Sabah is poised to advance to the next phase of its development as a leading regional business events (BE) hub in 2026.
Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) Chief Executive Officer Datuk Dr Hajah Rosmawati Lasuki J.P announced that the third edition of BE in Sabah will take place from 4–5 February 2026 under the new theme, “Global Collaboration Through Business Events.” The event is jointly organised by SICC and the MACEOS Sabah Chapter.
According to Dr Rosmawati, “The 2026 edition will mark a turning point, not just a forum but a full-scale live demonstration of the strength and potential of global business events.”
She added that “BE in Sabah 2026 will bring together decision makers, organisers and associations from around the world, not just to connect but to experience the global business events ecosystem in motion,” during a briefing to Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew on Monday.
Dr Rosmawati emphasised that Sabah continues to deliver a seamless, professional business events experience through its trusted supply chain, world-class venues, efficient logistics, and rich cultural heritage. These strengths position Sabah as a destination “where the world meets and where business events move forward together.”
Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew acknowledged the progress achieved, noting that consistent support from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS), alongside international bodies such as the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and local partners including the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau and the Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers, has strengthened BE in Sabah since its inception in 2024.
She highlighted that “More importantly, aggressive international marketing efforts by Dr Rosmawati and her team have significantly raised the visibility of Sabah on the global business events map. Sabah’s participation in the ICCA Congress 2024 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, has borne fruit.”
Dr Rosmawati expressed appreciation for the continued support from KePKAS and the Chief Minister’s Office, adding, “From high-level dialogues to impactful connections, BE in Sabah is now drawing attention as a serious platform for international business collaboration.”
During the briefing, she reported that 161 international delegates representing 29 countries attended the 2025 edition of BE in Sabah, themed “Empowering Asia Pacific Through Business Events.” The two-day forum highlighted global insights, sustainability practices, and strategic partnerships shaping the industry.
She also shared key performance outcomes:
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Direct delegate expenditure reached RM899,364, rising from RM588,800 in 2024.
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Total economic impact grew from RM1.38 million (2024) to RM2.1 million (2025).
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Tax revenue increased from RM35,328 (2024) to RM53,961 (2025).
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Jobs supported rose from 100 to 120, signalling broader economic benefits for Sabah’s tourism, hospitality, and service sectors.
Also present at the briefing were the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai, SICC Director of Finance Catherina Wee, Assistant Director of Corporate Communications Clara Lim, and Assistant Manager of Corporate Communications Rachel Hee.