LAUNCH OF PENANG CONVENTION & EXHIBITION BUREAU’S ANNUAL REPORT 2016

SPEECH BY CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG
AT THE LAUNCH OF PENANG CONVENTION & EXHIBITION BUREAU’S ANNUAL REPORT 2016

Monday, 23 January 2016
Bayview Hotel Georgetown, Penang

In 2016 the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau or PCEB was formed to promote Penang as a preferred destination city for business events. Today we present our first year's annual report.

Although classified as a second-tier destination, Penang is a proven powerhouse. In 2016 alone, the state hosted a total of 1153 events. These events had an estimated economic impact of RM737 million.

Business tourism has been identified as a major component of the National Key Economic Areas (NKEA) for tourism by Pemandu. By 2020, it will contribute an estimated GNI of RM3,947 million, and create a projected 16,720 jobs.

There are three things Penang needs to see the Business Events industry prosper – new events, new products and new experiences. And to achieve it, we need to move with speed,scalability and service.

Penang has much to offer as a destination. Reflecting this unique Penang flavor is PCEB’s brand campaign ‘Experiences Unfiltered’. ‘Experiences Unfiltered’ communicates to the world that Penang provides unique Business Events experiences that are raw, authentic and unfiltered.

We are looking forward to the launch of Setia SPICE Convention Centre in the coming months. This RM750 million landmark project, that will include hotels, also boasts eco-friendly and sustainable practices that will solidify Penang’s position as THE Business Events destination in Malaysia.

Also in the works, is a new RM500 million waterfront convention and exhibition centre by IJM at The Light, scheduled to be completed in 2021.

The success of Business Events in Penang is a success for everyone. Hosting international business events will be a driver for development in the state, with business tourists spending nearly four times more than the ordinary tourists.

We have built capacity in the form of infrastructure and developed transport plans for greater connectivity. We are building capability by building human capital and software for hospitality and professional management.

This annual report is a testament to the state’s determined strategic efforts to position Penang as a dynamic forward-looking city that is the preferred destination city for Business Events. We can reflect on what Penang has achieved in 2016 - in order to go from strength to strength in the future.

I would like to extend my heartiest appreciation to everyone in the Business Events industry. Thank you for lending your support in building a robust industry together with us.

Thank you.