Sabah targets business events market

By WU VUIDE


SINGAPORE: The Sabah Convention Bureau (SCB) is striving to position Sabah as a competitive business events destination through its third consecutive participation at The Meetings Show Asia Pacific Singapore (TMS APAC) 2026, held on April 14-15.
As one of the region’s leading trade shows for the meetings, incentives conferences and exhibitions (MICE) and business events industry, TMS APAC provides a key platform for destinations to connect with international buyers and industry leaders.
SCB’s presence highlights its continued efforts to expand Sabah’s global reach and attract high-value business events.
At Sabah Pavilion, SCB and its partners engaged in a series of business meetings and networking sessions, showcasing Sabah’s diverse offerings—from world-class venues and hospitality to its rich culture and natural landscapes.
The pavilion recorded more than 130 pre-scheduled appointments, excluding additional walk-in engagements, reflecting strong interest from international buyers and industry stakeholders.
Joining SCB at TMS APAC are key industry partners representing Sabah’s growing business events ecosystem, including Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), Hilton Kota Kinabalu, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, Sheraton Kota Kinabalu, Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu & Discovery Tour Sabah Sdn Bhd.
As of 2025, SCB has supported more than 90 business events, generating an estimated RM118.3 million in economic impact for Sabah.
The achievement reflects growing confidence among international event organisers in Sabah as a high-value destination that delivers both impactful experiences and measurable outcomes.
SCB commitment and participation in TMC APAC is with the objective of attracting high-impact events that contribute to economic growth and long-term development of the state,” said its chief executive officer Noredah Othman.
Looking ahead, she said SCB aims to secure and support more international events that will drive positive trade, investment, job creations, and talent development—further positioning Sabah as an emerging hub for business events in the region.

Noredah (third, left), with participants from Sabah.