KUCHING: The Sarawak Pavilion, organised by Business Events Sarawak, is set to return to the IMEX Frankfurt trade show in Germany from May 14-16 for its second year, aiming to elevate Sarawak’s global recognition and identity.
Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah highlighted this year’s theme ‘Impact,’ emphasising the gathering of the global business events community to address pressing issues affecting people and the planet.
“Sarawak shares a similar mission and therefore, the Sarawak Pavilion is themed ‘Business Events Support Community Development’, celebrating the industry’s priority on leading social and economic change through business events.
“IMEX Frankfurt has the right audience of business event planners who are prioritising solutions for environmental, social and governance issues.
“Hence, the Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 will be one of three key talking points as it can contribute to their mission,” he said.
He said these during a press conference on the IMEX Frankfurt 2024 at Baitul Makmur II Building, here today (Apr 17).
Outlining the other two talking points, he said the legacy impact of business events in Sarawak will be highlighted, reflecting the state’s status as a leading destination for business event legacies globally.
He said a mini-exhibition on legacy impact will be held together with the launch of Volume 2 Issue 2 of the International Journal of Business Events and Legacies.
Meanwhile, the third talking point, he said, will be led by the Culinary Heritage and Arts Society, the Unesco Creative Cities Network Kuching, and F&B provider, The Bibber’s Tale.
“This year, we showcase the interesting relationship between business events and the creative food and beverage communities.
“Food is a universal language, and visitors will have a special opportunity to learn about who we are through our local dishes and hand-crafted beverages made live at the pavilion,” he said.
Abdul Karim also mentioned the success of last year’s IMEX Frankfurt, drawing over 11,000 visitors, with Sarawak capturing approximately 20 per cent of this audience through its inaugural pavilion.
“Therefore, we shall leverage this year’s potential footfall and our strong relationship with the IMEX Frankfurt team to generate opportunities with international players,” he added.
The Sarawak Pavilion will feature seven partners: Borneo Adventure, Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, Cat City Holidays, Hemisphere Hospitality, Place Borneo, Pullman Miri Waterfront Hotel, and Pullman Kuching Hotel.
Additionally, local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and NGOs will join in showcasing products for global enjoyment and potential investment opportunities.
Also present at the press conference were Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan, permanent secretary Datuk Sherrina Hussaini, and Business Events Sarawak CEO Amelia Roziman.
