Business Events are Crucial in Driving Economic Growth

27 February 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah state government, through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Environment, will continue to prioritise business events, recognising their vital role in driving economic growth and fostering collaboration across the Asia-Pacific region.

The Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, stated that with the increasing influence of this sector in trade, investment, and knowledge sharing, there is strong support for initiatives that strengthen the regional business events ecosystem.

“As the Asia-Pacific continues to evolve as a global hub for innovation and industrial development, platforms such as Business Events (BE) in Sabah 2025 play a crucial role in shaping its future,” he said during the opening ceremony of the 2nd International Business Events Forum – BE in Sabah 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre today.

His speech was delivered by the Deputy Chief Minister I/Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.

“Conferences, trade exhibitions, and incentive programmes are no longer merely platforms for networking. They are catalysts for economic transformation, knowledge sharing, and strategic collaboration.

“It is in this landscape that BE in Sabah 2025 emerges, reinforcing our collective vision to empower the Asia-Pacific through business events.

“Business events not only strengthen connections but also propel industries forward. They create a platform for investment dialogue, facilitate the entry of multinational companies, and stimulate growth in emerging sectors.

“The economic impact extends beyond the event halls – it strengthens supply chains, enhances workforce capabilities, and accelerates industrial advancement,” he added.

The Chief Minister also noted that the attendance of around 800 delegates from over 30 countries, representing various trades and industries at the conference, is evidence of the increasing significance of BE in Sabah 2025 as a key platform for regional and global engagement in the business events industry.

“Sabah welcomes the presence and participation of experts and industry leaders. Your strategic insights will not only enhance best practices in the industry but also create opportunities for Sabah to interact with international markets, forge new alliances, foster collaborations, and elevate Sabah's standing in the global business events sector.

“I am confident that this network will present significant opportunities for participants to learn and share experiences,” he concluded.