All Posts By

Julia Rahman

Sep 20
0

MICE Show Asia 2026 Expands Exhibition Space

By | 2026, Press Room

It will return from October 21 to 23 with an expanded space by 83 percent at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre.

The expansion reflects a demand for business events opportunities across the region, as buyers and suppliers navigate changing expectations around destinations, event experiences, flexibility, technology, sustainability and the growing importance of measurable business and experiential value.

MICE Show Asia 2026 will feature a curated line-up of MICE-focused activities designed to enrich the attendee experience, including the new Association Executive Networking Session, the returning Pinnacle Partners Experience and the Global MICE Collaborative’s MICE Fundamentals Workshop, creating more opportunities for networking, professional development and industry exchange.

For more information, visit:  www.miceshowasia.com 

Sep 20
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Travel Tech Asia 2026 Expands Business Opportunities with New Hosted Buyer Programme

By | 2026, Press Room

More than 50 exhibitors, including Agoda, Airalo, China Mobile International Limited, SiteMinder, Trip.com will showcase their latest innovations in artificial intelligence, connectivity, booking and distribution, payments, hospitality technology and digital travel.

It will be held alongside ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia, Travel Tech Asia forms part of Asia’s leading travel trade gathering with all three co-located events from October 21 to 23 at Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore.

The event will also feature leading industry voices and discussions on the key trends driving the next generation of travel technology, from artificial intelligence and digital transformation to connectivity and new business models.

A key highlight of Travel Tech Asia 2026 is the introduction of a dedicated hosted buyer programme focused exclusively on travel technology. The programme is designed to connect solution providers with a distinct audience of technology-focused buyers, including CIOs, CTOs and procurement leaders from hospitality, travel agencies, destination management companies.

Expected to welcome around 100 quality buyers from the travel technology sector, the programme responds to the growing demand for technology solutions that support digital transformation, operational efficiency and innovation across the travel industry.

While the dedicated travel technology buyer segment complements the established buyer communities of ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia, providing a more targeted environment for technology-led purchasing discussions and business opportunities

For more information, visit: www.itb-asia.com 

Jul 22
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Jason Tan Chin Foo Appointed Chief Executive Officer of Business Events Sarawak

By | 2026, Press Room

Mr. Tan’s appointment is with immediate effect. He will now, lead BESarawak into its next phase of growth with a vision to strengthen Sarawak’s position, as a globally competitive business events destination through collaboration, innovation and legacy-driven development.

Sarawak has built strong foundations over the years added Mr. Tan. “My aspiration is to bring these strengths together into a more connected and future-ready business events ecosystem by strengthening collaboration, aligning our collective capabilities, and creating an environment where innovation, partnerships and opportunities can thrive.”

Jason Tan (right) receiving his appointment letter from Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary Operation and Chairman of BESarawak.

Since joining BESarawak in 2012, he has held key leadership positions across Business Development, International Event Bidding, Research, Marketing and Communications, contributing significantly to Sarawak’s emergence as one of Asia Pacific’s leading business events destinations.

Datu Hii Chang Kee who is the deputy state secretary operation and chairman of BESarawak, mentioned that Jason Tan’s appointment reflects both continuity and confidence in the bureau’s future direction.

All of us in MICE in Asia would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Jason Tan on his appointment as Chief Executive Officer of BESarawak.

Jun 25
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Global Travel Brands Unite for WTE Miami 2026

By | 2026, Press Room

Considered to be one of the world’s valuable travel markets, the WTE Miami will bring together the global travel industry to explore the trends, technologies and partnerships shaping the future of tourism on October 27 to 28, 2026 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Visitor registration is now open for the exhibition, which is expected to double in size and impact after its acquisition earlier this year by Fairfest Media.

Over 500 exhibitors, 7,000 buyers, 500 hosted and VIP buyers, and senior industry leaders from around the world will converge for the largest gathering of national tourism organisations at any travel trade show in the Americas.

“The travel industry is entering one of the most significant periods of transformation in its history,” said Simon Press, managing director international, Fairfest Inc. “Artificial intelligence is changing how travellers discover and book destinations. Consumer expectations continue to evolve new distribution channels are emerging and competition for the American traveller has never been greater. The US outbound and domestic travel market continues to thrive. WTE Miami has been created to give the North American travel industry the practical knowledge and global business connections needed to succeed in this rapidly changing environment.”

At the centre of this year’s event is the theme “Travel Advisor of the Future,” reflecting the evolving role of advisors as technology, traveller expectations and distribution models continue to evolve.

The Travel Advisor of the Future Conference will feature 20 over sessions and more than 100 speakers examining the future of travel distribution, sales, technology and traveller behaviour, outbound travel trends, travel advisor influence, social media, creator-led destination discovery and data-driven tourism marketing.

While attendees of the exhibition can expect to have direct access to buyers, advisors and travel professionals driving more than 9.3 million monthly US outbound departures

WTE Miami’s buyer program will facilitate over 10,000 pre-scheduled and on-the-spot meetings between exhibitors and qualified buyers from across the US travel ecosystem, ranging from independent agencies and home-based travel advisors to partnership teams of host agencies and consortia creating opportunities for new partnerships, market expansion and commercial growth.

The event combines an international exhibition, hosted buyer program, pre-scheduled business appointments, executive conference and networking program, creating a platform where organisations can generate new business, build strategic partnerships and gain practical insights into the future of travel.

World Travel Exhibition (WTE) Miami is a global B2B travel marketplace connecting destinations, tourism organisations, tour operators, airlines, hospitality providers and travel technology companies with the North American travel industry. The event is where America’s travel trade meets the world with the year’s host the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau and Miami International Airport.

For more information, please visit https://wtemiami.com

Feb 10
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JCB Collaborates with Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore

By | 2026, Press Room

Japan’s only international payment brand JCB, announced a new collaboration with Resorts World Sentosa Pte Ltd targeted at Japanese tourists. The partnership with Resorts World Sentosa is designed to enhance the travel experience for Japanese visitors to Singapore.

Singapore’s premier resort island, Resorts World Sentosa is the nation’s leading integrated lifestyle destinations, welcoming millions of local and international visitors annually across its attractions, dining, entertainment and lifestyle offerings. This collaboration aims to curate meaningful experiences that enhance every stage of the visitor journey for Japanese guests.

At the same time, JCB and RWS has launched exclusive privileges for Japan-issued JCB cardmembers visiting Singapore’s leading integrated resort.

Under this collaboration, eligible JCB cardmembers booking online will enjoy up to 20 percent savings on selected attractions, accommodation, dining and retail privileges at participating outlets within the Resorts World Sentosa.

These privileges are designed to enhance every stage of the visit, from iconic attractions to hotel stay, delivering seamless, rewarding experiences for international guests.

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. Its card business was launched in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981.

Its acceptance network includes about 71 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 175 million cardmembers.

 

Oct 20
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Ho Chi Minh City is Asia’s Leading Destination at the World Travel Awards

By | 2025

Once again Ho Chi Minh City was honoured at the World Travel Awards reaffirming, its position, as one of Asia’s leading destinations with four prestigious titles Asia’s Leading Business Travel Destination 2025, Asia’s Leading Festival & Event Destination 2025, Asia’s Leading City Tourist Board 2025, and Asia’s Leading Coastal City Break Destination 2025.

The continuous recognition of Ho Chi Minh City at the “Oscars of the global travel industry” is a powerful testament to the city’s prestige, attractiveness, and sustainable growth potential.

This success reflects not only the city’s ongoing efforts to improve service quality and diversify tourism products, but also highlights its image as a dynamic, modern, and creative metropolis that remains deeply rooted in cultural identity – a unique strength that continues to captivate both domestic and international visitors.

Notably, Vung Tau previously part of Ba Ria, is a province and now under Ho Chi Minh City following recent administrative reorganisation was recognised for the first time as ‘Asia’s Leading Coastal City Break Destination 2025’.

This milestone further enhances, the image of Vietnam’s coastal and island tourism, while expanding the visibility of Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism brand across the region and the world.

Alongside Ho Chi Minh City’s outstanding achievements, Vietnam was also honored with two prestigious titles at the World Travel Awards 2025: Asia’s Leading Destination 2025 for the 7th time and Asia’s Leading Heritage Destination 2025 the 3rd time.

The four prestigious awards not only honour the city’s relentless efforts toward sustainable tourism development, but also mark an important milestone in promoting the ‘Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City’ brand an inviting, friendly, and dynamic destination, confidently moving forward with the global tourism industry’s robust growth.

 

Oct 16
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ITB Asia Enters into Strategic Partnership with Singapore Tourism Board

By | 2025

Messe Berlin Asia Pacific has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Singapore Tourism Board to collaborate in the ITB Asia from 2026 to 2028. The strategic partnership aims to jointly develop new content pillars, co-market the event, enhance buyer engagement initiatives, and facilitate more government participation.

Together, Messe Berlin and STB are committed to strengthening ITB Asia’s position as one Asia’s leading travel trade shows and platform for the global tourism industry.

“This strategic partnership with Messe Berlin reinforces Singapore’s position as the World’s Best MICE City and aligns with our Tourism 2040 goals to cultivate stronger MICE visitor demand and create distinctive experiences,” said Mr. Poh Chi Chuan, Executive Director, Exhibitions and Conferences, Singapore Tourism Board.

ITB Asia organised by Messe Berlin Asia Pacific is supported by the Singapore Exhibition and Convention Bureau. The annual business-to-business trade show and convention features exhibiting companies from the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East, covering leisure market, MICE and corporate travel.

IN 2026, it will be held from October 21 to 23 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

Aug 26
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ITE HCMC 2025 Paves the Way for Sustainable Tourism Growth

By | 2025

The Ho Chi Minh City International Travel Expo will officially take place from September 4 to 6 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center, Tan My Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam. It marks the 19th edition of the show,

This year’s ITE HCMC will focus not only on economic growth, but also on preserving cultural, social, and environmental values. reaffirming Vietnam’s vision for sustainable tourism development. At the same time, the expo encourages the creation of innovative tourism products and services that respond to the evolving expectations of international travellers, particularly those seeking green, sustainable, and experiential journeys.

Ho Chi Minh City is actively working to attract and welcome over 240 international hosted buyers, including travel companies, tour operators, MICE organisers, and travel agencies from more than 32 countries and territories to participate in ITE HCMC 2025.

According to the organising committee, over 250 exhibiting companies and brands and 240 hosted buyers have confirmed their attendance.

While Ho Chi Minh City’s prominence as a bub for investment and business is growing with its recent administrative expansion to include Ba Ria-Vung Tau province and Binh Duong province. Through this extension, the city is developing a strategic tourism triangle of city break, industrial hub and coastal ecotourism – laying the foundation to become a centre for tourism, investment, and innovation in the region.

Currently ITE HCMC is the only tourism expo in Vietnam with an international buyer program and in 2024, was recognised as ‘Asia’s Best Trade Show’ at the World MICE Awards, affirming the position and quality of the event in the international arena.

Aug 05
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New Zealand Books NZ$78.8 million in Conference Business

By | 2025

Tourism New Zealand confirmed 64 international conference wins in the past year, worth an estimated NZ$78.8 million to New Zealand’s visitor economy.

The Tourism New Zealand Business Events team closed out its 2025 financial year hitting record bid targets enabled by a NZ$3 million government funding boost announced in March 2025. It exceeded its stretch target of 110 bids worth NZ$170 million, making 112 bids worth NZ$173 million. The national tourism organisation had previously set a target of 90 bids with a value of NZ$140 million for the 2025 financial year.

In addition to the bid numbers lodged in FY25 there were also 100 resulted bids (win/loss announcements), with 64 wins and 36 losses. The 64 wins have an estimated direct economic impact of NZ$78.8 million.

“What that economic impact figure doesn’t capture is the other benefits hosting these events deliver to New Zealand, from research collaborations to investment opportunities, job creation, profile for New Zealand universities, and knowledge sharing to find solutions to global challenges.” Said Tourism New Zealand global manager business events, Ms. Penelope Ryan

Wins secured in the last year include the WONCA World Rural Health Conference in 2026; Asia-Pacific Intelligent Transport Systems Forum 2027; World Indigenous Cancer Conference 2026; and International Precision Dairy Farming Conference 2025.

“We continue to accelerate momentum thanks to the Government’s additional NZ$3 million in funding for the 2026 financial year,” Ms. Ryan stated. “We’re holding the 110-bid stretch target but aiming to increase the value to NZ$185 million in FY26. We have conference bids in process for 2026 and beyond, with wins confirmed as far ahead as 2030, highlighting the vital role business events activity plays in growing the New Zealand economy now and into the future.”

New Zealand has already secured nine conference wins in the first month of the new financial year. Conference pipelines continue to grow across New Zealand’s three new key city convention centres Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, and the New Zealand International Convention Centre, opening in Auckland in February 2026.

 

Ms. Penelope Ryan, Global Manager Business Events of Tourism New Zealand.

Nov 14
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Exhibition World Bahrain Welcomes the 9th United Nations Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy

By | 2024

The event will make its debut in the Middle East from November 18 to 19 in Bahrain with an anticipated attendance of over 500 visitors and participants from over 50 countries.  It will be held at the Kingdom’s most ultramodern facility the Exhibition World Bahrain.

Under the theme ‘Gastronomy Tourism: a driver of economic diversification and inclusion’, the Forum will convene, through panel discussions, presentations, masterclasses and thematic visits. International experts will explore the transformative potential of Gastronomy Tourism to become a driver of economic diversification and inclusion, fostering social and environmental sustainability enhancing regional cohesion and resilience of local communities.

Bahrain the host country will showcase its culinary heritage and vibrant culture, with the ultimate aim of making it a must-visit destination for gastronomes and tourism professionals alike.

While Exhibition World Bahrain’s offering is a culinary team dedicated to providing bespoke food and beverage services. Operating from a state-of-the-art kitchen facility spanning over 3,600 square meters, the team is well-prepared to meet diverse catering requests.

Attendees can look forward to an impressive range of cuisines, including Asian, Mediterranean, and European flavours from the venue.

Held for the first time in the Middle East, the Forum will bring together global leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and renowned chefs, to unveil how gastronomy tourism can also build a strong image for destinations, through innovative practices and initiatives around the world.