Growing with the company I founded in 1984, I have witnessed the rise of new innovations and creative tools that have continuously shaped and challenged our business journey. These same forces continue to drive our evolution, pushing us toward new heights of creativity, excellence, and service delivery. As the leader of the company, I remain deeply committed to offering integrated business event solutions and creative services, while always exploring new frontiers of idea and opportunity.
Quality, innovation, and excellence have long been the hallmarks of our company. As its leader, I have worked diligently to embody these values, enabling me to adapt, innovate, and manage change effectively. Throughout the years, I have invested in my personal and professional growth – pursuing new knowledge and acquiring the skills needed to serve both my clients and my company more effectively, and to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the industry.
In January 2016, I came across an email from the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) about the Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) program. How I wish I had known about this form of professional education earlier in my career – it could have significantly shaped my journey. Nevertheless, without hesitation, I enrolled in the CEM course, which was conducted in Bangkok, Thailand. I made two trips, flying from Kuching – on the eastern side of Malaysia – across the South China Sea to Kuala Lumpur, then onward to Bangkok.
It was a journey well worth the time, effort, and investment. I never imagined that earning the CEM certification would ignite a deeper passion for lifelong learning. It sparked a pursuit I once only dreamed of.
A year later, I enrolled in the Master in International Hospitality Management (MIHM) program, followed by the Certified Event Designer (CED) credential in 2019 at San Diego State University. In 2021, I earned both the Certified Incentive Specialist (CIS) and the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designations.
I remain forever grateful to the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau for extending this educational opportunity to industry players beyond Thailand. TCEB’s commitment to positioning itself as the MICE education hub of ASEAN is not only visionary – it’s a noble effort worthy of high praise. Without the CEM certification, I would not have had the confidence or drive to return to education later in life.
Since then, I have actively encouraged industry peers in Malaysia to pursue this exceptional certification. In 2020, together with like-minded colleagues, we founded the Sarawak Business Events Association (SBE). Officially registered on 13 April 2021, SBE was established to provide a platform for sharing knowledge, promoting ethical conduct, and upholding high standards of professionalism in business events.
SBE is dedicated to advancing the industry and fostering collaboration, innovation, and best practices. It marks a significant milestone in my journey – a rewarding endeavor with the hope that Sarawak’s industry will be well-positioned to meet the growing regional demand. A recent study by SITE and Oxford Economics revealed that the Asia-Pacific region is the most optimistic in anticipating increased travel activity over the next two years.
Building a strong value chain in a developing market, supported by an ecosystem that drives growth, is crucial for business success. Empowering industry players with knowledge, competencies, and regional networks will contribute immensely to our state’s economy and the success of the business events sector.
Organizations that invest in their people – encouraging upskilling and professional growth – create opportunities for talent to thrive. Without such support, many hardworking and ambitious individuals may never realize their potential in this industry, and their dreams would remain just that – dreams.
Knowledge and skill drive competence. Competence, combined with compassion, steers excellence and sustainability. In a world increasingly shaped by uncertainty, disruption, and technological change, what we truly need are leaders – and to become leaders ourselves – guided by empathy and purpose. No ideology or machine can replace the power of compassionate leadership.
My journey continues. Earning the Emeritus CEM designation is both a personal milestone and a means to give back. Through the CEM Club in Malaysia, I hope to share my experiences and insights, learning alongside others to uplift the industry we care so deeply about.
