Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre delivers for Trenchless Asia 2023

Trenchless Asia 2023, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) drew 3,000 delegates, 150 exhibitors, and representation from 27 countries. The event achieved significant growth compared to its previous edition in 2018, showcasing the trenchless industry’s advancements.

Westrade Group organised has more than 38 years’ experience promoting TRENCHLESS and NO-DIG shows in countries across the globe. As the organiser of Trenchless Asia 2023, Paul Harwood, its managing director, said: “The Centre’s strategic location is an absolute gem, complemented by its remarkable facilities.

“The convenience of on-site hotels, in the heart of the city, provides an unmatched experience, allowing our exhibitors, visitors and delegates to stay close to their clients. What sets them apart is their unwavering ‘never say no’ attitude, a rare quality that we seldom encounter elsewhere. Our event is undeniably demanding, yet the staff here rise to the occasion, surpassing all expectations. It is a testament to their dedication and commitment to excellence.”

Purpose-Built Space

Due to overwhelming response from exhibitors and delegates, the 2023 edition was scaled up by 50% from its 2018 edition, requiring up to 5,000sqm to accommodate the exhibition. KLCC’s purpose-built exhibition halls with huge loading bay openings and floor loading capacity were able to accommodate all the booths and heavy machinery, leaving enough space for visitors to move around and engage with exhibitors whilst experiencing the exhibits, comfortably.

There were 24 individual conference sessions which showcased the latest innovation and trends in the trenchless industry to educate the industry and local community about the benefits of trenchless technology and its applications in underground infrastructure.

Additionally, the event aimed to position Kuala Lumpur as the Asia hub and headquarters for the trenchless community, fostering continuous growth and engagement with its exhibitors and delegates.

Flexible Approach

The increased freight cost for transporting heavy machinery from different parts of the world proved to be significant hurdle. Rising prices impacted exhibitors’ decisions regarding booth sizes and equipment transportation and booth construction timeline. KLCC collaborated with the organiser and its accredited suppliers to find solutions in ensuring a smooth installation process. The Centre’s flexibility and willingness to accommodate unusual timings as well as providing effective move-in and set-up solutions greatly contributed to the show opening successfully as scheduled, said a KLCC spokesperson.

F&B Solution and Partnership Approach

Trenchless Asia aimed to foster a close-knit community atmosphere throughout the day, and F&B played a crucial role in achieving this goal. The rising costs of catering posed a challenge due to the significant increase in visitor numbers. To address this, the Centre’s team worked with the organisers to manage the provision of the coffee breaks and lunch offered through the venue’s Full Day Meeting Solution Package, and deployed its own manpower to manage the surge in crowd, striking a balance between cost and quality, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all attendees.

Next year’s edition takes place at SMX Convention Center, Manila from 26-27 June.