The Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) hosted its first business events seminars in Central Asia, holding programs in Almaty, Kazakhstan on June 2 and Tashkent, Uzbekistan on June 4, 2026 [1, 2]. The events aimed to position Malaysia as a leading business events destination in Asia and a gateway for international business events in Southeast Asia [1, 2].
Supported by Tourism Malaysia Almaty and the Malaysian Embassy in Uzbekistan, the seminars brought together representatives from tourism, the corporate sector, event organizers, and the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan [1, 2]. These engagements sought to strengthen ties and create collaboration opportunities between Malaysia and Central Asian markets.
MyCEB CEO Tan Mei Phing said Central Asia is a promising growth market for Malaysia’s business events sector. She noted the inaugural seminars aim to deepen industry connections and establish Malaysia as the preferred gateway for international business events in Southeast Asia [1].
The seminars highlighted Malaysia’s competitive advantages, including world-class infrastructure, extensive international connectivity, a modern hospitality sector, strong government support, and a competitive value proposition [1, 2]. Edward Lim Chee Chong, MyCEB senior manager of Business Development, emphasized Malaysia’s robust infrastructure and connectivity as key competitive strengths for hosting business events of all scales [2].
Tourism Malaysia Almaty Office director Nor Shazly Azmi noted Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan’s growing status as emerging markets for Malaysia. He highlighted improved air connectivity and expanding flight options that have enhanced accessibility for business and leisure travelers between Central Asia and Malaysia [1, 2].
Malaysia also offers a diverse portfolio of travel options, including luxury, family, leisure, business, and growing bleisure (business and leisure) travel opportunities, broadening its appeal to visitors from Central Asia [2].
The seminars mark a strategic push by MyCEB to engage new markets in Central Asia and promote Malaysia as a hub for business events in the region. Further activities to build on these relationships are expected as Malaysia continues to position itself in the competitive Asian MICE industry [1].
