Malaysia Hosts Second Asia Convention Alliance Association Forum (ACAAF), Spotlighting Sustainability and Innovation

The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre recently became the focal point of the business events industry as Malaysia hosted the second Asia Convention Alliance Association Forum (ACAAF). This distinguished event, which was a central feature of Malaysia Business Events Week (MBEW), served as a hub for dynamic discussions and pioneering innovations.

Held under the theme “Business Events and Technology with Sustainability,” ACAAF 2024 brought together 100 influential delegates from across Asia. The forum provided a platform for exploring sustainable innovations, acting as a catalyst for transformative ideas and collaborative breakthroughs in the industry.

The forum featured an esteemed roster of VIPs and industry leaders from ACA member countries, including the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Thailand Incentive & Convention Association (TICA), Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), and Seoul Tourism Organization (STO). Highlighting the event were Expert Talk sessions, where STO, TAITRA, and TCEB presented on how technology can enhance meeting experiences at the intersection of sustainability. Chris S. Na, CEO of Chris & Partners, shared insights on integrating technology and sustainability in the APAC region; Chin-Kun Wang, Distinguished Professor & Former President of Chung Shan Medical University, addressed the role of business events in advancing sustainable practices; and Prof. (Emeritus) Pavinee Chinachoti, Chair of the Food Innovation and Regulation Network (FIRN), discussed innovative approaches to sustainable gastronomy through local sourcing.

The Intersection of Sustainability and MX (Meeting Experience): How Technology Drives MX Enhancement

Embracing technology in the MICE industry elevates the meeting experience and advances sustainability. Just as the automotive and finance industries have shifted from focusing on providers to prioritising consumer experience, the MICE industry must also adapt its perspective. Much like the Industrial Revolution followed the abolition of slavery, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the transition to connected and hybrid events, driving innovation. By integrating technology, we can achieve economic sustainability, enhance participant satisfaction, and build lasting brand loyalty, paving the way for a more innovative future in the MICE sector.

Chris S. Na

CEO of Chris & Partners

Business Events and Technology with Sustainability in the APAC Region

Technology and sustainable practices are transforming business events in the Asia Pacific region. By embracing innovations like smart energy management and green building design, we can create more sustainable and economically viable events. However, this shift requires careful planning, budgeting, and support from both the private and government sectors to ensure a balanced and responsible approach to sustainability.

David Chiang

Co-Head Asia Pacific, World Forum Offshore Wind (WFO)

Innovative Approaches to Sustainable Gastronomy: Local Sourcing as a Catalyst for Change

As we embrace innovative approaches to sustainable gastronomy, it’s clear that food security is not just about availability, but ensuring that food is safe, nutritious, and affordable for everyone. The challenge now is to innovate our food systems to combat global issues like climate change, and to ensure that every bite we take contributes to a healthier, more sustainable future.

Prof. (Emeritus) Pavinee Chinachoti

Chair of Food Innovation and Regulation Network (FIRN)

ACAAF 2024 established a new standard in the business events sector by fostering a sustainable network that connected ACA with key convention stakeholders. The event underscored the importance of innovative sustainability practices, with the goal of transforming the environmental impact of the industry.

Following the success of the inaugural forum in Thailand, hosted by TCEB and TICA, Malaysia continued to champion this initiative. “We are thrilled to host ACAAF 2024 in Malaysia,” said Mohammad Isa Abdul Halim, Director, Meeting & Support Incentives of MyCEB. “This forum represents a collective journey to exchange best practices and share inspiring success stories, aimed at creating a profound and lasting impact on Asia’s convention landscape through sustainability and technology.”

As an annual event rotating among ACA’s founding members, ACAAF has become a vital platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, forge new partnerships, and explore cutting-edge innovations. The forum began with TCEB and TICA in 2023, was hosted by MyCEB in 2024, and will continue with STO in 2025 and TAITRA in 2026.

ACAAF 2024 is poised to deliver significant benefits to Malaysia’s business events industry by fostering collaboration and innovation, further cementing the nation’s reputation as a leading business events destination in Asia.

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