A masterclass boost for Sabah's business events players

Sabah Tourism Board continues to prepare its event professionals for the international field, launching subsidised Congress Certification Programmes (CCP) targeted at upskilling local business events players, particularly in the digital strategy sphere.

Congress Certification Program (CCP) 1.0 debuted earlier this year from 22-25 February, attended virtually by 25 participants from event and exhibition companies / organisers, destination management companies (DMCs), as well as related travel industry players.

Supported by the Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers (MACEOS), topics covered included risk management, financial management, the bidding process, sponsorship and subvention, as well as meeting and event design, including technology and marketing plans.

Seven months on, CCP 2.0 Advance Masterclass — currently underway from 16 November to 9 December — additionally serves to upgrade certified Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs), and cover the new online world: from digital marketing application, event technology to digital event strategies.

Among the 20 attendees signed up for the four-week virtual course is Michel Mansuet of Place Borneo Sdn Bhd, whose goal is to "conduct a world class (or beyond) business events in the near future".

Tricia Melisa Mojulat of Do.It Management Incorporation is looking forward to the "experience sharing among participants," and prepare "for future business events as well as elevate my annual conferences to reach international levels. After this programme, I believe we are more prepared to hold bigger events that meets international standards".

Meanwhile, new players entering the business events field have the option of attending round two of the Congress Certification Program (CCP) 1.0, running from 7-10 December. Industry professionals in the events management, MICE, DMCs, government agencies and lecturers are also welcome to join, or email the BE Team at [email protected].

Noredah Othman, CEO of Sabah Tourism Board said, "This past year, Sabah Tourism Board provided financial assistance in attempts to sustain BE from physical events to then including hybrid events.

“We are glad to be able to work together again with MACEOS for CCP 2.0 and the second round of CCP 1.0, as this is part of our initiatives to support the development of human capital for the state’s business events industry," adding that Sabah will be bidding for the 20th World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations Convention next.