PCEB and MAG sign MoU to strengthen Penang's position as a well-connected MICE destination. Photo Credit: PCEB
Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and Malaysia
Aviation Group (MAG) signed an MoU to facilitate connectivity to Penang,
building its position as Malaysia’s second international hub.
The MoU was inked by the Chief Executive Officer of PCEB, Ashwin
Gunasekeran, and Global Head of Sales for Malaysia Airlines, Roslan
Ismail, and witnessed by the Chief Minister of Penang, Chow Kon Yeow,
and Group Chief Executive Officer of MAG, Captain Izham Ismail.
With more direct flights to Penang, and value add services to
business events organisers such as special airfares, this alliance will
help to boost Penang’s economy and appeal as a MICE destination,
according to Chief Minister Chow.
MAG provides valuable leverage via Malaysia Airlines and Firefly in
expanding Penang’s air connections. Its presence in trade fairs and road
shows, together with PCEB, will build a strong brand presence for the
strategic collaboration.
Said MAG’s Captain Izham, “MAG will be offering exclusive incentive
packages, where BE organisers and delegates will gain access to savings
on activities across our airlines and non-airlines businesses."
PCEB CEO Ashwin Gunasekeran updated there are 28 hybrid conferences
in Penang’s pipeline of events in 2022, as well as 11 for in 2023. He
also emphasised the significance of the BElong in Penang campaign, which
aims to instill hope and excitement in the Penang business events
industry.
The campaign lays the groundwork for the state to continue supporting
hybrid domestic events in the lead-up to the reopening of international
borders and the return of international clients and events.