Sarawak Convention Bureau has formed a new division to foster stronger partnerships with government and local agencies across Malaysia.
The Government and Industry Relations (GIR) division is aimed at forming a “strong coalition” between the convention bureau, state and federal bodies and partner in the business events industry.
Chew Chang Guan, general manager of the new division, said: “Our broader community has yet to fully understand the value of having business events in Sarawak. This division will pave the way in driving greater working relationships with government bodies, universities, and the public, in servicing this profession.
“Gaining support from the broader community will give Sarawak greater capacity to bring in more business events. This will cascade into greater opportunities and benefit the state as a whole,” Chew said.
The GIR consists of four departments: research headed by Elynnie Dominic; industry development – Dylan Redas Noel; project liaison – Felicia Foo, and government relations by Chew Chang Guan.
The division has launched its first initiative through the Sejiwa Senada 2016 programme, a directive by the Sarawak state’s planning unit to raise awareness of the functions held by each government entity.
“By partaking in the event, we are looking forward to discuss prospects with the government bodies, while educating industry suppliers and creating awareness for the bureau and the business of business events,” Chew added.
Mike Cannon (above), managing director of Sarawak Convention Bureau, said: “We have an outstanding team. They are enthusiastic, passionate, talented individuals – the cream of the crop. With the partnership of state government departments, professional and business groups, this alliance will be an unstoppable force in bringing substantial business events to the state.”
Main picture, from left: Alicia Alias (research assistant), Chew Chang Guan (general manager – Government and Industry Relations), Felicia Foo (project liaison), Dylan Redas Noel (head of industry development), Elynnie Dominic (head of research) and John Unbang (senior researcher).
