AHEAD of its official opening in October this year, the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC) has secured a strategic partnership with South Korea’s convention centre specialist to boost the state’s Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.
The collaboration between IJM Perennial, KINTEX Malaysia, and the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) positions PWCC as Penang’s leading convention venue even before its doors open.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who witnessed the signing ceremony, applauded the growing friendship between Penang and South Korea, not only culturally but also strategically.
“These new partnerships between IJM Perennial and KINTEX, and between PCEB and KINTEX, mark an exciting leap in hosting bigger conventions, and increasing international exposure for Penang.
“Last year had been a thrilling year for Penang’s business events sector, with the state hosting over 2,000 business events, attracting more than 300,000 delegates, and generating an estimated RM1.29 billion in economic impact,” Chow said in his speech.
Looking ahead, Chow said he has been informed that several major events have been lined up for PWCC, including the 7th Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development, Malaysia International Tech Edu, K-Brand Week featuring the K-Beauty Expo Malaysia, and Water Tech Asia.
“PWCC is not just another venue; it’s about the centre of attention in the region. All these developments align perfectly with our Penang2030 vision,” he said.
Chow highlighted the significant value of bringing business events to the state to boost the state’s tourism.
Goyang Special City mayor Lee Dong-hwan expressed optimism about the collaboration.
“We are ready to share our insights in order to boost the MICE outlook here,” he said.
IJM Perennial Development Sdn Bhd director Datuk Tony Ling said PWCC is set to attract over 30,000 delegates in its inaugural year, which will, in turn, spur Penang’s economy and future growth.
Among those present were state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan, PCEB chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran, and KINTEX chief executive officer Lee Jae-yul.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud