THE Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) together with its partners are gearing up to promote MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) events in the Songkhla province, Thailand, to the states in Malaysia.
Speaking at the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Penang, TCEB deputy director Phuriphan Bunmak said Malaysia was one of the biggest tourism markets for Songkhla.
“Malaysia, particularly Penang, stands as a pivotal tourism market crucial to the Thai economy,” he said, adding that TCEB supports and promotes Songkhla as a destination for the MICE industry.
He highlighted the province’s capability and readiness to accommodate various MICE activities.
“TCEB is ready to provide information and support to those wishing to organise MICE events in Songkhla,” he said during the ‘Songkhla MICE City Roadshow’ at Royal Thai Consulate-General in Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman today.
Several key association leaders and tourism industry players were invited to the roadshow. It is learnt that a similar roadshow was also held recently in Ipoh, Perak.
The consul-general of Thailand in Penang Raschada Jiwalai said Songkhla and Hatyai are no strangers to Malaysians.
“We hope to explore collaboration opportunities through this roadshow. We hope this can foster relationships and grow our network,” he said.
Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo commended the event.
“Two months ago, I embarked on a journey to explore Songkhla province, immersing myself in its essence through visits to three distinct locations in southern Thailand.
“The experience left an indelible impression on me. Those who have ventured through southern Thailand will recognise echoes of familiarity when strolling through Penang’s streets.
“Thailand offers destinations that rival Penang, presenting valuable lessons for us to reap. During our journey, we explored Hatyai, delved into its rich historical sites, and engaged with community enterprises.
“The trip illuminated numerous business prospects ripe for Malaysian entrepreneurs to unearth. Today’s roadshow serves as the gateway to this realm of discovery.
“Malaysians should seize the opportunity to delve into what Thailand offers and leverage MICE activities as springboards for venturing into broader markets beyond Malaysia’s borders,” Woo said.
Also present were the honorary consul of Pakistan in Penang Datuk Seri Abdul Rafique Karim, the deputy governor of Songkhla province Amnuay Pinsuwan, Persatuan Peranakan Baba Nyonya Pulau Pinang president Datuk Lillian Tong, Penang Tourist Guides Association president Clement Liang, Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATAP) chairman Datuk Ch’ng Huck Theng, Penang Centre of Medical Tourism (PMED) executive director Dr Mary Ann Harris, and Penang Forward Sports Club chairman Lim Choo Hooi.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud