By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Business events have contributed significantly to the state’s economy, said Datuk Rosmawati Lasuki.
She said an estimated RM1.23 million was generated from the Business Events Forum – BE in Sabah 2025 – held from February 27 to 28.
Of this, RM535,000 came from delegate spending, while local authorities secured RM32,112 in tax revenue, said the Chief Executive Officer of the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
Speaking at the BE in Sabah insights presentation cum Hari Raya celebration held at SICC, she said the forum also highlighted Sabah’s strategic value in the region by enhancing its visibility.
Key stakeholders and association planners have reinforced Sabah’s position as a rising business events destination in the Asia Pacific, she added.
Strong backing from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Sabah Convention Bureau, Sabah Tourism Board, and Sri Pelancongan Sabah played a pivotal role in elevating the scale and impact of this year’s event, she said.
Rosmawati said the forum welcomed a record-breaking 747 delegates — 586 local and 161 international participants from 28 countries.
The event featured dynamic keynote addresses from ICCA representatives and regional leaders, with over 50 curated B2B meetings.
International speakers from Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, and South Korea provided a broad spectrum of insights, case studies, and forward-thinking strategies tailored to the Asia Pacific region.
“This year’s forum was more than just a gathering — it was a convergence of ideas, energy, and opportunity.
“With continued support from our partners and the State Government, we are confident Sabah will remain on the global map as a preferred destination for impactful business events,” she said.
