Nice for MICE: Sabah Convention Bureau to take off by year’s end

KOTA KINABALU: A Sabah Convention Bureau will be launched by the end of the year to promote the state as a preferred destination for MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) events, says Datuk Christina Liew.

The state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said the bureau will be placed under her ministry.

“We welcome any form of collaborative effort for any MICE event for the common good of the state.

“My ministry will be happy to render support, provided that (a) proposed project is eligible for assistance,” she said here on Monday (Oct 16) after the installation of the 15th Sabah Women Entrepreneurs and Professionals Association (Swepa) committee.

Newly-elected Swepa president Karen Wong had requested the ministry’s support for the International Women CEO Summit 2024 to be held in Sabah.

Liew said hosting the summit here fit in well with the objective of promoting Sabah as a MICE destination.

Wong said women leaders from Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore, and possibly the United States, will gather for the summit.

“This summit aligns with our objective of sharing knowledge in the (field of) women’s leadership and empowerment with our local entrepreneurs and professionals.

“The event will see discussions on pertinent topics such as women’s needs, aspirations and overall well-being,” Wong added.