Business event exceeds targets by 139 pct

KUCHING: Sarawak’s business events sector has marked a triumphant year, concluding with 95 national and international events, a remarkable 139 per cent beyond its target, generating an estimated RM 346.5 million in economic impact.

From 2024 to 2028, Sarawak anticipates welcoming over 42,000 delegates, expecting to spend RM 188.3 million directly, contributing RM 20.8 million in tax revenue.

The state hosted 107 business events in the past year, a 7 per cent increase from 2022, with an economic impact of RM 372 million. Over 45,000 delegates contributed RM 202.2 million to the economy, and tax revenue reached RM 22.3 million, a significant 62 per cent increase from the previous year.

At the BESarawak Board of Directors Appreciation Dinner recently, Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah highlighted the rise in delegate arrivals and economic impact as a sign of Sarawak’s return to pre-pandemic vibrancy. He stressed the importance of targeting the right business events in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 to positively impact Sarawak.

Meanwhile, BESarawak chairman Datuk Seri Abang Abdul Karim Tun Openg credited the board members, Sarawak Business Events Fund committee, and other stakeholders for their role in driving the industry to new heights.

BESarawak chief executive officer Amelia Roziman attributed these achievements to the ‘Tribe Legacy Sarawak’ campaign, which fosters collaborations for enhanced results and values. She expressed gratitude for the Board of Directors’ support and their role in continually creating opportunities for industry growth in Sarawak.