By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: The BE in Sabah forum has evolved from an initial local initiative into a recurring regional platform shaped by continuity, learning and trust.
Organising chairperson Datuk Dr Rosmawati Lasuki said this year’s programme features 33 speakers from 18 countries and territories, representing a broad cross-section of the global business events ecosystem.
These include international associations, convention bureaux, destination organisations, consulting and advisory firms, media and market intelligence organisations, as well as venue and hospitality operators.
She said this at the launch of the Third International Business Events Forum (BE in Sabah) 2026 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
She said many of the speakers are active contributors to major international platforms such as IMEX, AIME, the ICCA Congress and The Meetings Show, bringing current global insights and market experience into a regional Asia-Pacific context.
Over two days, the forum will examine strategic issues shaping the business events industry, including business events as enablers of trade, investment and market confidence; regional and cross-border collaboration in the Asia-Pacific; leadership, governance and industry resilience; artificial intelligence, innovation and data-led strategies; and talent development, professional standards and future readiness.
The opening keynote was delivered by Dr Senthil Gopinath, chief executive officer of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), who shared global perspectives on industry performance, emerging risks, and the importance of collaboration and standards in sustaining long-term growth.
Beyond dialogue, BE in Sabah 2026 incorporates structured pathways for collaboration, including the exchange of memoranda of understanding involving SICC and international and local partners.
These collaborations focus on knowledge exchange, capacity building and destination development, and are intended to continue through sustained engagement beyond the forum.
Jointly organised by the Sabah International Convention Centre and the Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (MACEOS) Sabah Chapter, BE in Sabah 2026 is supported by national and regional partners committed to advancing professional standards and long-term industry development across the Asia-Pacific business events ecosystem.
The event will focus on reinforcing the forum’s role as a regional working platform supporting meaningful collaboration, practical outcomes and sustained industry relevance.
Joniston (fourth right), Rosmawati (fourth left), Dr Senthil (third left), and the speakers after the presentation of mementoes.
