help others can leave you feeling as if you have more time, not less.

Snaps from Wine Down Wednesday at Highlander Chijmes

Thank you to everyone who took the time to join us at this month's Wine Down Wednesday, as well as sponsors Duetto and Highlander at Chijmes for hosting us.

The Associations Issue

In the month of August, Biz Events Asia examines the associations marketplace and observes a slow but firm move towards collaboration, innovation and expansion.

Nimble associations take the lead

Biz Events Asia drops in on PCMA’s head honcho in the week of ibtm america in Chicago to find out more about the shifting tides in the associations marketplace.

Benefits beyond borders

PCMA's event for Asia Pacific will bring about benefits for Melbourne, where the city is set to deliver its effect in the region.

Associations at the heart of business events

Guest editor John Peacock, general manager of Australia-based Associations Forum, suggests a strong correlation between associations and business events.

Australian associations look to boost performance

The 10th edition of the Associations Forum held at the Adelaide Convention Centre highlighted issues in the mature Australian associations sector while giving Adelaide an opportunity to shine.

Korea gets in on the ACTE

The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) introduced its Education Forum to the Korean market this year, in response to the market’s growing need for best practices.

AFECA comes of age

The 10th anniversary of the Asian Federation of Exhibition and Convention Associations marks the start of a greater push for industry professionalism.

Amway China returns to Sydney in 2017

Australia – Anticipation for the upcoming convention centre and an appealing array of incentive activities are few reasons why Amway China have chosen to host its Leadership Seminar in Sydney come 2017.

Chicago's Empress of Schmooze

Biz Events Asia experienced lasting passion from Audrey Gordon, a special events veteran based in Chicago, through the power of social media.

Thailand treats Belgium buyers to true incentive experiences

Travelling with an intimate group of Belgium buyers from Bangkok to Krabi shows Santhiti Arunsit the perfect mix of elements needed for a memorable incentive experience.

TCEB goes all out with 10th Connections Plus in 2015

A familiarisation programme is only as good as its hospitality – and Thailand shows Biz Events Asia the true meaning of going the extra mile through TCEB.

Starwood debuts Luxury Collection in Nanjing

China – The Grand Mansion, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nanjing is the latest addition to the distinguished Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts portfolio and the seventh branded hotel in China.

Delve Into Singapore: SACEOS' steady steer

How an association’s drive for change and development transformed the business events industry in Singapore.

Accor resort on Sentosa joins SACEOS efforts

Hosting AMITE buyers was a perfect way to showcase what’s to come after the refurbishment of The Singapore Resort & Spa Sentosa Managed by Accor.

Grand Hyatt Singapore showcases event spaces with SACEOS

Hosting SACEOS' AMITE buyers for a cocktail event paid dividends for Grand Hyatt Singapore – and also provided an unexpected treat for the guests.

South Korea declares end of MERS outbreak

South Korea – The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has announced the end of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreak in the country, after 23 days since the last suspected case had been reported.

Hyatt Regency Kuantan revamps from Sept 2015

Malaysia – Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort will be reinventing its 300 guest rooms and suites starting September 1, 2015, and will close for approximately 12 months during renovations.

Knowledge: Find the event sponsorship ROI sweet spot

One can only deliver an event sponsorship objective if it is fully known or understood from the beginning.

Knowledge: Engage speakers the right way

Engage speakers for an event with a comprehensive agreement to minimise risks or unwanted surprises.

Knowledge: Understanding Associations

Whether you are delivering an event from within an association or as outsourced help, there are things about the unusual market that you might need to know.

Thailand CONNECT keeps Thailand top of mind

Thailand – The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has launched new welcome packages for business event visitors, announced at the Thailand CONNECT Bangkok – Khao Yai international media familiarisation trip this week.

The Holy Crab encourages gadget-free dining

Indonesia – The Holy Crab, a seafood establishment in Bali is encouraging diners and corporate groups to get their hands dirty while indulging in a temporary gadget-free experience.

The House on Sathorn opens in Bangkok

Thailand – The House on Sathorn has opened in Bangkok this month, upping the ante in the capital’s dynamic dining and business events scene with a 126-year-old colonial mansion concept.

Rebrand spots new event format at ibtm america

USA - ibtm america (formerly AIBTM), the annual trade show in America organised by Reed Travel Exhibitions, went beyond a simple name change this year.

AccorHotels invests in future leaders

Global – AccorHotels has seen a growth in its talent pool with the latest batch of 15 future leaders graduating from the International Hospitality Management Program (IHMP) for Asia Pacific.

BCD combines talent pool and services

Global – BCD M&I and BCD Travel Groups have now been integrated under a new global operating unit, BCD Meetings & Events, headed by former BCD M&I’s global president, Scott Graf.

Tourism Australia deepens China ties with partnerships

China – Tourism Australia has signed three strategic marketing deals in China aimed at attracting high-yielding travellers and business event professionals.

UNESCO grows list of World Heritage Sites

Global – The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Committee has revealed a list of newly inscribed sites, some of which come from Asian destinations such as China, Singapore, South Korea and Mongolia.

Mobile technology will not replace face-to-face meetings

Asia Pacific – Mobile event apps in the market today have the ability to improve the quality of face-to-face meetings, according to Craig Brennan, chief executive officer of QuickMobile.

AIME 2016 shapes agenda with advisory board

Australia – The Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) has gathered some of the business events industry’s most experienced buyers, sellers and influencers to form the AIME Advisory Board.

Reed Exhibitions chairman to retire end of 2015

Worldwide – Chairman of Reed Exhibitions Mike Rusbridge will be retiring at the end of this year and leaving the company in the hands of CEO Chet Burchett.

Park Hotel Alexandra opens in Singapore

Singapore – Park Hotel Alexandra has opened its doors this month with 442 guest rooms and suites along the CBD’s fringe, with easy access to both business and leisure locations.

Grand Hyatt Incheon West Tower receives LEED Gold Certification

South Korea – Grand Hyatt Incheon’s West Tower was recently awarded the LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Gold Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a community of LEED developed and certified buildings.

Biz Events Asia appoints Louis Allen as contributing editor

Asia Pacific – Louis Allen has joined the Biz Events Asia team as contributing editor, in line with the magazine’s growth and continued objective of providing rich, curated editorial content.

Biz Events Asia appoints Australia campaign advisor

Australia – Sydney-based meetings and events veteran Tanya Brown has been appointed campaign advisor covering the Australian market.

Singapore MICE Forum gains global recognition

Singapore – Held from July 2 – 3, 2015 at the Marina Bay Sands, the 2015 edition of Singapore MICE Forum will be featuring an esteemed panel of speakers and a number of trends within the industry.

Singapore MICE Forum lists speakers and topic line-up

Singapore – Held from July 2 – 3, 2015 at the Marina Bay Sands, the 2015 edition of Singapore MICE Forum will be featuring an esteemed panel of speakers and a number of trends within the industry.

AccorHotels appoints COO for Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore

Regional – Garth Simmons has been appointed to the position of chief operating officer for Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore at AccorHotels, taking effect from July 1, 2015.

Bali & Beyond Travel Fair draws satisfaction despite drop in numbers

Indonesia – Bali & Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF) 2015 concluded recently with tours sending domestic and international buyers beyond Bali to experience what Indonesia has to offer.

Delve Into Singapore: Creativity takes business centre stage

30 minutes with Aloysius Arlando, CEO of SingEx Holdings Pte Ltd, gave Biz Events Asia a look into his vision of a sustainable CONFEX business model.

ibtm china highlights knowledge programmes as key

China – Taking place in Beijing's China National Convention Centre from August 5 – 6, 2015, ibtm china is set to deliver two days of meaningful business connections through a series of programmes.

The Luxury of Talent

Scrap the idea of a talent crunch: We have the talent in Asia. But do we know how to get the right hire?

Delve Into: Singapore

Why Singapore continues to stack up as a place for business and memorable experiences.

Engage: C-Festival in Seoul draws global audience

The inaugural “C-Festival” promoted the capabilities of a newly-formed, Gangnam-based “MICE Cluster” of event venues, shopping, and entertainment providers.

Cover Story: Shanghai surges on

The Chinese city named “Paris of the East” continues to attract business events as it grows in economic stature and prominence while remaining true to culture and innovation.

Make time count in Shanghai

Do you have some time to spare, or a chance to make use of China’s 72-Hour Visa Free Transit policy? We point out some interesting finds in the global city that might be worth your time.

One Farrer Hotel & Spa pulls off successful spa launch outdoors

Singapore – About 350 guests turned up at the official launch of One Farrer Hotel & Spa’s Lifestyle Podium & Spa Retreat, despite a slight drizzle in Singapore hours prior to the outdoor event.

Malaysia wins third insurance congress bid

Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur is set to be the host destination for the 16th Asia Pacific Life Insurance Congress (16th APLIC) taking place May 17 – 19, 2017.

Industry appointments tracked across the region

Regional – Here is a round-up of some of the recent appointments in the Asia Pacific region.

Singapore wows Forever Living Products delegation in 2015

High-achieving qualifiers of US-based healthcare marketing conglomerate Forever Living Products were treated to a time of their lives in Singapore. Biz Events Asia goes behind the scenes.

Myanmar, Thailand join hands to attract long-haul visitors

ASEAN – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) together with Bangkok Airways and the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, Myanmar has launched a joint familiarisation trip to promote products and services to the Europe and US markets.

Singapore extends visa validity to boost visitor arrivals from China

Singapore – The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has extended the validity of Multiple Journey Visas (MJVs) issued to nationals from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), in line with efforts of the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to increase visit

Pacific World partners local DMC in Japan

Japan – The strategic alliance with JTB Global Marketing & Travel will help Pacific World showcase Japan as a meetings and incentive destination.

Preferred Hotels & Resorts adds to its portfolio

Global – Preferred Hotels & Resorts has introduced six new properties scheduled to launch by the end of this year. Ideal for the business events market, these independent hotels can accommodate intimate retreats or large-scale business events.

Accor promotes Gaynor Reid to VP comms for Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific – Accor has promoted Gaynor Reid to vice president of communications for Asia Pacific, where she will also sit on the group’s executive committee for Asia Pacific.

Business Events Australia, Dynasty Travel join forces to attract Singapore market

Singapore – Following its recent stop in Hangzhou, China during its North Asia Showcase, Business Events Australia together with Dynasty Travel reached out to Singapore-based buyers during its Southeast Asia Showcase.

Makati Shangri-La hosts first show for business events

Philippines – Dubbed “Experience Shangri-la, Experience MEET”, the very first MICE Fair of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts in the Philippines was held at the Isabela Ballroom of Makati Shangri-La, Manila in late April this year.

Alison Taylor fulfils her dreams from Oz to the global stage

Global – In an exclusive interview, Alison Taylor, senior vice-president of sales and revenue management for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in Asia Pacific, talks about her expectations for Starwood and her team as she prepares to take on a global ro

OZO Wesley Hong Kong

Hong Kong - OZO Wesley Hong Kong is now offering a 20 percent discount on meeting packages booked with 20 or more room nights for any business event.

Grand Hyatt Incheon

South Korea - Grand Hyatt Incheon has launched a new “Grand Value Meeting Package” designed to provide meeting and event planners as well as medical tourism extra value and support from now till June 30, 2016.

The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok appoints DOSM

Thailand – Nongluck Narkman has been appointed director of sales and marketing for The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok, bringing over 20 years of experience in the areas of conventions and catering.

Delve Into Okinawa: A game changer in Okinawa

How the southernmost part of Japan turned into a massive sporting arena for corporate events.

The Meetings and Conventions Issue

From the vast economic impact to the racing pace of change, is the industry ready to raise the standards in the business of international meetings and conventions?

Knowledge: Selling effectively from the exhibition stand

Success at an exhibition stand depends on canvassing and not selling, according to David Hackett of Meetings Guru Ltd.

Talent and Mentor: Why mentoring matters

Are you thinking of becoming a mentor? Industry veteran Jenny Salsbury speaks of the lessons she has gained as one.

Delve Into Dubai: Make it happen in Dubai

Biz Events Asia goes on a mega familiarisation trip hosted by Dubai Business Events, which shone the light on some reasons why Dubai adds up as a business events destination.

Delve Into Dubai: Action-packed Dubai

Once in the Emirate, a plethora of activities await business travellers.

Delve Into Dubai: Reaching new heights in Dubai

Our recent visit to the world’s tallest hotel, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, sees its vision align with the bureau’s goal to double tourist visitation numbers to 20 million by 2020 and to woo business events with an irresistible proposition.

Delve Into Dubai: Dubai’s hospitality heartbeat

A mega famil by Dubai Business Events recommends a variety of hotels – ranging from five-star opulence to the affordable – that exude friendly and efficient service consistent in Dubai.

Knowledge: Utilise meeting breaks

A break in a meeting or conference programme does not have to be lost time. Plan your breaks for greater engagement and productivity.

Delve Into Philippines: A new dawn in business events

It’s not just fun in the Philippines – business events are looking up this year after several years of inactivity.

MALAYSIA | A vibrant mix of cultures for unique events

ITINERARY: MALAYSIA DAY ONE 1) Make your way into the heart of old Kuala Lumpur by starting out with the KL Heritage Trail. Before you explore and work your feet, have a hearty meal at various street hawker food stalls around Chinatown (Petaling Stree

SINGAPORE | Seamless infrastructure & top-notch efficiency

ITINERARY: SINGAPORE A STEP AHEAD Start off your expedition with a visit to the Singapore City Gallery, where a guided tour will take you through the city’s interesting history of planning and development. Stunning interactive exhibits will transport

THAILAND | THE LAND OF SMILES

ITINERARY: BANGKOK DAY 1 1) Arrive in style at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport with a special meet-and-greet at the plane gate for fast-track immigration assistance and VIP transfer. Enjoy another memorable welcome luncheon reception by the river terra

HONG KONG | A unique blend of eastern & western influences

ITINERARY – Hong Kong DAY ONE: THE CITY 1) Enjoy Hong Kong’s famous breakfast dim sum breakfast on the 102th floor, with floor to ceiling windows showing off the city’s breathtaking views. 2) Explore the colourful sights of Hong Kong on a double-decke

MACAU | A city of great contrasts

ITINERARY: MACAU DAY 1 1) Start the day in late morning by boosting your delegates’ adrenalin with thrilling experiences at Macau Tower Bungy Jump, home to the world’s second highest bungy jump, skywalk X, skyjump, high exposure and the world’s only ur

INDONESIA | A melting pot of options for meetings and events

ITINERARY: BALI DAY 1 1) Begin the day in Ubud with breakfast overlooking the vibrant green paddies of Tanah Gajah towards Bali’s sacred mountains, at The Restaurant of the Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah. Explore the traditional artisan culture and atmosphe

SOUTH KOREA | MADE TO INSPIRE

ITINERARY: SEOUL DAY 1: EXPERIENCE KOREAN CULTURE IN A DAY 1) Start your journey by soaking in centuries of history at the National Museum of Korea, housing both a rich permanent exhibit and many travelling exhibits from abroad. Take your time to disco

VIETNAM | Business events in old-world charm

ITINERARY: HANOI DAY 1: DISCOVER HANOI 1) Arrange for early arrival in Hanoi to allow delegates time for a hearty breakfast followed by a few hours of relaxation after a long flight. Check in at any of the two most recommended hotels –Sofitel Legend Met

PHILIPPINES | An archipelago of more than 7000 islands

ITINERARY: MANILA DAY ONE 1) Arrive in Manila and take a ride on one of the local transports – the Jeepney – to your designated hotel. 2) Freshen up and enjoy a welcome dinner at Barbara’s, adjacent to Casa Manila Museum. The restaurant features tradi

CHINA | Endless meetings and incentive choices

ITINERARY: SHANGHAI DAY ONE Arrive in Shanghai. Make delegates feel welcome to the city by hosting an evening cocktail cruise along the Huangpu River to enjoy Shanghai’s night scene. DAY TWO 1) Have delegates experience a Tai Chi exercise prior

JAPAN | Executing world-class events in full bloom

ITINERARY: SAPPORO DAY ONE 1) Start the adventure in Sapporo with a visit to the Sapporo Art Park. Made up of The Museum of Contemporary Art, the Sculpture Garden, various craft halls and studios and artists’ cottages, the overall concept of this park

TAIWAN | Home to many scenic wonders

ITINERARY IDEAS DAY ONE Visit the Longshan Temple, a famous old temple for worshipping Guanshiyin Budda and other divine spirits. Built in the Qianlong 5th year in the Qing Dynasty, it has been restored after being subjected caused by natural disaster

AYANA Resort and Spa launches ocean-front venue

Indonesia – AYANA Resort and Spa has launched SKY, an ocean-front venue in an exclusively private cliff-top location as part of a multi-million dollar upgrade to its event facilities.

India | Exotic Destination for Event Planners

ITINERARY: INDIA DAY ONE: A WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE Arrive in Indira Gandhi International Airport the night before. The day starts in Delhi with a visit to Jama Masjid – the largest mosque in India, followed by a walking tour of the Chandni Chowk – the

Pullman's first Saigon hotel opens

Vietnam –Pullman Saigon Centre officially opened its doors this year, making it the first Pullman property in Ho Chi Minh City and the third in Vietnam.

Pacific World engages emotions to drive motivation

Global – Pacific World will be unveiling seven themes in a new series of bespoke incentive programmes that focus on experiences that motivates and engages emotions at this year’s IMEX America.

Three unique venues in historical Nagoya

Japan – The bustling city of Nagoya is the third largest economic centre in Japan and boasts a long legacy from the Tokugawa era. It has a cityscape that combines its fascinating history with its modern urban design, and we’ve picked three unique venues

Christchurch wins bid to host structural engineering congress

New Zealand – The International Association of Bridge and Structural Engineering has chosen to host its September 2020 congress in Christchurch, drawing 550 delegates from around the world.

FCM Travel launches all-encompassing travel suite

Global – FCM Travel Solutions has launched FCM 360, a new product suite which aims to deliver an all-encompassing travel experience with three categories – FCM 360 technology, FCM 360 travel and FCM 360 services.

New helm at BCD Travel Greater China

China – BCD Travel has appointed Jonathan Kao as the new Managing Director for its Greater China market, which includes BCD Travel China and BCD Travel Hong Kong.

Watch: Biz Events Asia speaks to Australian National Maritime Museum

Biz Events Asia speaks to Australian National Maritime Museum & Optus on their annual Christmas party in Sydney and how Fourth Wall - the Collective of Creators, who produced and managed this event with Optus, maximise usage of space within the museum.


Deals (30 Results)

Starwood Hotels & Resorts

Book a meeting or event at a participating SPG® hotel or resort in Asia Pacific, and get your choice of three rewards

Langham Hospitality Group

Langham Hospitality Group has launched its No Strings Attached PLUS programme, offering event planners and organisers more flexibility with exclusive rewards and privileges.

The Fullerton Hotel Singapore

Combine work and play at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore with exclusive offers on Corporate Meeting Packages.

Novotel Suites Hanoi

Allow Novotel Suites Hanoi meeting specialists to provide expert guidance for your conference, meetings and seminars of up to 215 persons. 180 sq m of modular upscale ballroom with high-tech equipment in a contemporary environment.

Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam

The city of angels beckons! MICE groups can enjoy additional benefits at Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam and be right in the middle of it all.

Grand Mercure Danang

Grand Mercure Danang is the ideal venue for all occasions. With its world-class accommodation, state-of-the-art meeting facilities and colourful attractions, the hotel promises an unforgettable experience

Pullman Bangkok King Power

Free duty free cash voucher with a minimum of seven rooms booked, including meeting package until October 31, 2017.

JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok

Event planning cannot get any more rewarding than at JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok.

The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok

Get more for less with complimentary Skytrain passes for all meeting attendees plus airport transfers and “Fast Track” service for VIPs.

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square located in the centre of the business and shopping districts with easy access to the BTS Skytrain.

Ibis Saigon Airport

Ibis Saigon Airport offers a wide selection of meeting space includes boardroom capable to accommodate 217 guests.

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila has released its Meetings Unlimited package for meetings and conventions.

Crowne Plaza® Changi Airport

Make the most of every business opportunity with this special free meeting package deal from Crowne Plaza® Changi Airport.

The Langham Hong Kong

Stage an immersive meeting to deliver an experiential environment that fully engages delegates with The Langham, Hong Kong’s Meaningful Meetings for the Senses.

New World Millennium Hong Kong Hotel

New World Millennium Hong Kong Hotel has launched its “Power Meetings” package for meeting planners to take advantage.

Sands Resorts Macao

Create the ultimate “smart” event all under one roof with Smart Meetings at Sands Resorts Macao, comprising seven distinctive properties spanning over 150,000 sq m of versatile meeting spaces.

Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort

The event spaces at Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort are designed for performance.

Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach

Perched above Phuket’s Naithon Beach, the stunning unblocked ocean views from the lobby of Pullman Phuket Arcadia take delegates’ breath away whilst injecting a sense of renewal as soon as they arrive.

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort

Host your event within the most sophisticated meeting facilities in Siem Reap or against the grandeur of ancient Angkor monuments.

Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort

Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort, located in a prime location in north Pattaya with direct access to the beach, is now offering attractive meeting packages.

ibis Bangkok Riverside

Located next to Chao Phraya River and close to the lifestyle shopping and dining venue, Asiatique, ibis Bangkok Riverside is a fresh, fun and friendly hotel offering great value and beautiful river views.

Novotel Danang Premier Han River

Uniquely located in Danang downtown on the beautifully designed West Bank of the Han River, Novotel Danang Premier Han River is set to take its place as a premier hotel and events venue.

Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20

Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 offers a range of meeting and events venues including a Grand Ballroom that can welcome up to 800 participants and an additional of six meeting room.

Harbour Grand Hong Kong

From now until December 2017, plan your meeting at Harbour Grand Hong Kong to enjoy complimentary room or suite upgrade, and more.

Marina Mandarin Singapore

Marina Mandarin Singapore seeks to deliver the best as they cater to business needs with their full suite of dedicated facilities and services.

The St. Regis Singapore

The St. Regis Singapore invites meeting and event planners to join the hotel’s efforts in building a better environment. Its sustainable meeting offer allows you to go green and contributes to the venue’s plans for more eco-conscious corporate events.

Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort & Spa

Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort & Spa is offering a new dimension for meetings and events.

Amara Singapore

MICE organisers and guests looking to host their events at Amara Singapore now have the option to enjoy an array of Halal-certified menus which are exclusively prepared and served from its events kitchen.

The Slate Phuket

Relaunched in August 2016, The Slate Phuket is offering a holistic wellbeing MICE package to encourage creativity and team-bonding for the modern, health-conscious business executive.

Grand Hyatt Hong Kong

At Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, every experience calls for a celebration, and indulgence is a way of life. Host your next meeting at one of the 21 event and meeting venues and discover spectacular experiences that will surprise and delight you and your guests.


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Immersive learning in New York City

800 business events strategists convened in New York City for the PCMA Education Conference held at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel this week and were introduced to immersive learning experiences through six unique locations across the city.

“Rice” to the challenge with these 4 team bonding ideas in Thailand

Sponsored – Bind the core values of Thai culture and its people to your meeting and incentive programme for a creatively themed and knowledge-based experience.

Agribusiness cultivates a taste for Adelaide

Australian and international associations in the Agriculture, Food and Wine industries take a look at the event opportunities as well as the business reasons for convening in Adelaide.

WATCH: Event planners want to be engaged

As the business events industry gears up for Singapore MICE Forum 2017’s re:imagine #EngagE theme, Biz Events Asia talks to event planners at IMEX Frankfurt about their take on engagement. What’s yours?

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