Business events sector poised to deliver RM34.97 bln impact by 2030, says Tourism Minister

Tiong exploring one of the traditional crafts stall featured during the Malaysia Business Events Week (MBEW) 2026 at the KLCC on Aug 4, 2026.
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By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Aug 4: Malaysia is committed to advancing its Business Events ecosystem as the sector is projected to generate RM34.97 billion in economic impact by 2030, driven by continued growth in conferences, exhibitions, corporate meetings and international gatherings.

Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said the Business Events industry was more than just a platform for meetings and networking, but a strategic economic driver that attracts investment, creates quality employment opportunities, facilitates knowledge exchange, supports local businesses and strengthens Malaysia’s position on the global stage.

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Speaking at the officiating ceremony of Malaysia Business Events Week (MBEW) 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) today, Tiong said the event, themed “Weaving Horizon: Shaping the Tapestry of Tomorrow”, reflected the industry’s role in shaping Malaysia’s future growth.

He congratulated the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) and industry partners for their continuous commitment in developing and strengthening the country’s Business Events ecosystem.

“Since its establishment in 2009, MyCEB has secured more than 3,575 Business Events, welcomed over 4.5 million delegates and generated RM26.7 billion in economic impact.

“As of 30 June 2026, another 416 Business Events have already been secured for the period of 2026 to 2030, with a projected RM8.27 billion in Estimated Economic Impact, bringing the cumulative impact to RM34.97 billion by 2030,” he said.

Tiong said the industry’s strong momentum continued in 2026, with MyCEB spearheading 194 Business Events nationwide in the first six months of the year.

“These events attracted more than 341,000 delegates and contributed RM1.81 billion in Estimated Economic Impact, reflecting the growing confidence of the international Business Events community in Malaysia,” he added.

Beyond the economic figures, Tiong emphasised that Business Events generated wider benefits across various sectors, including hospitality, aviation, transportation, food and beverage, retail, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and local communities.

He said international delegates attending these events also provided an opportunity to showcase Malaysia’s diverse culture, heritage, cuisine and hospitality.

“Every event creates opportunities beyond the convention hall. It supports our hotels, airlines, transport operators, restaurants, retailers, SMEs and local communities while allowing visitors to experience the richness of Malaysia,” he said.

Moving forward, Tiong said Malaysia must continue to innovate, embrace digital transformation, strengthen sustainability initiatives and develop skilled talent to ensure the country remains a preferred destination for world-class Business Events.

He added that the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), together with MyCEB and industry partners, would continue efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a leading Business Events destination in the region and internationally. — DayakDaily

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