micenet ASIA Feb-Mar 2014

February-March 2014

Seal the deal with a good site inspection

Dreamtime 2013: A showcase of the best from Down Under 100% carbon-neutral efforts at Marina Bay Sands event

American Express Meetings and Events offers unparalleled global access to consultative experts from around the world.

Through our global network, we leverage unique intra market capabilities to share and receive local market knowledge, expertise and resources, specializing in the design and implementation of meetings, events, activities, transportation and programme logistics across every destination, including Asia.

For specialist advice on Destinations or for more information on how we can help you achieve your objectives, please contact Stephanie.Ong@aexp.com

americanexpress.com.sg/meetingsandevents AMERICAN EXPRESS TRAVEL (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD. with a place of business at 60, ALEXANDRA TERRACE, #08-06,THE COMTECH (LOBBY B), SINGAPORE 118502 Registration No.: 199300971E; Travel Agents License No.: TA 00018

D EL IVERI N G YO U R EV E RY M E E T I N G N E E D

At Millennium & Copthorne International Limited, we take pride in meeting and exceeding the needs of our business and leisure travellers. With a full range of business support equipment, wireless connectivity, state-of-the-art facilities, a dedicated events team and awards-winning restaurants, we are the unparalleled choice for your next meeting or convention.

ASIA EUROPE MIDDLE EAST

Visit us at www.millenniumhotels.com.sg NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL RESERVATIONS NUMBERS Australia China, North China, South Hong Kong SAR Indonesia

1 800 124 420 10 800 650 0558 10 800 265 2531 800 962 541 001 803 656 541

Malaysia New Zealand Singapore Taiwan Thailand

1 800 801 063 0800 808 228 +65 6735 7575 008 01 651 505 001 800 656 544

NORTH AMERICA

More than 100 hotels worldwide

Back to school Buyers want to learn, and they aren’t getting the training they need. That’s the impression I got when I was in Sydney last December for Dreamtime (Read our Dreamtime cover story on Page 10). As part of the event’s educational component, I had the chance to spend time with some 50 buyers from Southeast Asia and China. Many of these buyers are veterans, having spent years of running events and incentive travel programmes abroad. They are looking for programmes that allow them to hone skills in event management, or acquire some knowledge on how to better handle risk.

And many of them aren’t getting it.

Some convention bureaus and associations in Asia have started initiatives to ensure MICE players in their respective markets get the education and accreditation they need. This training, still overlooked in this part of the world, is believed to be the key to proper standards to root out unethical practices such as cost undercutting and the lack of transparency. While still in infancy stages, such programmes are what the MICE industry in this booming region urgently needs to go the distance.

In this edition, we look at how site inspections can make or break a deal

(Page 20). Depending on the number of events, many buyers go on countless site inspections a year before selecting a venue that best suits the event’s needs and audience. How a venue sales professional conducts a site inspection, or the amount of event details a buyer can provide - are just some factors that will determine an event venue contract.

We also examine Marina Bay Sands’ 100-per-cent carbon-neutral efforts at a recent conference (Page 32), proving MICE is able to go fully green and give back to the environment.

Enjoy the issue.

Kristie Thong Editor/Associate Publisher

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD • Damion Breust, Barclays • Andrew Chan, ACI HR Solutions • Selina Chavry, Pacific World • Daniel Chua, AONIA

2

micenet Asia

• Ho Yoke Ping, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau • Danielle Puceta, American Express Business Travel • Sumate Sudasna, Thailand Incentive and Convention Association • Janet Tan-Collis, SACEOS

CONTENTS

news & events

departments

UP-TO-DATE

UPCLOSE

06 BUREAU BRIEFS 08 NEWS 14 GLOBAL WATCH

Athens: Wrestling crisis, mothering invention 20 EDUCATION

Conduct site inspections the right way 54 VENUE UPDATE 57 PEOPLE

16 ASSOCIATIONS

• SACEOS: Why we exist 18 Q&A

• Singapore Experience Awards 2013

• The Star 50 WE ARE Y: Art of responsibility

case studies 12 MELBOURNE Dreamtime Dinner 30 BALI APEC CEO Summit 2013 32 SINGAPORE Responsible Business Forum 2013

MICE MATTERS 48 TECHNOLOGY

Is digital marketing enough?

52 OPINION On social media 53 CAREER STRATEGIES On shorter employment tenures

Cover image: Our front cover features the Sydney Opera House and highlights of Dreamtime 2013. Read our Dreamtime 2013 cover story on pages 10-11.

The contents of micenet Asia which are covered by copyright may not be reproduced or copied without the written permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in articles are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. micenet Asia does not accept responsibility for damage to, or loss of, unsolicited material submitted for publication. The content and accuracy of advertisements accepted are the responsibility of the advertiser. All prices and conditions quoted in micenet Asia are based on the latest information received. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any inconvenience or expense resulting from a subsequent alteration to prices or conditions.

4

micenet Asia

February-March 2014

destinations

group PUBLISHER / MANAGING DIRECTOR Helen Batt-Rawden Email: helen@btp.net.au MANAGING EDITOR Brad Foster Email: brad@btp.net.au EDITOR / ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Kristie Thong Email: kristie@micenet.asia DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Jenn Ruffell Email: jenn@btp.net.au Joanna Morrison Email: joanna@mojo.net.nz

REGION FOCUS 10 COVER STORY: Australia raises MICE standards at Dreamtime 2013 24 BALI: Over here and over supplied 34 SINGAPORE: Meet and eat SOUTH KOREA 36 Seoul’s triple jump ambitions 39 Food for thought 41 MACAU: In 48 hours 42 AUSTRALIA: Brisbane gears up for G20

TRENDING 44 BEYOND THE BALLROOM

contributors • Andrew Chan • Samantha Coomber • Robert Cotter • Ray Shaw • Gina Sin CHINESE TRANSLATOR KH Tok SALES & MARKETING Singapore office: Michelle Lim Email: michelle@micenet.asia Amy Sim Email: amy@micenet.asia Gina Sin Email: gina@micenet.asia Sales enquiries: info@micenet.asia Australia Office: Helen Batt-Rawden Email: helen@btp.net.au Jenny Gill Email: jenny@btp.net.au Alison Widders Email: alison@btp.net.au Sales enquiries: info@btp.net.au INTERNATIONAL MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES China: Mary Yao Email: mary@mhichina.com Tel: +86 10 6551 8656 ext 8253 Thailand: Sirima Eamtako Email: sirima.micenet@gmail.com ADMINISTRATION & SALES SUPPORT Gina Sin Email: gina@micenet.asia Charline Wong Email: charline@micenet.asia Subscription Email: info@micenet.asia

micenet ASIA is a proud member of:

visit us online for regular updates throughout the month:

www.micenet.asia

September 2013 CAB Member

13,000

micenet Asia is published by Business & Tourism Publishing Asia Pte Ltd 35 Selegie Road, #09-04, Parklane Shopping Mall, Singapore 188307 Tel: +65 6337 8781 Fax: +65 6337 9060 Email: info@micenet.asia Website: www.micenet.asia Privacy Policy: Business & Tourism Publishing are committed to managing your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act. For a copy of our Privacy Policy, please go to www.mice.net.au ‘privacy policy’.

Printed in Singapore by Sun Rise Printing & Supplies Pte Ltd. Reg no. 199002858D PPS 1785/04/2013 (022963)

MCI (P) 129/02/2013

bureau briefs Sydney scores Pro-Health China Annual Conference 2014

Australia – Business Events Sydney (BESydney) has won the bid for a 4500pax incentive group from China. The fiveday Pro-Health China Annual Conference is estimated to deliver an economic impact of AUD$22.5 million (US$20 million) to New South Wales.

Pro-Health China president, Jason Li, said Sydney’s many attractions will give the distributors a unique travel experience. “Our delegates will be eager to learn the attractions, culture, and everything there is to experience in this metropolitan city.”

This win follows a steady flow of Asian corporate business events that BESydney has secured, as well as the successful 3000-pax Perfect China Leadership Seminar 2013 in July worth close to $21 million.

“We know that Asia is a relationshipdriven market and the long-term strategies we’ve invested in, including being the first Australian bureau to establish an in-market presence in Asia (2004), have enabled us to build networks and trust, and convert business for Sydney,” said Lyn LewisSmith, CEO of BESydney.

Japan targets Indonesian incentives market Indonesia – Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) will be opening a representative office in Jakarta, following a 35 per cent increase in Indonesian visitors to Japan since January 2013 year-on-year. Having hosted a 3000pax Indonesian incentive group in Tokyo last March, the new office is expected to create more opportunities to attract incentive groups from the market.

Additionally, Garuda Indonesia has begun offering flights between Osaka and Jakarta since November 2013. On top of daily flights to Narita Airport, the new route from Jakarta serves Kansai International Airport in Osaka with four flights a week. Garuda also flies to Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International Airports from Bali.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Singapore scores ageing, rehab conferences Singapore – Singapore has been selected as the host destination for a number of conferences in the area of ageing and rehabilitation, slated to be held over the next four years.

The Singapore Physiotherapy Association will be holding the Singapore International Physiotherapy Conference this year in conjunction with its 50th anniversary. In the following year, Singapore will be the first country in Southeast Asia to host the World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT) Congress, which is expected to attract more than 4000 physiotherapists from its members worldwide.

WCPT director of professional policy, Tracy Bury, said Singapore was

6

micenet Asia

selected due to its accessibility and its support of the Singapore Physiotherapy Association. “The Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre provides a flexible and modern space large enough to host the event,” she added.

Singapore Tourism Board’s executive director for exhibitions &

conferences and conventions & meetings, Jeannie Lim, believed Singapore’s strength as an ideal meetings destination goes beyond the city’s meeting infrastructure.

“Our local associations play a strong role in determining the strength of our bid to host important and mega events. This is especially so in an industry such as healthcare, which Singapore is strong in.”

Other upcoming events related to ageing and rehab include: Singapore Rehabilitation Conference; 5th Ageing Asia Investment Forum; Singapore International Physiotherapy Conference; RehabTech; World Congress on Low Back & Pelvic Pain 2016; and Asia Pacific Hospice Conference 2017. m

to

e d 14 nd 2 0 te ne Ex 30 Ju

for 2014

by 30 June 2014. Applicable for arrivals in 2014 only.

* Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.myceb.com.my/promotions for details.

For more information, please contact:

Suite 22.3, Level 22, Menara IMC, No. 8 Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Tel : +603 2034 2090 Fax : +603 2034 2091 Email: sales@myceb.com.my Web: www.myceb.com.my

Participating hotels & resorts:

• Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral • Berjaya Times Square Hotel Kuala Lumpur • Best Western Premier Dua Sentral • Double Tree by Hilton • Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur • Hilton Kuala Lumpur Hotel • Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur • J.W.Marriott Kuala Lumpur • Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur • Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur • Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel • Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur • Sunway Putra Hotel Kuala Lumpur • The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur • The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur • The Westin Kuala Lumpur • Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur PETALING JAYA • Hilton Petaling Jaya Hotel PUTRAJAYA • Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside KUALA LUMPUR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT • Sama-Sama Hotel PENANG • Four Points by Sheraton Penang • G Hotel Penang • Holiday Inn Resort Penang • Parkroyal Penang Resort • Eastern & Oriental Hotel • Lone Pine Hotel LANGKAWI • Berjaya Langkawi Resort • The Andaman Langkawi • The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa KUCHING • Hilton Kuching Hotel KOTA KINABALU • Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu • Sutera Harbour Resort SANDAKAN • Four Points by Sheraton Sandakan TIOMAN • Berjaya Tioman Resort PORT DICKSON • Grand Lexis Port Dickson • Lexis Port Dickson KUALA LUMPUR

news Face-to-face meetings needed for business Global – Businesses around the world could be missing out on additional revenue due to the lack of face-to-face contact, a Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts global research report revealed.

The “Business Meetings in a Modern World” report surveyed more than 2000 business professionals across five markets – the UK, US, UAE, China, and India – to understand how virtual and face-to-face meetings were used, and the possible economic impact.

Close to half of respondents believed they had lost a contract or client because they did not have enough face-to-face meetings, resulting in an estimated yearly revenue loss of 24 per cent. 81 per cent of business professionals polled also stated that face-to-face meetings are better for building long-term trust and strong client relationships.

However, the value of face-to-face meetings is evidently overlooked in favour of cost and time-saving technologies, as 63 per cent of respondents reported an increase in

the number of virtual meetings they had attended in the past five to 10 years.

“Although developments in technology allow businessmen and women to make achievements in meetings that would have been impossible a few years back, meeting face-to-face continues to bring significant benefits that are much harder to obtain through virtual channels,” business psychologist and body language expert, Hazel Carter-Showell, said.

Respondents cited starting a new business relationship (57 per cent), finalising a deal (54 per cent), and contract negotiation (53 per cent) as the top subjects

MICE tradeshow launches in Africa Africa – The growing demand for meetings industry suppliers within Africa has prompted the first IBTM Africa, set to take place from April 28-30 in Cape Town.

Part of Reed Travel Exhibitions’ Africa Travel Week, IBTM Africa will comprise one-on-one business appointments, education and networking over an exclusive table-top format. Through a prescheduled appointment system, 50 regional exhibitors will be matched with 50 qualified hosted buyers from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and Asia Pacific, all of whom have proven purchasing power and guaranteed business. Exhibitors at IBTM Africa will include hotels and venues, national/state tourism organisations and

8

micenet Asia

convention bureaux, travel management companies, destination management companies, event management companies, professional conference organisers, airlines, technology, business travel, and MICE-related suppliers.

“Each international hosted buyer attending will participate in a minimum of 36 pre-scheduled business appointments.

This ensures every supplier attending will have a significant number of opportunities to showcase their products to an international audience,” Reed Travel Exhibitions project manager for IBTM Africa, Shinu Pillai said.

South Africa-based DMC Green Route’s David Dodgeon, who will be attending IBTM Africa with a group of 16 international buyers, commented: “Africa provides a perfect meetings industry destination for a number of reasons. The continent offers a huge contrast in terms of culture and history and is well situated in terms of flight routes and global access.

The table-top format, which IBTM Africa will offer, will allow us to spend quality oneon-one time with potential clients.”

they prefer discussing face-to-face.

Countries also had varying preferences on when a face-to-face meeting should be conducted, which may play a role in the outcome of these meetings. Monday mornings are considered the best time of the week for productive meetings in China, India, and UAE, while Tuesday mornings were identified as the optimum time for successful face-to-face meetings in the UK and US. The findings were based on an internet survey of 2170 business professionals and meeting attendees, with interviews conducted by TNS Global in August 2013.

Kyoto historic sites open to groups Japan – International meetings and incentive groups to Kyoto can now take part in a special sight-seeing programme showcasing the ancient capital’s historic sites. Developed to introduce the elegant traditional culture in Kyoto, programme options include visits to the famous Zen temple Kodai-ji to watch Noh theatre or a fashion show of models wearing 12-layered ceremonial kimonos worn by ninth century aristocrats.

The grounds of Kyoto’s temples and shrines can also be used to host evening receptions or incentive parties in the lit-up Japanese gardens, complete with performances of ancient Japanese court music or taiko drumming. m

Reward your team with front row seats to the world’s smallest parade

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE AUSTRALIA FOR YOUR NEXT BUSINESS EVENT. PLAN NOW, VISIT BUSINESSEVENTS.AUSTRALIA.COM

cover story

Australia raises MICE standards at Dreamtime With a showcase of its finest local culinary and incentive experiences, Australia sought to prove to discerning international buyers that there is no better place to meet and do business. By Kristie Thong A selected group of quality event buyers got a taste of Australia’s outstanding incentive experiences last December at Dreamtime 2013. Known as Tourism Australia’s signature event showcasing the very best of Down Under, the event was held from December 9-13 and hosted 85 international business events decision makers and 18 international media who converged in Melbourne for business and networking events before proceeding onto educational programmes in Adelaide, Cairns, Gold Coast, Northern Territory, and Sydney.

Buyers were treated to a rich variety of culinary menus designed by Australia’s most internationally recognised chefs and a comprehensive programme featuring lesserknown incentive experiences, held together by the strong ties of Australian hospitality.

The week-long Dreamtime event was an opportunity to ensure Australia remained top-of-mind internationally as an exceptional place to meet and do business, according to former Tourism Australia managing director, Andrew McEvoy.

“Exceptional experiences and worldclass destinations, with the backdrop of a pristine natural environment, are key reasons why Australia consistently ranks as a preferred business events destination for the international market,” he said.

Important partners contributing to the success of Dreamtime 2013 included Virgin Australia and Singapore Airlines, which were on board as platinum and gold sponsors respectively.

Meet Melbourne Dreamtime 2013 began with business sessions in the host city at Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC).

10

micenet Asia

Helicopter ride over Great Ocean Road.

Cooking demonstration by Kylie Kwong.

Business session in MCEC.

Pre-scheduled appointments during the day saw buyers and media meeting with Australian industry participants that included 12 national operators, sponsor airlines, and 55 state-based operators with representation from Queensland, New South Wales, Northern Territory, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Western Australia.

The following day saw buyers taking on full-day itineraries of the city’s culture and experiential offerings, from a millinery workshop and coffee making to an exploration of Melbourne’s hidden laneways and arcades, and even a helicopter flight along Great Ocean Road.

Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.

With many in this group already familiar with Sydney as an incentive destination, Business Events Sydney crafted a unique programme that drew focus away from the harbour city’s renowned attractions for a fresh perspective.

Upon arrival, buyers were transferred to Rose Bay for an experience on board a 1850s-styled tall ship. Cruising across Sydney Harbour in style amid tales of Sydney’s rich history and iconic landmarks, the ship dropped anchor at the historic Rocks for lunch. Here at the Rocks, better known as the birthplace of colonial Australia, buyers indulged in a sumptuous

Secret Sydney Buyers took off for educational programmes across the country after a grand send-off at the Regent Theatre. Buyers from North America proceeded to Cairns, Japanese and South Korean buyers to Gold Coast, and New Zealand and UK buyers to Uluru.

To coincide with the Adelaide Ashes Test, Indian buyers participated in a tour of Adelaide prior to the business component in Melbourne for a day of cricket.

Sydney was the chosen destination for 50 buyers from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan,

Exceptional experiences and world-class destinations, with the backdrop of a pristine natural environment, are key reasons why Australia consistently ranks as a preferred business events destination for the international market.”

ANDREW MCEVOY TOURISM AUSTRALIA FORMER MANAGING DIRECTOR

cover story

Sydney Dance Company.

Key Contacts: Tourism Australia www.tourism.australia.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOURISM AUSTRALIA

Icebergs at Bondi.

seafood feast at Waterfront Restaurant.

A highlight of the Sydney educational programme was “My Sydney Stories Showcase”, a glimpse into the city’s bestkept secrets, frequented by locals but often overlooked by tourists and conference attendees.

The showcase began at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar on scenic Bondi Beach. Ignatius Jones, Australian creative event director who directed the 2000 Sydney Olympics opening and closing ceremonies, was there to share insights on Sydney’s transformation into the multicultural city of today, along with Australian designer fashion Ginger & Smart.

The group proceeded for a tour around the newly reopened Royal Randwick Racecourse, with Australian jockey Darren Beadman paying a special visit just before a phantom race for buyers to cast their “bets”.

Lunch was at The Grounds of Alexandria, an early 1900s factory warehouse converted into an inner city rustic sanctuary for specialty coffee, coffee research and testing facility, and a garden of sustainable vegetables and herbs.

Celebrity chef Kylie Kwong, of famous restaurant Billy Kwong, conducted a cooking demonstration, which involved the use of indigenous vegetables, after which buyers settled down for a sumptuous lunch that included a dish Kylie prepared on-site.

Buyers visited the Sydney Dance Company next, through a backstage tour that saw some taking the stage with some dancers.

The last day of Dreamtime’s Sydney

Indigenous culture at The Grounds of Alexandria.

Melbourne Convention Bureau www.melbournecb.com.au Australian delicacies at Vue de monde.

educational programme kicked off with a VIP shopping experience at Westfield Sydney, followed by a fun-filled afternoon of activities focused on three themes – Iconic Sydney, Naturally Sydney, and Adventure Sydney – from a city tour on Harley Davidson bikes and a Sydney harbour foreshore walk to adrenalin-pumping activities at Glenworth Valley. Buyers were in high spirits when the day ended with a prestigious farewell function at Government House, graced by George Souris, New South Wales Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Hospitality and Racing and Minister for Arts.

“Sydney is a city unlike any other, with something to suit every event budget, size and style. From the adventurous to the sophisticated, you can’t go wrong with Sydney as a destination that rewards, motivates and inspires. Importantly, the city caters for both first-time and repeat visitors – our strong reputation for delivering beyond expectations is built on a track record of success,” commented Lyn LewisSmith, CEO of Business Events Sydney.

In good taste Apart from truly unique incentive experiences, Mr McEvoy feels it is also the country’s growing reputation as “a culinary destination that is drawing business events to Australia”. And at Dreamtime 2013, delegates were invited to enjoy the best locally produced gourmet delights.

Some got a taste of Guy Grossi and Tony Panetta’s perfectly-poached 63-degree organic eggs cooked carefully in their shells for over two hours at MCEC,

Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre www.mcec.com.au Business Events Sydney www.businesseventssydney.com.au Waterfront Restaurant www.docksidegroup.com.au/ restaurants/waterfront Icebergs Dining Room and Bar www.idrb.com Royal Randwick Racecourse www.australianturfclub.com.au/royal_ randwick_events.html The Grounds of Alexandria www.groundsroasters.com Sydney Dance Company www.sydneydancecompany.com Vue Events at the Rialto www.vuedemonde.com.au/events-atrialto

while others sampled Shannon Bennett’s distinctly Australian menu at Vue Events at the Rialto, which included tea tree smoked salmon pearls, emu jerky, and salt cured wallaby and marron.

Delegates also indulged in celebrity chef Luke Mangan’s three-course menu featuring Tasmanian salmon and Victorian beef. m

Sydney is a city unlike any other, with something to suit every event budget, size and style. From the adventurous to the sophisticated, you can’t go wrong with Sydney as a destination that rewards, motivates and inspires.”

LYN LEWIS-SMITH BUSINESS EVENTS SYDNEY CEO micenet Asia

11

Dreamtime dinner showcases Aussie multiculturalism

By Kristie Thong

Event overview As part of an elaborate Dreamtime 2013 programme aimed at showcasing the best of what Australia has to offer, a gala dinner was hosted on the second evening in Melbourne at the Plaza Ballroom of Regent Theatre. Organised by Tourism Australia, together with platinum partner Virgin Australia and event management company Peter Jones Special Events, the dinner signified the end of business sessions in the city before buyers flew to different parts of the country for Dreamtime’s educational components.

12

micenet Asia

It saw the attendance of 85 business event decision makers, industry stakeholders, and international media.

Execution Peter Jones, managing director of Peter Jones Special Events, said the Plaza was selected for the dinner because it is a unique venue that showcases the heritage and grandeur of Melbourne.

“It is also a venue that has not been used on a regular basis for industry events,” he said.

The ballroom venue was first hidden

NAME OF EVENT

Dreamtime Dinner

ORGANISER

Tourism Australia

PARTNER

Virgin Australia

EVENT COMPANY

Peter Jones Special Events

VENUE

Regent Theatre, Melbourne, Australia

OCCUPIED SPACE

Plaza ballroom

WHEN

December 10, 2013

PAX

210

BUDGET

Undisclosed

from attendees by a thin translucent veil during pre-dinner cocktails. When it was time for guests to take their seats, they were greeted by soft lighting exuding opulence, with long tables donned with floral arrangements.

“We also made a decision to use long tables as they created a more elegant setting than just standard round tables.

This dinner had to have a totally different look and feel, which is what we achieved with using the long tables,” Mr Jones said.

Tourism Australia general manager, Penny Lion, said the gala dinner was

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOURISM AUSTRALIA.

case study

case study ON THE MENU – by Luke Mangan

Entrée Fresh salmon sashimi seasoned with ginger and eschallots and topped with Persian feta and wild rocket

organised with a global audience in mind.

“We had a diverse audience – from experienced buyers in China to fresh event planners who have never been to Australia – and different things appeal to different people.”

The screens featured a photo stream of images featuring buyers with superimposed signature landscapes in Australia, taken during the business sessions a day before.

Buyers also found framed individual images of themselves at their seats.

Attendees enjoyed a three-course menu

by Australian celebrity chef, Luke Mangan, between multicultural interactive performances ranging from Gangnam Style (Korea) and a bagpipe performance (UK) to Jai Ho (India) and Blue Danube Waltz (China).

Australia explained how it was all going to work and get the different regions to agree to be part of it. This was not easy as the concept of certain countries actually ‘performing’ was quite daunting and we had to be culturally-sensitive. However, they all came to the party and represented themselves and their countries with pride. In fact, all of them came up afterwards and said how much they enjoyed it,” Mr Jones said.

It was also a challenge to get all the buyers’ photos taken to be used for the dinner. With careful planning, a photographer and two staff were working round-the-clock to ensure they captured everyone in the pre-determined location in Australia. A list was also prepared in advance to facilitate the project.

Challenges & triumphs

Event outcome

Tourism Australia aimed to impress an audience that individually handled so many gala dinners as well as attended them.

“That was our biggest consideration,” Ms Lion said.

Similarly, Peter Jones Special Events aimed to make the event as interactive as possible, involving many of the international buyers.

“This was quite a challenge as Tourism

The team received hundreds of thank-you emails about the dinner, with many mentions to the food and entertainment that included audience participation.

Buyers felt the cross-cultural experience was a truly unique touch, something the event managed to highlight about Australia.

“We want it bigger and better at the next Dreamtime,” Ms Lion said. m

Main Succulent tenderloin of locallysourced Australian beef, highlighted by fragrant pumpkin purée and accompanied by asparagus, shiitake mushrooms, and almonds Dessert A floating island of soft, orange zested meringue served atop an arrangement of seasonal fruits and drizzled with Frangelico crème anglaise

micenet Asia

13

global watch

Wrestling crisis, mothering invention

The City of Athens’ MICE and tourism industry was hit hard during the economic crisis, but concerted efforts by the CVB, national stakeholders and locals prove the Greeks are well on the way to recovery. By Robert Cotter When fragile European economies began to shudder from the shockwaves of the US-triggered GFC, it was the peripheral countries that were shaken up most drastically, none more so than Greece and its capital city: Athens. The political turmoil and social unrest of the economic upheaval was broadcast internationally, which had an inevitable impact on the city as the bedrock of the Greece’s MICE industry and more widely on a country used to 20 per cent of its GDP stemming from tourism. Faced with having to wrestle the consequences of the crisis and adapt to an era of austerity, the Greek MICE and tourism industries have had to become adept at doing more with less, whilst at the same time demonstrating to the world that they are still an attractive, competitive and viable proposition.

“The problem for Greece in general and 14

micenet Asia

for Athens in particular was the negative image created mainly during 2009-2011, because of political instability, certain incidents of unrest and social turmoil. But this was an image that was highly exaggerated by foreign media,” explained Alexia Panagiotopoulou, marketing and sales director of the City of Athens CVB. “The main challenges for us have therefore been to prove the obvious: that the destination is safe and functional, as well as to convince potential clients that their events and participants are not in any

kind of ‘danger’ or any other hazard.”

Setting out to disprove the negative media portrayal of the city and rebuild their international reputation as a quality destination, Greek MICE stakeholders quickly swung into action and began working together to rebuild confidence and explore new ideas. The first step in this was to actively nurture political support for their industry as part of a solid platform for economic recovery, which also helped address organiser doubt at a critical time for scheduled events.

As a result Athens is nowadays a highly competitive MICE destination, not only thanks to its rich cultural identity, but also thanks to its very low prices and value, especially compared to other European and regional destinations.

global watch

“Several conferences and meetings were cancelled during those three years and the destination was being avoided by organisers and clients in terms of future events, but events that did take place, despite concerns and hesitation, proved to be very successful, fruitful and flawless, with most participants expressing a high degree of satisfaction,” Ms Panagiotopoulou said.

These events, which were three major European Society of Cardiology (ESC) conferences planned to take place in Athens in December 2012, June 2013 and June 2014, have thus far received testimonials from participants stating it was “one of the best conferences they have ever attended”.

Having rescued the event from potential cancellation, being able to garner such praise was unquestionably aided by the range of initiatives that were also set in train by the Greek MICE industry, as well as the spirit, industry and belief of the people involved.

“Extensive direct communication with all parties involved, a much greater number of site inspections and FAM trips, getting

reassurances from the local authorities and stakeholders, and extensive yet sincere use of social media have all been some of the main directions that the key players followed in order to turn the situation around,” Ms Panagiotopoulou said.

An example of a successful initiative is “This is my Athens”, the city’s Greeter’s Programme aimed at tackling the negative effects of the crisis. Consisting of volunteer Athens locals showcasing the city and assuring visitors of its safety and friendliness, the campaign runs exclusively on social media and has already attracted more than 400 volunteers and hundreds of free walks so far.

“The City of Athens CVB is also investing in actions which will strengthen the existing tourism infrastructure, convey a unified and competitive identity for Athens, and promote the city abroad,” she continued. “The goal is to portray all that Athens has to offer to as many people as possible. And to achieve this we have started organising a series of annual workshops and forums, branded as Travel Trade Athens (TTA), dedicated to showcasing the destination through B2B appointments between international hosted buyers and local suppliers as well as through FAM trips. The first TTA took place in April 2013 and we will build on its success in the next event that we are in the process of organising for April this year.”

Last October, the bureau also held a joint initiative of the City of Athens and the United Nations Development Programme, the Black Sea Tourism Forum and Workshop to promote the image of the city and its unique characteristics as an ideal MICE and leisure destination.

Whilst the City of Athens CVB was tirelessly working to raise the city’s profile around the world, MICE stakeholders were also working hard in a spirit of togetherness against the crisis, playing a key role in boosting the city’s profile through efforts including the opening of historic sites not previously accessible to events.

“A good example of such cooperation has been the organisation of the World Philosophy Congress,” Ms Panagiotopoulou said. “To meet the needs of the Congress, the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Tourism, the Municipality of Athens and the City of Athens CVB all worked closely together to successfully host an event that is of major importance to our city, with approximately

Several conferences and meetings were cancelled during those three years and the destination was being avoided by organisers and clients in terms of future events, but events that did take place, despite concerns and hesitation, proved to be very successful, fruitful and flawless, with most participants expressing a high degree of satisfaction.

ALEXIA PANAGIOTOPOULOU CITY OF ATHENS CVB MARKETING AND SALES DIRECTOR

3500 delegates staying in the city for seven days. To meet the wishes of the organisers, all of the stakeholders worked closely to have sessions at some of Athens’ most significant sites, such as the archaeological site of Plato’s Academy, Aristotle’s Lyceum and Odeon Hedorius Atticus, which had not been used in the past for such purposes.”

National stakeholders such as the Greek National Tourism Organisation, the local tourism associations and transport companies like Aegean Airlines have been very supportive of the TTA initiative and have sponsored part of the costs needed to organise the event, according to Ms Panagiotopoulou.

Since 2008, Greeks have often said that “crisis is the mother of invention”.

Such a concerted approach to tackling crisis has led to initiatives that are setting benchmarks for how the global industry can become more streamlined, more competitive, and offer higher value.

“We believe that in every crisis there is an opportunity,” Ms Panagiotopoulou stated. “For the city of Athens especially, it was the opportunity to re-evaluate the city’s leisure and business tourism services and to record all the improvements that we need to work towards should we wish to enhance the city’s tourism product.”

“As a result Athens is nowadays a highly competitive MICE destination, not only thanks to its rich cultural identity, but also thanks to its very low prices and value, especially compared to other European and regional destinations.” m micenet Asia

15

ASSOCIATIONS

Why we exist JANET TAN-COLLIS SACEOS PRESIDENT

The launch of an Enterprise Training Support Scheme is just one of the steps SACEOS has taken to address existing talent issues in Singapore’s MICE industry.

Why does SACEOS exist? Do we deliver value to members?

The best way to answer these questions is to consider a prevalent issue in the MICE industry: shortage of talent and the high staff attrition rates.

Singapore’s MICE human capital is under threat. For a service-oriented industry, these threats are dangerous.

Unless and until we make a concerted effort to diminish these threats, they will worsen, and erode Singapore’s competitiveness as a MICE destination.

MICE human capital is the collective capacities of our MICE personnel. We have to invest in this if we want to ensure longterm economic success. Our ability to do so will determine whether Singapore’s MICE industry is able to regenerate and sustain the growth we require.

The World Economic Forum’s Human Capital Report of 2013 stated: “This resource must be invested in… in order for it to generate returns, for the

individuals involved as well as an economy as a whole.”

Consider the consequences if the MICE industry does not have a deliberate scheme to encourage human capital investments – which is still sporadic at the moment.

This is a reason why SACEOS exists: we represent the industry’s issues and seek the right solutions. Our challenge today is to persuade MICE companies to buy into deliberate and sustained investments in human capital. If we are able to do this, we would have started the journey towards raising Singapore’s competitive prowess across time.

Without us there will not be a uniform and consistent pursuit of the right type of partners and products which are required most by the MICE industry.

As we understand the constraints of companies that result in restricting investments in human capital, we set about reducing these constraints.

We struck agreements with the

We struck agreements with the Singapore Workforce Development Authority and the Ministry of Manpower to become the programme manager for the Enterprise Training Support Scheme (ETS). With SACEOS in the equation, we make it easier and faster for MICE co mpanies to get government training grants, with the additional flexibility in choice of training programmes.

16

micenet Asia

Singapore Workforce Development Authority and the Ministry of Manpower to become the programme manager for the Enterprise Training Support Scheme (ETS). With SACEOS in the equation, we make it easier and faster for MICE companies to get government training grants, with the additional flexibility in choice of training programmes.

Another milestone: our partnership with the Chicago-based Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) will make the highly-coveted Certified Meeting Planners (CMP) programme more accessible.

PCMA will train local CMP qualified professionals to be programme trainers, hence creating a resource that can multiply the availability of the programme to more professionals in Singapore. This will also lower costs, and enable more amenable programme schedules to suit busy professionals.

Both these milestones lower the threshold for entrants.

Of course such efforts take time to bear fruit. That does not mean we should not start. Now that we have started, we have at least answered one part of the question – SACEOS exists because we act for the industry to identify issues, solidify collaborations, and expedite processes to bring to our members programmes that are relevant to their businesses. m

ASSOCIATIONS ADVERTORIAL

Countdown to Kuala Lumpur Linda P Gaunt Chief Executive officer

There is a lot of buzz around the MEA National Conference coming to Kuala Lumpur in 2014 – is there a trend for Australian association meetings to go offshore?

Not so much a trend although several Australian associations have held their conferences overseas and particularly in Asia in order to attract a more diverse audience and grow membership. As MEA represents all sectors of the MICE industry and is the peak association, we need to lead the way in terms of discovering new destinations and new ways of conferencing. We want to provide a platform for our members to forge new relationships with our Asian neighbours and we want to take our education into new regions so it’s a win-win really.

So what can readers of micenet Asia expect if they register for the MEA 2014 conference?

Our conference spans three days – two days of solid business programme with a wide selection of breakout sessions and workshops and for next year we have also

With just over two months to go before the national conference, micenet sat down with MEA CEO Linda Gaunt to find out how plans are progressing.

introduced a Teaching Stream which will have great appeal to corporate and association in-house meeting planners. The first day focuses on Special Interest Groups, a half day seminar just for YMEA delegates (under 30’s) and a First Timer’s Session – an ice breaker for new attendees to ask questions, find out how to make the most of the conference and learn the best way to network and start building relationships with buyers and suppliers.

Being an Australian conference, are there any special social events planned?

Absolutely. Our feedback from delegates shows that networking and education are the two main reasons why they attend our conferences. Furthermore, the social programme gives the host destination a chance to showcase venues and locations further afield than the main conference centre. In Kuala Lumpur we will be organising a number of social activities including a welcome reception, ClubMEA (which is a tradition) and of course our national awards gala evening. MyCEB, our host, has organised several free tours to heritage sites, markets and cultural centres for delegates who are able to arrive a day earlier as there will be very little free time once the conference begins. m

micenet Asia

17

Q&A

PERRY PING SHUM NANYANG TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY DIRECTOR, OPTIMUS-PHOTONICS CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

DAVID GOH MCI SINGAPORE MANAGING DIRECTOR

Growing with ambassadors Singapore Experience Awards 2013’s winner of the Business Event Ambassador award, Professor Perry Ping Shum, on efforts that eventually secured one of the biggest optoelectronics conference for Singapore.

How does it feel to win the Business Event Ambassador award and contribute to a higher standard of MICE excellence in Singapore?

It’s a great honour to receive such a prestigious award. I was the founding chair of Photonics Global Conference (PGC) in Singapore and involved IEEE as technical sponsor. PGC is now becoming the signature photonics conference in Singapore, which creates significant impact both locally and internationally.

With UNESCO recently declaring 2015 as the International Year of Light, PGC 2015 will co-locate with International Conference on Materials for Advanced Technologies (ICMAT) to create a mega conference in material and photonics in the year of light.

With the support of Singapore Tourism Board (STB), I went to the US to bid for the biggest optoelectronics conference in the Pacific Rim in 2010 and 2012. Even though it was not successful, the presentation was able to create an impact and made more overseas committee members aware of Singapore as an 18

micenet Asia

excellent choice for international conferences. It was a great pleasure working with STB, and we finally succeeded in getting this international conference for 2017.

How important are ambassadors for Singapore’s business events sector?

The STB-initiated Conference Ambassador Programme (CAP) is very successful. An ambassador is a neutral volunteer who is able to provide many useful suggestions or insights. I find the regular dialogue/sharing sessions organised by STB extremely useful. From these meetings, I learn a lot about the difficulties other ambassadors are facing while organising events.

Organising a successful event requires you to consider many parameters, and a general guideline is always needed.

However, the number of parameters is changing over the years. And as Singapore’s business events sector continues to grow, ambassadors can play an important role of providing timely feedback and advice.

Staff development key to further success MCI Singapore bagged two awards at SEA 2013 – the Association Conference award for the 15th World Conference on Tobacco or Health and Meeting of the Year for Amway Taiwan 2012 Leadership Seminar. While it is a hefty achievement, managing director David Goh will continue to push for more.

What does winning the awards mean for MCI? We have a great team that works well with the clients and, most importantly, has the motivation to delve deeper within them to strive for excellence and to deliver their best.

Winning the award means a lot to the team members, as it affirms the work they do every day that is often left unsung. This is a great recognition and endorsement to the team members. For the organisation, the award provides greater impetus to further achieve and excel.

How will MCI continue to push boundaries and strive for excellence?

We will continue to invest in our staff, developing within them new skillsets, and also push new innovative solutions and services to meet the ever-changing market dynamics. m

Q&A

Fulfilling needs at The Star JAKKI TEMPLE THE STAR FORMER GENERAL MANAGER OF SALES AND MARKETING

What has The Star been doing, or is going to do, to attract key MICE target markets?

From a small incentive perspective, some of the things we are starting to do more of is engaging our celebrity chefs and awardwinning restaurants for one-on-one experiences. From master classes to time in a working kitchen, we can make anything happen within our premises.

Quite often these incentive groups do not have a lot of time and do not wish to rush about, but they do want to give their customers a world of experiences. And we are trying to offer that all in one place.

We have had a lot of attention from groups coming from some Chinese provinces – we had a group from Perfect China last year, and the news must have spread because we have four incentives from various parts of China for this year.

Some are using our event centre for a whole conference, and some are using it just for a gala dinner.

We are also sharing some things we have done for the local market with the international market. We opened a new venue not very long ago called Sky Terrace, and that space is becoming increasingly popular for people to get a good dining experience and also to have a different view of Sydney. We are going to keep it open throughout the year, and though it is subject to weather, we have used clear marquees and we also have a wet weather solution, which will enable us to keep surprising people. Some of these incentive groups have been to so many famous, iconic places in the world, and they would want to have that element of surprise.

The smallest international incentive group that has been booked is 32 pax,

Sydney’s only integrated resort, The Star, understands what Asian MICE buyers need due to the flexibility and understanding from a team of multicultural employees. while the largest one with a tentative contract is 800, but they are putting up in hotels across Sydney including ours, and using our event centre.

How big is the MICE component for the Chinese market?

It constitutes 80 per cent of the international market share. For all our MICE markets, it is currently about 20 per cent. With the way Australia is seeing more and more Chinese travellers, anyone can see that it will spread to the MICE side of the business. We are focusing on targeting China and Southeast Asia MICE business in proactivity. That said, we are getting a bit more incentive business from Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong. Singapore remains a large part of our corporate traveller business.

Where is the competition coming from?

We are not competing with anyone in Sydney. In Australia, Sydney and Melbourne compete quite a lot but that is often the case. Groups that have been to Sydney will naturally decide to go with Melbourne. Small incentive groups tend to spend some days in Sydney and a couple of Queensland. That seems to be a natural fit and it works for us.

When we find out that a piece of business is not coming to Australia at all after being part of the bid process, it is usually because they are choosing to remain closer to home.

understand the Asian language and culture. For example, we have about five staff in sales and marketing who come from slightly different backgrounds and that enables them to understand different parts of the MICE market well. We also have a wide range of F&B and celebrity chefs, and we are able to translate that to the event centre if it is required.

We are Sydney’s only integrated resort, with hotels, F&B, and live entertainment happening all the time. And we have the flexibility to accommodate groups that are here when performances are on, and include that entertainment as part of the overall incentive experience. m

We are quite easy to work with because our sales, events and hotel staff all understand the Asian language and culture. For example, we have about five staff in sales and marketing who come from slightly different backgrounds and that enables them to understand different parts of the MICE market well.

What are some things you would like Asian MICE buyers to know about The Star?

We are quite easy to work with because our sales, events and hotel staff all micenet Asia

19

education

Sealing the deal With many event planners deciding on a venue only after thorough site inspections, how venues manage the on-site experiences for the buyer is what makes or breaks a sale. By Kristie Thong

Site inspections are one of the most crucial responsibilities of an event planner.

As a highly experiential industry, they are critical in giving planners a first-hand understanding and inkling of how a destination, venue or space can be used.

Site inspections allow buyers to affirm their event objectives and desired outcomes. They also allow them to see beyond polished marketing collaterals and the promises of venue sales professionals, and offer an opportunity to build trust and business relationships in the industry. On the flip side, site inspections and trial stays give venues a chance to showcase their brand of hospitality when an interested buyer is always a sign that the venue stands a good chance of securing the business.

“Many features key to the success of

Many features key to the success of your event can be missed without a detailed and recent inspection of a site.

DANIEL CHUA AONIA MANAGING DIRECTOR

20

micenet Asia

your event can be missed without a detailed and recent inspection of a site,” says AONIA managing director, Daniel Chua.

Qualified buyers will narrow down a list of venues for inspection, and these venues often have the right initial attributes – the size of an events space, location, aesthetics, brand and service reputation, and sometimes price. While price may be an important factor in the decision making process, it is often not the main factor as experienced buyers will choose to pay for quality and assured success.

Preparation Start by getting as much information about the event as possible. Unless the client does not have the answers, no prospective client will hesitate to share details of the event as long as the seller keeps them confidential. Buyers who are not willing to share information will often not get the best deal, while those who do, especially event or destination management companies, should be given priority in the quoting and negotiation process. Additionally, venues and hotels should always send in the best sales and event operations representative to conduct the inspection.

At the site inspection A good inspection must be carried out professionally and in the right frame of mind, according to Mr Chua. This means showing respect by being punctual, as well as showing respect and behaving with decorum, particularly in cases where hotels usually extend VIP treatment to buyers on a serious site inspection. It is

education

always useful to have a checklist of things to look out for that are specific to the event or future needs. And rather than relying on digitally-enhanced images, Mr Chua feels it is wise for buyers to take photos themselves for a truer interpretation of a venue during inspection.

For venue sales professionals tasked with the inspection, it is important to be

immaculately and professionally groomed, while making the buyer feel welcomed and comfortable without any unnecessary small talk. At the beginning, venue representatives should give a quick overview of what the site inspection will entail, keeping in mind the list of areas they have requested to view.

Instead of highlighting the obvious

Rather than simply stating that wireless Internet is included, go the extra mile to mention any assistance the hotel’s IT department can provide in cases where corporate clients have stricter firewall restrictions.

micenet Asia

21

education

within a venue, buyers will be able to make more informed decisions when venues make references to how the facilities and elements can enhance a delegate’s experience. For example, rather than simply stating that wireless internet is included, go the extra mile to mention any assistance the hotel’s IT department can provide in cases where corporate clients have stricter firewall restrictions.

The site inspection is a good way for venues to get feedback about the property, as well as use the opportunity to introduce key members of the venue to the prospective client. Introducing hotel general managers or event directors and allowing them to share their experiences often give buyers more confidence that their events will be well taken care of.

Event logistics is an important part of the business negotiation and should not be overlooked. Buyers who provide comprehensive details will allow a venue sales professional to ascertain the costs and also prepare the business to accept and manage certain challenges. With safety on the top of any event buyer’s mind, emergency plans should always be discussed, and venues should try to provide one during the site inspection.

Buyers should express appreciation after a site inspection, Mr Chua says, as the site would have expended resources to facilitate a visit.

“This will motivate the person conducting the inspection to keep doing what is often a thankless job.”

Venues should also ask for honest feedback after the inspection, and find out where they stand amongst the choices. To ensure any loose ends are tied after the inspection, venue sales representatives should set a decision date, or ask the buyer if a contract can be issued. m

22

micenet Asia

WHAT VENUES NEED TO KNOW BEFORE A SITE INSPECTION

Who is attending the site inspection – Is it a decision maker, and what is the estimated revenue impact to the venue?

How much time the buyer has for the inspection – it is important to stick to the time limit.

Parts of the venue that the buyer wants to see

Parts of the venue that the buyer does not need to see – it is important to exclude irrelevant products

Number of venues the buyer is viewing, and which venues

Why buyer has decided to inspect the venue

Attributes the buyer is looking out for

Event details, including the delegates

With safety on the top of any event buyer’s mind, emergency plans should always be discussed, and venues should try to provide one during the site inspection.

Bali

over here and

over supplied

Aerial view of Nusa Dua Beach, Bali.

24

micenet Asia

The Center to Unite the World

Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center (BNDCC) is configured to have the capacity for your various business events activity in any size. It consists of multiple purpose-built function rooms including a pillar-less convention hall in a large-scale area, which is sub-dividable into flexible smaller rooms to accommodate your numerous conferences with different set-ups, from a seated gala dinner to theatre or classroom-style and to showcase a wide display of exhibitions.

With a total floor area of 50,000 sqm and the total capacity of 12,000 people, we offer a total of 44 multi-functional-flexible rooms providing opportunities to host more simultaneous international events.

www.baliconventioncenter.com For more details, please call +62 361 773000 or email events@baliconventioncenter.com

bali

Frangipani Meeting Room at AYANA Resort and Spa Bali.

A victim of its own unprecedented success, the island of Bali is now faced with an oversupply of hotel rooms with no sign of construction slowing down in 2014.

By Samantha Coomber

26

micenet Asia

In 2010, Indonesian Ministerial officials urged the Balinese Government to temporarily halt new hotel development, arguing there were sufficient rooms based on projected arrival numbers for 2015 and further building would create unhealthy repercussions. Bali tourism stakeholders, including Bali Chapter, Association of Indonesian Tour and Travel Agents (ASITA) have repeatedly lobbied for a clamp-down on Bali’s uncontrolled hotel construction.

By 2012, Bali Tourism Office, Bisnis Bali and many others confirmed that Bali’s hotel supply was outstripping demands, now estimated at over 75,000 hotel rooms and by end 2014, 100,000.

Bagus Sudibya, head of Association of Indonesian Tour and Travel Agencies (ASITA), was quoted in the media that an accommodation oversupply had become a critical problem facing Balinese tourism.

Worse, 90 per cent of hotel development is all bunched-up in southern Bali, in Badung (including Kuta-Legian-Seminyak, Bukit and Nusa Dua) and Gianyar regencies and Denpasar mayoralty – the island’s wealthiest regions where overdevelopment is most evident. Of projected accommodation developments up to 2016, 50 per cent are earmarked for the south’s Nusa Dua, Bukit, Tanjung Benoa, and Jimbaran. South Bali has long been Bali’s key tourist zone and

continues, while other regions lack decent infrastructure.

Despite this, investors keep building more hotels, and increasingly, internationally-branded properties and big projects, set to open within the coming years, including Rosewood, Jumeirah, Raffles, Shangri-La, Ritz Carlton, GHM, and Alila luxury groups.

Why the build-up?

Estimated foreign arrival figures for 2013 are at a record-breaking 3.2 million, with a projected 3.5 million for 2014. Indonesia’s domestic market continues to be the main force behind Bali’s tourism strength, with arrivals more than doubling in four years and a projected 6 million for 2015.

Excess supply has surpassed demand. We’ve no other solution than to stop building new accommodation facilities and intensify promotion until the situation improves.

Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati Bali Tourism Promotion Board Chairman

MEETINGS ARE EXACTLY LIKE NOTHING ELSE EXPERIENCE A HOTEL LIKE NO OTHER IN LEGIAN.

Jalan Raya Pantai Kuta, Banjar Legian Kelod, Legian Bali, Indonesia T +62 361 3005888 F +62 361 3005999 toll free 001 803 606 278 ( Indonesia only ) E reservations@stoneshotelbali.com - www.stoneshotelbali.com

R

bali Major events in Bali helped boost occupancy levels, but mainly for Nusa Dua hotels around the event venues, not so much for other parts of Bali.

Ida Bagus Purwa Sidemen Bali Chapter of PHRI Executive director

Tourism, including accommodation construction, contributes approximately 67 per cent of Bali’s buoyant GDP in 2013.

Under the 2001 Regional Autonomy Law, Bali’s regional administrations exercise the right to manage their own tourism development, authorising new building permits without securing government approval. Tourist-related facility revenues are for most, their main (and lucrative) income source.

In 2011, the government issued a moratorium on hotel construction in southern Bali, designed to tackle overdevelopment and directing investment to less-developed regions. However, none of Bali’s regional administrations have implemented this and new building permits continue to be issued. Bali’s most overdeveloped regency, Badung, received harsh criticism, accused of “selling off its land to large-scale investors”. And investors’ confidence is fuelled by governmental commitment to infrastructure projects, besides the highly anticipated international events in 2013 – including APEC – and potentially lucrative off-shoots. Without any government-integrated tourism plan and conflicting provincial and regional interests, uncontrolled construction prevails.

Fall outs Even with increasing visitor figures, it’s widely acknowledged by tourist organisations, including Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI), that Bali’s excessive accommodation supply will outstrip demand in 2014 and 2015.

These arrival figures are actually experiencing a slowing of growth, from double-digit rates to around five per cent, without allowing for stagnation or decline due to unforeseen factors.

Uncontrolled development has also led to alarming environmental impact, including worsening pollution, flooding problems, and social and cultural 28

micenet Asia

problems – most notably in the south.

One tourism official was quoted in the media saying the “government never thinks of how much water and electricity will be used for every new building permit issued”, which in turn, directly affect local communities facing shortages of these limited resources.

With building codes invariably ignored, Balinese traditional aesthetics are declining.

Infrastructure is deemed insufficient for current needs in southern Bali, let alone coping with more development. Improved infrastructure is required before development can kick-start in other regions.

“Bali’s development boom does have ramifications on supply-demand ratio as Bali‘s Airport, despite adding a new international terminal, doesn’t have the capacity to land enough flights to fill all of Bali’s existing hotels, let alone new ones,” states Roger Habermacher, general manager of AYANA Resort.

Despite increasing visitors, official statistics indicate hotel occupancies are now on the decline (even during festive peak season), averaging between 50 and 62 per cent in 2013 for star-rated hotels (70 per cent enables hotels to profit). Most agree the accommodation oversupply has contributed to this shift, exacerbated by

unregulated budget non-starred hotels, non-registered villas and rental houses, driven by budget market demand.

With supply increase continuing over the coming years, budget and traditionalstyled accommodation will struggle with occupancy rates and may be forced to close. They are overwhelmed by the flood of professionally-managed, international competitors, which generally maintain healthy occupancy rates.

As many accommodation providers have been forced to offer lower room rates to attract more guests, this has now led to a price war: slashed room rates and accommodation packages are good news for visitors, but not for operators or the island’s image. The Jakarta Post quoted chairman Ngurah Wijaya of Indonesian Tourism Business Association blaming price wars on hotel overbuilding facilitated by the regional administration’s lax control. Meanwhile, the government’s plans to impose hotel price standardisation still await approval.

“Excess supply has surpassed demand. We’ve no other solution than to stop building new accommodation facilities and intensify promotion until the situation improves,” Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati, chairman of Bali Tourism

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISMEDIA.

bali

InterContinental Bali.

Promotion Board (BPPD) was quoted. Like many tourism industry players, Mr Tjokorda expressed concern over the island’s postmajor international events that saw a frenzy of accommodation and MICE facilities built in anticipation.

Solid foundations Generally speaking, upscale, wellestablished hotels seem to be faring better.

Amid price competitions amongst hotels elsewhere, luxury accommodation in Nusa Dua Complex (BTDC) have managed to increase room rates and experience higher occupancy rates, compared to average figures for Bali’s star-rated hotels. BTDC data indicated that average occupancy rates, although fluctuating, hovered around 70 per cent in 2013.

Repeat guests, top-notch brand resorts with sound MICE facilities and major international events regularly hosted in secure, beachfront surrounds are contributing factors: Ida Bagus Purwa Sidemen, executive director, Bali Chapter

of PHRI, was quoted in the media, “Major events in Bali helped boost occupancy levels, but mainly for Nusa Dua hotels around the event venues, not so much for other parts of Bali.”

Other upmarket hotels in tourism hotspots such as Seminyak, Bukit, and Jimbaran are also experiencing business as usual – or better.

“Despite an increase in room supply and meeting spaces, post-events like APEC and WTO, we’ve seen a consistent increase in demand and numbers at InterContinental Bali for 2014,” declares Dewi Karmawan, public relations. “We’ve seen substantial MICE growth and 100 per cent increase in international weddings in 2013.”

“Only the strong will survive in this heavily competitive environment,” AYANA’s Mr Habermacher says.

“Experiencing high occupancy rates, we’re in a strong position to expand in the MICE market and accommodate large MICE groups, opening our on-site five-star RIMBA Jimbaran late 2013.” m

MPF GIVES YOU MORE THAN JUST A MEETING VENUE. WITH ITS 1,000 SQM SPACE, THREE SEPARATE BOARDROOMS, FLOOR TO CEILING GLASS WINDOWS THAT CAN BE FULLY OPEN, AND A PANORAMIC VIEW OF THE INDIAN OCEAN, MPF OFFERS TO MANAGE THE PERFECT FUNCTION WITH A STUNNING VIEW...

For futher information and reservations, please contact: GRAND NIKKO BALI Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, PO BOX 18, Nusa Dua, Bali - 80363, Indonesia Tel: +62-361-773-377 Fax: +62-361-774-060 E-mail: sales@grandnikkobali.com URL: http://www.grandnikkobali.com

micenet Asia

29

case study

Sister resorts show star power at APEC

By Samantha Coomber

Event overview

30

NAME OF EVENT

APEC CEO Summit 2013

ORGANISER

Indika Energy, whose president director Wishnu Wardhana was chairman of APEC Business Advisory Council 2013 and chairman of APEC CEO Summit 2013

type

Conference

VENUE

AYANA Resort and Spa Bali

WHEN

October 1-5, 2013

PAX

400

BUDGET

Undisclosed

micenet Asia

The APEC CEO Summit was held in Bali last year, and AYANA Resort and Spa Bali in Jimbaran was appointed an APEC Host Hotel after launching new MICE facilities in early 2013. The APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) CEO Conference was attended by Indonesian government ministers and CEOs from some of the world’s largest private and public corporations, including Mistubishi, Fedex, Chevron, Freeport, Caterpillar, and Indonesia’s state-owned oil company Pertamina and Bank of Indonesia. The conference was an opportunity for these CEOs to share issues affecting their industry and trade and to highlight common issues placed on the agenda for further discussion at the APEC Summit. It was also attended by 170 Young Entrepreneurs of the Year who presented ideas to the conference,

and almost 300 spouses who got involved through the Spouse Programme, which included setting up a “market” in the Ballroom Courtyard where entrepreneurs could market their products.

Execution The event involved six months of planning and coordination, and relied upon the opening of a new sister hotel RIMBA Jimbaran Bali in early September to accommodate all participants on-site at the conference venue. The conference was held at AYANA’s new MICE facilities, including the extended Ballroom, new high-tech classroom-style amphitheatre, meeting rooms, and VIP boardroom.

Accommodation was split between AYANA and RIMBA, with RIMBA accommodating 200 participants.

case study

Welcome AYANA’s catering team arranged a Balinese cultural theme for the Welcome Dinner, held at the resort’s cliff-edged lawn with spectacular views across Jimbaran Bay and Indian Ocean. Participants gathered at sundown to enjoy AYANA’s famous sunset views and a traditional Kecak dance performance, before tucking into an extensive buffet that showcased the finest Asian and Western cuisine.

check-points (at the main entrance, business centre, and ballroom frontage).

Challenges & triumphs The main challenge was ensuring RIMBA opened on time, which also turned out a triumph. The resort’s management remained committed and ensured the event ran smoothly with all participants accommodated on-site, attending the conference at AYANA’s new MICE facilities.

Set-Up

Event outcome

The conference involved the main event at the Ballroom, as well as break-out meetings for the ABAC committee, VIPs, Spouse Programme and SME Young Entrepreneurs. It required high-tech AV equipment and VIP set-up for top-level CEOs and government ministers, and the highest level of security, which included 24-hour police security and three screening

This event strengthened the property’s position as Bali’s newest MICE destination.

“With the combined facilities of two resorts, AYANA and RIMBA, we’re now in a position to target much larger conferences and weddings and to support group accommodation requests of up to 350 rooms,” stated AYANA general manager, Roger Habermacher. m

micenet Asia

31

case study

Soap for Hope station.

MBS pulls off carbon-neutral forum NAME OF EVENT

Responsible Business Forum 2013

ORGANISER

Global Initiatives, Eco-Business, World Wildlife Fund (WWF), World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) for Business Coalition

VENUE

Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

OCCUPIED SPACES

Hibiscus Ballroom and Heliconia Ballroom

WHEN

November 25-26, 2013

PAX

Over 500

BUDGET

Undisclosed

32

micenet Asia

Event overview The Responsible Business Forum (RBF) 2013 is a two-day forum bringing together business leaders, NGOs, and policy makers from Southeast Asia to accelerate business solutions and policy frameworks to increase sustainability.

Held at Marina Bay Sands (MBS) for the second time, the forum themed “Transformation, Growth and the Green Economy” saw delegates discussing commitments and policy recommendations to increase sustainability across six sectors – agriculture and forestry, palm oil, consumer good, financial services, building and urban infrastructure, and energy.

RBF saw the attendance of Singapore’s Minister for Water and Environment, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan as guest of honour.

This forum also discussed how responsible event planning can have a

positive legacy by reducing the environmental impact of the event’s operations. As the venue, Marina Bay Sands played a bigger role in championing sustainable event planning to create a 100 per cent carbon-neutral event.

Execution A fully carbon-neutral event like RBF involved meticulous planning in every aspect, spanning from sustainable menus, recycling, waste management, to engaging the delegates to give back to the community through the property’s Sands ECO360 programme.

Set-up and environmental settings MBS introduced advanced and in-room movement sensors in the meeting rooms.

Set to 25 degrees Celsius, the rooms also took on ECO360 settings such as no pre-setting of paper, mints and water at

case study tables and the use of water dispensers and glasses to reduce wastage. No chair covers were used, and the backdrop was made from sustainable material.

F&B MBS offered its first customised vegetarian menu from Green Harvest Menus, which included ingredients and produce sourced locally and from Southeast Asia to reduce food miles. All condiments were served in bulk, and there were no pre-pour beverages on the tables so as to avoid wastage.

Waste management Food waste was weighed to ensure all of it was sustainably disposed of, and sorted and recycled wherever possible. Noncontaminated food waste was composted, and cooking oil used in menus recycled.

After the event, an Impact Statement illustrated sustainable event metrics such as energy and water consumption, recycling rate, carbon emissions and some highlights of sustainable initiatives.

Helping the community Delegates were invited to join MBS’ green movement by participating in Soap for Hope, an activity which collects leftover liquid shampoo and soap from hotel rooms on a regular basis for those in need. During the forum, Soap for Hope stations were set up for delegates to pour leftover soap into containers which would be distributed to Food from the Heart, MBS’ charity partner. Unconsumed bread from the event was also donated to Food from the Heart.

Challenges and triumphs With a request for menus to be fully vegetarian for the event, the chef faced the challenge of having to create new sustainable menus with limited food supply options.

The weighing of food waste involved the MBS team working closely with the organisers to estimate attendee numbers at each meal, so as to limit wastage.

communicate principles of sustainability, where everyone was working towards achieving improvement with the same end goal in mind.

“Sustainability is an ongoing process and I hope more organisations will come on board to adopt the ISO20121 management system standard in their events.” m

Event outcome Through this forum, MBS became the first MICE facility in Singapore to adopt the Singapore Tourism Board’s recently announced sustainability guidelines for the MICE industry. Sustainability Showcase Asia chairman, Ken Hickson, thought RBF was a great platform to

On-site recycling bins.

Working with Marina Bay Sands was an extremely positive experience. Given the sustainability focus of our event, Marina Bay Sands was the ideal partner through their own operational commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and providing a high quality venue that was the perfect setting for senior policy maker and business leaders.

ANTHONY GOURLAY GLOBAL INITIATIVES CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Vegetarian items from the Green Harvest Menu.

Singapore’s Minister for Water and Environment, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.

micenet Asia

33

meet & eat singapore

By Gina Sin

Jamie delivers With more than 30 restaurants around the world under his belt in just five years, Jamie Oliver’s first restaurant in Asia oozes rustic charm in typical Jamie’s Italian-style, with bespoke furniture handmade by local craftsmen and the cosy chic design by UK-based award-

winning agency Blacksheep. Their pastas are made every morning, with ingredients sourced for freshness. From wild truffle risotto and veal flash steak to the cured meat platter and panna cotta, the menu is tweaked every four months while set menus are customisable for private events. The casual, fuss-free dining concept allows up to 210 seats indoors and 40 seats outdoors, and its alfresco space can be transformed for an event of up to 100 standing guests.

The restaurant also has a private dining room which sits up to 14 people.

However, indoor dining spaces can only be partially booked and must be booked at least two weeks in advance.

W: www.jamiesitalian.sg T: +65 6733 5500

New face of Indochine The recently-revamped IndoChine at The Forbidden City, Clarke Quay still has its entrance flanked by terracotta warriors.

But the new interior continues to live up to its award-winning designs synonymous with prominent events and internationallyfamed parties, with chefs delivering delicacies that are both nutritious and full of medicinal benefits. Greeting guests from the river entrance, the Anastasia Lounge is decked out in red chandeliers and baroque-style black and silver furniture that takes up half of the first floor, separated from sister outlet, Bianca Supper Club by soundproof folding doors

and glass windows. Ideal for product launches and presentations with ceilingto-floor projector screens, both rooms can accommodate 250-300 people each.

For an elegant blend of old-world oriental charm and modern sophistication, Restaurant Madame Butterfly serves up contemporary Chinese cuisine with Indochina influences. The restaurant extends to a balcony overlooking the courtyard and garden into Clarke Quay, seating up to 180 guests. Intimate functions of fewer than 50 guests may opt for the Oscar Whisky & Zigar Bar, its chesterfield-

inspired luxurious black leather couches and hunting trophies giving the space a masculine vibe unlike other parts of the Forbidden City. It is also home to the rarest whiskies from around the world, and stocked with fine Cuban cigars.

W: www.indochine-group.com T: +65 6557 6266

Siamese flavours on a hill Preserving the milieu of a stand-alone historic colonial bungalow amid a vast green surrounding, Tamarind Hill is nestled atop the forested Labrador Nature Reserve, perfectly reminiscent of the original Tamarind Hill in Kuala Lumpur. Its ambience an unmistakable rustic-luxe Asian character and flair, the restaurant serves a traditional and contemporary Siamese cuisine just minutes away from the city. It also

34

micenet Asia

boasts a backdrop of a wide green lawn that opens out to a sea view. For corporate events, comprehensive plans are available to cater to specific requirements, including customised menus, set-up and layout flexibility, and entertainment. Tamarind Hill can accommodate up to 130 seated guests and a 300 standing.

E: steeven@tamarindrestaurants.com T: +65 6278 6364 m

seoul

triple jump

ambitions Hungry to dominate the MICE marketplace, Seoul gets into an Olympic mindset by setting an athletic expansion target by 2020. By Robert Cotter

When the 2020 Olympic Games were recently awarded to Tokyo, it was a stark reminder for budding young athletes all over the world: they had seven years to get into top shape and reach the sporting world’s pinnacle.

Not far west of the 2020 host city, the South Korean capital of Seoul was getting into the Olympic mood by setting itself an equally athletic target over the same time 36

micenet Asia

frame. Unveiling the Seoul MICE Master Plan at the 2013 Seoul International Business Advisory Council (SIBAC) in October 2013, the city declared its ambition to jump from its total 60,000 sqm of meeting floor space to a staggering 180,000 sqm by 2020 — effectively tripling current provisions.

In Olympic terms, the Seoul MICE industry has moved into full training mode

for its floor space triple jump, and with the Master Plan, it expects no less than a place among the international MICE destination medals.

Measured approach Prompting Seoul’s triple jump ambitions was some guiding research undertaken on behalf of the city, which in suggesting that Seoul was punching well above its weight,

seoul The MICE industry is recognised as an economic driver that is good for the city of Seoul and therefore it’s a positive thing. If we’re going to continue to grow we need expansion in infrastructure and we need expansion in professionalism.

MAUREEN O’CROWLEY SEOUL CONVENTION BUREAU VICE-PRESIDENT

Seoul’s world-class MICE infrastructure; expansion of attraction through seeking potential demand for MICE events in Seoul; expansion of added value services for MICE events; and reinforcement of the local MICE industry and its professionals.”

Hop, skip, jump

Seoul’s skyline.

acted as the catalyst for accelerating the Master Plan.

“McKinsey, the global specialised consulting group, suggested in 2012 that the tourism and MICE industry should be developed extensively as Seoul’s future growth engines,” explained Park Won Soon, the Mayor of Seoul. “Seoul’s meeting and exhibition space is only 30 per cent of the average of the top five, so

Seoul needs to triple it. The goal is to expand facilities in the metropolitan area, Yeongdong area and Magok area in three separate stages by 2020.”

“The vision for Seoul [in doing this] is to become a leading global MICE city and there are four policy tasks involved in the Master Plan to develop the MICE industry in Seoul,” Mayor Park continued. “These are: development and expansion of

Implementing these policy tasks will be a key responsibility of the Seoul Convention Bureau (SCB), steered by vice-president Maureen O’Crowley, with the requisite restructuring and commitment to budget already in place to ensure they will be in a position to achieve them.

“There is a specific reference in the Master Plan to expand our scope, so it is great to have this acknowledgment and support from the government,” Ms O’Crowley said. “The first step is that our team will be expanded to create two teams with a dual focus on both planning and bidding. So this will give us more people working in this regard, with further expansion to occur incrementally over the next five years, including potentially into the area of research.”

“We’re absolutely delighted to have all of this support and the go-ahead to move forward,” she continued. “The MICE industry is recognised as an economic driver that is good for the city of Seoul and therefore it’s a positive thing. If we’re going to continue to grow, we need expansion in infrastructure and in professionalism.”

The first wave of this expansion is set to be delivered in the metropolitan area in the near future, with two stunning new facilities – the Zaha Hadid-designed Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) and the micenet Asia

37

seoul Seoul’s meeting and exhibition space is only 30 per cent of the average of the top five, so Seoul needs to triple it. The goal is to expand facilities in the metropolitan area, Yeongdong area and Magok area in three separate stages by 2020.

PARK WON SOON MAYOR OF SEOUL

Rendering of Floating Island.

‘Floating Island’ complex next to the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain Bridge – set to come online in spring 2014. Building on this is also the plan for a new convention centre at Seoul Station, which altogether will provide an extra 40,000 sqm of floor space by 2018.

From then to 2020, the area around COEX (in the Yeongdong area, taking in the adjoining 1988 Olympics main stadium of the Jamsil sports complex and other adjacent sites) as well as COEX itself, will be converted and merged into a gigantic, fullyequipped MICE complex, adding over 80,000 sqm of additional MICE space. As yet awaiting final design, in saying that “Seoul will look to the complexes and facilities of Singapore’s MICE infrastructure when preparing its new MICE infrastructure”, Mayor Park has indicated that a facility to rival the best in the world will be sought for this stage of the expansion plans.

Beyond 2020, there are further plans for MICE facilities supporting industrial research and development to the southwest Magok area of the city, considered invaluable in boosting South Korea’s increasing position as the world’s leading IT and telecommunications state.

Record jump to make the podium As for the outcome of this triple jump training, Seoul has set its sights on covering a lot of ground in a short time through its Master Plan.

“Seoul will aim to become a global 38

micenet Asia

centre of knowledge and economy and a leading global city of innovation, with the latest information and techniques communicated and shared through the MICE industry,” stated Mayor Park.

“The important points of future economic development are knowledge, creativity, dissemination of information, communication and convergence,” he continued. “The MICE industry will function as the platform for the development of these factors that

enhances the economy. If this goal is met, it can be stated that the MICE industry will bring growth in the economic, social and cultural areas of this city and in turn will improve the very lives of the citizens of Seoul.”

It will, at the same time, improve Seoul’s international MICE destination ranking. Having been placed a consistent fifth in the UIA rankings since 2011, dedicating itself to this rigorous triple jump training should ensure Seoul takes its place on the podium in the 2020 Olympic year. The only question is whether it will be taking bronze, silver or, as the key players of the Seoul MICE industry will all be hoping for, outright gold. m

Seoul will aim to become a global centre of knowledge and economy and a leading global city of innovation, with the latest information and techniques communicated and shared through the MICE industry.

PARK WON SOON MAYOR OF SEOUL

Mayor of Seoul, Park Won Soon, unveiling the Seoul MICE Master Plan in October 2013.

south korea

Preparing soybeans in Jookjangyeon.

Food for thought Want to spice up a meeting? Korea’s variety of traditional, nutritious and prophylactic flavours will ignite the taste buds of delegates and keep them satiated. By Robert Cotter One of the keys to unlocking a successful event is ensuring that delegates are able to remain attentive and productive throughout. The main ingredients to make this happen are the food and beverages on hand to fuel the brain and body.

For South Korea, one of today’s leading lights of the global MICE industry, providing the right F&B is a core part of great events. On a recent Korea Food Foundation tour, it was evident that sourcing the right food means not just how it tastes, but also the quality and how good it is for you.

Starting from the south-eastern coastal town of Pohang on the East Sea, a short drive into the surrounding countryside leads to the stunning, orchard and mountain-wrapped farm of Jookjangyeon, where the ultimate brain food – soybeans – are prepared and

pasted with astonishing care before being dried, spiced and fermented in an army of clay pots that are ubiquitous throughout South Korea. The end result is a premium, vintage sauce, aged for anything from six months to a number of years, and fit to grace the food at any event dining table.

On the road north from Pohang towards Seoul, an incredible, food-filled stop-off is at Andong and the nearby UNESCO world heritage listed Hahoe village. Following an evening of Korean dining at Andong’s traditional Pungjeon restaurant, which micenet Asia

39

south korea A hanok in Bukchondaek.

Chic take on Korean cuisine at Jungsikdang, Seoul.

consists of tapas-style Korean dishes offering an endless stream of taste sensations, the banquet can be slept off in a hanok (a traditional Korean house) at the historic Bukchondaek on heated floors just like the ancestors have done for centuries past – all of which makes it a perfect incentive trip into real Korean life.

Back in the capital of Seoul, there are the myriad restaurant and food offerings that can be expected in a modern metropolis. Korean food, however, has some unique dining twists, such as the

increasingly popular temple cuisine, which at the city’s renowned Sanchon restaurant serves up an entirely vegan Buddhist meal that is not only delicious, but also entirely satisfying for the carnivores amongst us. Showcasing that all is not traditional at the Korean table, the city’s chic Jungsikdang restaurant, with a sister outlet in New York, takes a very high-end modern spin on Korean ingredients to serve up amazing dishes.

Korean cuisine – or Hansik, as it is called – is so much more than the

bibimbap, barbecue and kimchi that are often associated with it. It is not only rich and varied in flavour and steeped in the country’s culture, but with the wide use of fermentation, has also been proven to be phenomenally healthy and naturally prophylactic. Being low-fat and with its five tastes covering the sensory spectrum, the wide range of beneficial amino acids in it has been found to prevent effectively everything from obesity to cancer. If ever a food brought more than just brain fuel to a good meeting, this is it.

Just as with Samsung and Gangnam, South Korea’s MICE industry has risen from relative obscurity some years back to achieve global prominence today. In the culinary world, its food is widely regarded as being the next big thing to follow suit, which means we can look forward to even tastier Korean events in the years ahead. m

Tapas-style traditional food in Pungjeon.

40

micenet Asia

Itinerary

Macau in 48 hours Thinking of a short but fulfilling visit to Macau?

Groups can consider an itinerary encompassing the best of Macau’s traditional, experiential, and luxurious facets.

Day one

Day two

Start the day with a Macau iPad Discovery. This treasure hunt will take place around the streets that form the World Heritage Historic Centre of Macau, as guests use the iPads to accomplish their missions.

For lunch, enjoy the view at Macau Tower 360°, Macau’s highest revolving restaurant. It takes one and a half hours for a complete spin, giving guests ample time to take in the views of the Pearl River Delta or panoramic cityscape while sampling an international buffet.

Try SkyDrumming in the afternoon, where delegates can participate in the exciting drumming session organised by the enthusiastic Human Rhythm instructor.

Guests will be under the supervision of an instructor who will take the group on a walking tour around the outer rim of the tower.

Before dinner, bring delegates to City of Dreams’ House of Dancing Water, the largest water-based extravaganza on the planet.

Have dinner at Sky 21 for an unforgettable experience of “Wine and Gourmet Casino”, where guests are entertained by actors dressed as croupiers/ dealers. Recreating an authentic casino setting without money involved, it is a new and different concept that will showcase Macau’s table games, wines, teas, cheeses, and more. The Sky 21 bar and restaurant offers both indoor and al fresco dining and drinking areas, providing a magnificent view of Macau’s evening skyline.

The day starts with a relaxing tai chi class, a form of exercise that has existed for over 2000 years.

The Chinese characters for tai chi can be translated as the ‘supreme ultimate force’, often associated with the concept of yin and yang.

Groups can then discover Macau’s culinary flavours with Macau Gourmet Discovery. It is the best way to learn about the Macanese history while sampling its fusion cuisine of Portuguese and Chinese influences.

Lunch will involve an introduction to Portuguese cuisine at Miramar Restaurant in Coloane. Chef André and his team will demonstrate their skills in the kitchen and give groups a taste of traditional dishes and beverages enjoyed by the Portuguese.

The afternoon will be dedicated to dragon boat racing, an activity that dates

back over 2000 years to the Chinese legend of Qu Yuan. Today it is one of the fastest-growing athletic events in the world. Dragon boat racing is not only fun, but also the perfect team-building exercise. To end the challenge, teams will have to perform a Haka dance while cheering on their fellow delegates competing in the race.

When the Portuguese arrived in Asia, they brought ingredients and culinary ideas from their African, South American, and Indian settlements, which were later adapted by the local Chinese to create a truly uniquely international cuisine. Groups will have dinner at Litoral, a traditional Macanese restaurant showcasing the best of this cuisine, a perfect end to the itinerary.

This itinerary was contributed by Macau-based DMC/PCO, DOC DMC MACAU LTD. Visit www.doc-dmcmacau.com or call +853 2872 3510 for more ideas. m

micenet Asia

41

australia

Brisbane gears up for G20

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, the official venue for G20.

As ‘Brisbane the beautiful’ readies itself for the 2014 G20 Leaders’ Summit in November, it’s time to assess just how big an impact the event will have on the city. By Lauren Arena In little over six months, the world’s leaders and prominent decision-makers will descend upon Brisbane for one of the most prestigious global meetings, catapulting the Queensland capital into the spotlight and potentially creating an enduring legacy for the city.

The Group of Twenty (G20) Leader’s Summit is a forum that assembles finance ministers and central bank governors from 20 major economies (19 countries plus the European Union), with attendees including heads of state and government such as US President, Barack Obama and UK Prime Minister, David Cameron.

Created as a response both to the financial crisis of 2007–2010 and a growing recognition that key emerging countries were not adequately included in global economic governance, the summit studies, reviews, and promotes high-level discussion around the global economy, financial regulation, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.

42

micenet Asia

Since the November 2011 Cannes G20, the meeting has been held annually, with Russia hosting the eighth summit in September 2013 and Turkey set to host the 10th summit in 2015.

At a G20 briefing seminar held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre in December, Brisbane lord mayor, councillor Graham Quirk discussed the pros and cons of hosting the global event in Brisbane and what it means for the city’s future.

“This is a once-in-a-generation chance for Brisbane to step up and take its place among the emerging new world cities of the 21st century,” Cr Quirk said.

“The G20 will be the biggest gathering of world leaders in Brisbane in our lifetime and for three days Brisbane will be the capital of the world.

“Everyone in Brisbane should be proud to host such an event and by the time the G20 is over I want the world to know that Brisbane is a rising star in the Asia Pacific and a key economic development hub.”

The G20 Summit is expected to pump more than AUD$100 million (US$88 million) into the local economy, attracting up to 4000 delegates and 3000 media representatives, as well as world leaders,

Everyone in Brisbane should be proud to host such an event and by the time the G20 is over I want the world to know that Brisbane is a rising star in the Asia Pacific and a key economic development hub.

COUNCILLOR GRAHAM QUIRK BRISBANE LORD MAYOR

australia

We need to broaden the story from ‘Brisbane the beautiful’ to ‘Brisbane the best in the world’ in order to create a physical lasting memory that will encourage the G20 community to come back well after the meeting has ended.

Brisbane skyline.

top advisors and CEOs who represent around 85 per cent of global GDP, more than 75 per cent of global trade and twothirds of the world’s population – all of whom are set to invest, trade and move Brisbane into the future.

“I have charged the city’s economic development board, Brisbane Marketing, to leverage the G20 through high-profile activities, thought-leadership forums, local and international campaigns and media activities,” Cr Quirk said.

As well as supporting local infrastructure and hotel investment (Four Points by Sheraton opens in the city in March and the iconic Chifley, which has undergone an extensive refurbishment, will reopen in June as the new generation NEXT Hotel), the Lord Mayor has also granted $500,000 of special funding to Brisbane Marketing’s core activities surrounding the summit.

These include an extension of the Choose Brisbane advertising programme through Asia and Europe; establishing the ‘Brisbane Global Café’ – a global virtual media centre that will bring together thought leaders from a range of disciplines and provide a platform for a series of events and conferences in the months leading up to the G20; carrying out training programmes for the city’s service and transport industry staff; and launching a series of ‘way-finding’ initiatives to help visitors easily find their way around the city.

The breakfast seminar, hosted by Brisbane Marketing, Brisbane Development Association and Business

South Bank, welcomed more than 400 local decision-makers across the corporate community and academia.

The comprehensive discussion panel included University of Toronto professor and co-director of the G20 Research Group, John Kirton; UBS senior adviser and B20 Sherpa, Robert Milliner; director general of the Queensland Premier and Cabinet, Jon Grayson; and Brisbane Airport Corporation CEO and managing director, Julieanne Alroe.

Sparking discussion, Professor Kirton warned that Brisbane must leverage its status as the G20 host city in the coming months in order to ensure a lasting legacy.

“We need to broaden the story from ‘Brisbane the beautiful’ to ‘Brisbane the best in the world’ in order to create a

JOHN KIRTON G20 RESEARCH GROUP CO-DIRECTOR

physical lasting memory that will encourage the G20 community to come back well after the meeting has ended.”

City identification will therefore play a major part in Brisbane Marketing’s international campaign, which will leverage the G20 through high-profile activities, thought-leadership forums, and media activities.

As of March 2013, 3000 billboards have been put up around the world announcing Brisbane as the new world city.

At the event Cr Quirk also announced a call for support from the corporate community to assist in the efforts of local, state and federal governments to help place Brisbane on the map.

“As a city we’re not very well known, so we all have a job to do.” m

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, the official venue for G20.

micenet Asia

43

trending

Beyond the ballroom From event-friendly restaurants and rooftop bars to restored sites, buyers are always on the search for venues that inspire.

By Kristie Thong

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

44

micenet Asia

trending The ever-discerning event planner today is on the search for unconventional venues that can bring their events to the next level. Familiar with spaces confined within four walls with high-tech AV and exceptional services, they are always on the look-out for beyond the ballroom concepts that offer the same quality of service and technology. These muchdesired spaces often contain a distinct personality and edge, be it through breathtaking views of a city skyline, signature F&B, or live entertainment to transform meetings into exceptional experiences.

“We constantly look for venues that are beyond what hotel ballrooms can offer us, because they are often overused and our customers are always asking for something different,” a sourcing specialist from an event management company based in Hong Kong tells micenet ASIA.

Encompassing magic Some of the most sought-after beyond the ballroom spaces come with a rich incentive and entertainment offering. The Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, with the theme park, two hotels, a dedicated conference centre, and multiple outdoor options, already offer a comprehensive package for event planners and corporate groups.

Adding to this is a variety of event-ready spaces within the theme park, allowing for uniquely-themed dinner events and more.

“Our inventory of unique event-ready venues has grown with the opening of three new themed areas – Toy Story Land, Grizzly Gulch, and Mystic Point, all of which provide exclusive access to event

groups as part of our land buy arrangements,” Hong Kong Disneyland Resort business solutions and events director, Martin Leung, says.

Alongside entertainment ranging from musicals, marching bands and on-site catering, companies can piggyback the resort’s seasonal calendar of activities to add another layer to the experience.

“Our Halloween celebrations (for example), where we created plenty of spooky fun and entertainment, allowed corporate guests to be the first to preview the seasonal attractions. As a result, our most recent Halloween celebration in 2013 delivered a three-fold increase in the number of companies choosing to host their events during this season,” Mr Leung says.

While park buyout events are commonplace for the resort, these arrangements allow corporates to engage staff and clients in a truly memorable way that is hard to replicate in venues elsewhere in the city.

“We received both local and international corporates from various sectors, including insurance, finance, telecommunication, retail, and catering,” he adds.

Sustainability is another hook at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. Mr Leung feels the resort’s environmental commitment has indirectly made it a better partner for corporate clients who are looking for venues that inspire.

Adhering to the Walt Disney Company’s fundamental ethic to think and act with the environment in mind, the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort has incorporated the commitment through functions ranging

As companies are becoming increasingly aware of the need to reduce their environmental footprint in business, our corporate clients appreciate our efforts to improve our environmental performance and are inspired to also act accordingly.

MARTIN LEUNG HONG KONG DISNEYLAND RESORT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS AND EVENTS DIRECTOR

from landscaping and waste recycling to a rainwater collection system and energy management. Also a founding member of the Hong Kong Green Purchasing Charter, the resort is committed to using sustainably manufactured resources such as postconsumer-recycled plastic shopping bags, wood furniture made of timber from well-managed forests, recycled or FSC paper for printing, and chemical-free cleaning fibers in hotel housekeeping.

Meeting amenities such as notepads and pencils are also made from recycled materials, and sustainable seafood is available upon request.

Mr Leung comments: “As companies are becoming increasingly aware of the need to reduce their environmental footprint in business, our corporate clients appreciate our efforts to improve our environmental performance and are inspired to also act accordingly.”

Dreamers Garden at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

micenet Asia

45

trending

Tiger Tavern at Tiger Beer Brewery, Singapore.

Brew works Tucked in a secluded western corner of Singapore is Tiger Beer Brewery, home of the local beer that has grown in stature over the years. The Asia Pacific Breweriesowned brewery comprises a brew house where six brands – ABC, Anchor, Barons Strong Brew, Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, Heineken, and Tiger – are brewed locally, a beer packing gallery, a tavern, and visitor centre. It is popular among corporate groups, with guided tours available for those interested in the beermaking and packaging process.

Besides educational tours, the Tiger Brewery provides an out-of-the-norm experience for events. Tiger Studio, a spacious meeting venue that can accommodate different seating arrangements, has a maximum capacity of 120 pax theatre-style and up to 100 for a five-feet roundtable seating arrangement.

With a high ceiling and full AV equipment, the studio is popular among corporate groups looking for a different venue in Singapore with a unique touch.

“A full-day meeting could end off with a Brewery Tour and a beer appreciation session,” a spokesperson for the brewery says.

Planners can also opt to use the Tiger Tavern for evening networking sessions, or for groups to unwind with food, drinks, and entertainment. Designed as an old English-style tavern with dark hues, lush green leather and polished brass rails, it can take up to 100 people and is also equipped with a karaoke system, pool 46

micenet Asia

table, dart board, and a basic sound system with two microphones.

“The Tiger Tavern is a perfect venue for corporate dinners and social gatherings, a timeless place, decorated in rich wood and leather, exuding an oldworld charm,” the spokesperson adds.

Old charm Some event planners are attracted to older venues that have been restored while keeping to their historical or cultural charm.

In this instance, the recently-restored Grand Postal Building in Bangkok may do the trick now with IMPACT chosen by Thailand Post in August 2013 to manage the historical building.

Located on Charoen Krung Road in Bangrak district, the building remains a centre for post and telecommunication

services but also serves as an event venue. Offering over 3000 sqm of events space over two levels, the Postal Heritage Hall on the ground floor spans 1054 sqm with a seating capacity of 576 classroomstyle and 440 banquet-style. Three midsized meeting rooms from 99-144 sqm – The Postcard, The Postal Theatre, and The Letter – are located on the third floor.

At the front of the building is a 1000sqm outdoor area also available for events. IMPACT has completed work on the Manorah Thai Restaurant on the ground floor, which seats up to 80 and caters for private events. Apart from authentic Thai cuisine prepared by a professional Thai chef, IMPACT also offers F&B services at the venue.

IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., Ltd managing director, Paul Kanjanapas, said investment pumped in will reach more than 100 million Baht (US$3.2 million) over the next few years.

The space is ideal for “corporates, the government, and private individuals in or nearby the city centre who are looking for a ‘different’ experience in a convenient location for a venue option”, Mr Kanjanapas says.

On new waters Existing venues aside, countries are always paving the way for new spaces. In Sydney, a leading events and hospitality firm Dockside Group recently received development consent to build an event venue on an anchored floating pontoon in the heart of Darling Harbour. Opening in

Grand Postal Building, Bangkok.

trending

Dockside Pavillion at Darling Harbour, Sydney.

mid-2014, the Dockside Pavilion at Darling Harbour is part of a business activation strategy due to a redevelopment plan that will see the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre shut for three years.

The Pavilion, with an anticipated sleek and contemporary design created by internationally-renowned fabric architect Warwick Bell of Fabric Structure Systems, will be able to cater for up to 1440 seated guests and 2000 standing.

Dockside Pavilion will be a unique venue to watch, especially during the closure of the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre as it fills the gap in the market prior to the opening of ICC, Sydney, the ICC Exhibition and Theatre in 2016.

Dockside Group managing director, Christopher Drivas, says: “With capabilities to host numerous and diverse events,

including conferences, business events, charity gala events, festivals and public events, the Dockside Pavilion will offer event organisers an exciting new option.”

With capabilities to host numerous and diverse events, including conferences, business events, charity gala events, festivals and public events, the Dockside Pavilion will offer event organisers an exciting new option.

CHRISTOPHER DRIVAS DOCKSIDE GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR

Venue with a view Venues situated on building rooftops or high altitudes are also in great demand when they allow for private events with the right mix of F&B and entertainment. The panoramic views add to the exclusivity of these spaces.

Macau’s SKY 21 is one such venue.

Located on the 21st and 22nd floors of AIA Tower, it offers event planners a variety of spaces boasting breathtaking views with upmarket Asian and authentic European cuisines.

A SKY 21 spokesperson says: “Since opening [more than a year ago], we have catered for over 100 events, including gala dinners, team-building activities, product launches, and seminars.”

The 21st-floor Kitchen in the SKY, with a Zen-inspired interior with a sleek and intimate design, offers a pan-Asian menu from executive chef Daniel Brolese. The space can take up to 150 cocktail-style and 100 seated guests, along with a private 14-seat room. On the 22nd floor, the SKY B upscale bar lounge can take up to 200 for cocktail receptions, while SKY Life, ideal for after-parties, can take up to 75. m

Key Contacts: Hong Kong Disneyland Resort www.hongkongdisneyland.com Tiger Brewery Tour www.tigerbrewerytour.com.sg Grand Postal Building www.impact.co.th Dockside Group www.docksidegroup.com.au

Sky 21, Macau.

SKY 21 Macau www.sky21macau.com

micenet Asia

47

technology

Digital marketing – does it work?

Ray Shaw ray@im.com.au

The study found that a mix of online (paid search results – AdWords, website and search engine optimisation, social media, email, and affiliate advertising programmes) and offline (print, radio, TV, tradeshows, telemarketing, and direct mail), still produces the best results – especially in the meetings and events industry where new markets are constantly needed to replace attendee churn and burn.

“Using a mix of on-and-offline marketing methods may sound obvious, but the majority of Australian events cut costs by not producing a hard-copy registration brochure or other printed branding material – online alone usually results in less effective marketing,” says Jan Shaw, director of operations at global meeting and event management agency MCI Australia.

“I know half my marketing is wasted – I just don’t know which half.”

The October 2013 study found that 39 per cent of the total marketing budget is now spent online, with 73 per cent of the 330 respondents indicating that they would spend more online in 2014 – reducing offline spending to compensate.

Smaller businesses (<$2M turnover) admitted using online solely because it was more affordable than offline.

Using something because it is cheaper, especially if its efficacy is unproven, is irrational.

48

micenet Asia

A new Australian and New Zealand survey by First Point Research and Consulting indicates that reliance on online marketing alone is high risk.

Online is a misunderstood area Those same businesses admitted that they: • Lacked a clear understanding of, or education in, online marketing techniques • Lacked in-house online software development capabilities • Did not have a clear understanding of its return on investment or had no way to measure ROI • Had difficulty finding and retaining online savvy staff • Had a real fear of failure in the online arena The study showed that 84 per cent of businesses used email sent to their existing database as the primary online tool; 81 per cent had tried social media; 60 per cent had used affiliate-advertising programmes and 55 per cent paid search (AdWords). However, in the absence of tangible ROI indicators, few could prove any online approach was working.

The top three offline marketing methods were: print (82 per cent), trade shows/conferences (65 per cent), and direct mail (59 per cent). Interestingly, trade shows/conferences and direct mail were well supported with 85 per cent saying that these were effective and measurable.

ROI is unclear Seventy three per cent of marketers used website traffic as an indicator of any online campaign’s marketing success – enticing a user to click through to the website – and 20 per cent do not measure at all!

Unless you can tie online marketing to a measurable indicator like leads confirmed, orders/registrations placed, tickets sold, cost savings over offline (taking into account that online can be heavily labour intensive), then the obvious conclusion is that online alone is a waste of time and money. Bigger businesses with the budget to invest in a broader basket of marketing tools are the main beneficiaries of online.

The solution is…

The survey was a revelation – businesses are using online without a clue to real costs, let alone if it generates sales.

My opinion is that the exodus from offline to online is dangerous for the meetings and events industry.

Prophetically I wrote this article just after Christmas. I received, and instantly deleted, dozens of environmentally responsible, yet soulless digital Christmas cards. A few days later, I had no recollection who they were from – online does not ‘stick’ like other marketing can.

technology

Online is not about what channels you use but what you do with the data you gain. For example, if you are using email marketing, you need to use analytics to see what response you get from where (reach mapping); predictive analysis (what happens if you do more or less marketing); profiling (what personalised content to send that elicits a response); IP lookup/ monitoring (to know if it is being read), and so much more. You need different campaigns for consumer mobile devices – where so many emails are hastily read and dispatched – as well as business desktops.

You should use a healthy mix of offline (traditional) and online methods because the world still has some conservatives that

read newspapers or go to conferences and tradeshows.

You need to stop dabbling just because others are doing so and start understanding how to use this exciting medium properly. Face the facts: online is still very new and there are few true experts – and chances are you are not one of them!

The survey was sponsored by Sitecore (www.sitecore.net) – a global leader in customer engagement/ management and digital marketing software. Sitecore services Australian and global customers and knows about digital marketing – the art of finding and delighting customers, increasing loyalty, and driving revenue.

Sitecore’s AIDA marketing performance optimisation technology simultaneously collects, evaluates, manages, and analyses customer intelligence from patterns, behaviours and decisions gathered across multiple channels, and then offers immediately actionable insights and analytics that helps marketers maximise the results from marketing programmes.

I am not suggesting that every PCO or event manager call Sitecore but it may not hurt to see how it could expand your online community, build more event loyalty, generate higher demand, engage your audience, and result in better value from your online activities. m micenet Asia

49

we are y

Art of responsibility Johnny Tse and Jenny Lie.

How did you begin your career in events?

I began working along the front lines of hospitality after I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in tourism. Prior to graduation, I did a three-month internship at Jenny Lie Event Management (now called JLEM) where I assisted the event officer with tasks such as searching for potential quality suppliers, making charts and graphics, and inputting data. After graduation, I returned to JLEM and am now a senior event officer. My responsibilities include administrative work as well as assisting management with event operations duties such as planning, liaising with vendors and clients, and on-site support. While there are more responsibilities now, I understand how important the duties of a trainee truly are.

What do you like about working in events?

I like working in the events industry because there are things you pick up quickly, such as learning to be independent. I learn new things every day, and it is an important part of my personal development. Networking also helps improve my market knowledge and enhances my ability to handle daily tasks in life.

What are some challenges that you face 50

micenet Asia

Hong Kong-based JLEM’s senior event officer, Johnny Tse, now understands the importance of tasks assigned to him when he was a trainee.

as a senior event officer? Are any specific to your age?

When I was a trainee, I felt my tasks were considered minor and wouldn’t affect the company’s performance. When I came back to JLEM, my responsibilities were assigned to me and there was still room for mistakes.

After learning the ropes for two years and subsequently promoted to senior event officer two years later (last October), I am learning how to think further ahead, make important and tactful decisions that will not compromise any event executions but ensure the different suppliers and partners are assigned the right tasks at the right time.

What do you think the events industry in Hong Kong needs that it currently lacks?

• New blood from Generation Y The demand for events in Hong Kong and Macau has been growing, but a lot of great event planners have changed industries as the MICE industry may sometimes require overtime. There is a need for the government to promote MICE to Generation Y to try attract new blood in the market.

• Good service quality Delivering good quality and service to all clients is a fundamental principle of MICE, which helps increase job satisfaction and motivation among service providers. This leads to greater sustainability of services. m

FROM THE MANAGER Johnny is a very special and mature Generation Y employee. The maturity of young employees helps them remain motivated even when things go wrong, and be willing to shoulder full responsibility to handle anything that’s required to make events successful.

It’s often appreciated when stronger employees dare take on challenges, and his flexibility and concern for others is a very special trait that I don’t often see in our industry.

On Generation Y: Be flexible and try to find reasons behind something that has to be done, rather than simply doing it because it was instructed. By thinking about the reason behind the job, you’ll understand the business more.

JENNY LIE GENERAL MANAGER OF JLEM

THE VENUE SOURCING SOLUTION micenet’s definitive and fuss-free venue directory for professional event planners in Asia

• In collaboration with American Express Meetings and Events • In-depth focus of 13 destinations in Asia • Comprehensive listings of MICE hotels and venues • Unique itinerary ideas from reputable DMCs • Powerful online presence with real-time updates

Contact Charline Wong at charline@micenet.asia or +65 6337 8781 for more information or to request a free copy.

For latest venue updates, news and promotions, visit the web venue directory

www.plannersguide.com.sg

opinion

Social media: We need a plan DIRECTOR, JAPA

Meeting planners should always draw up clear objectives and strategies before incorporating social media into events, says Danielle Puceta from American Express.

As the usage of social media grows rapidly throughout the world, meeting planners are considering the many options available for integrating social media into events.

According to the American Express 2104 Global Meetings and Events Forecast (the ‘Forecast’) meeting planners and hoteliers surveyed across the world reported an increased interest in the use of social media and meeting-specific mobile apps.

According to research from Google’s Our Mobile Planet (2012) featured in the Forecast, in many countries including Australia, Canada, United Kingdom and the United States, over 50 per cent of smartphone users access social media on a daily basis. It is part of our everyday lives. As such, digital and social media are now an integral part of most marketing strategies due to cost-effectiveness, reach, and the ability to target specific audiences.

A social media presence at a meeting or event can range from something as simple as an event-related Twitter hashtag

with live post feeds, to an event-specific app, or incorporating technology such as near field communication to enable attendees to connect and exchange information with each other by touching electronic devices.

Key considerations for determining the use of social media within a meeting include: attendee makeup, whether information shared is public or private, desire to promote the event publicly, and whether you have someone on hand to respond to or manage commentary, which is recommended in most instances.

Before a meeting, social media might be used to promote the event and build anticipation. In some instances, a specific group can be created in advance to share thought leadership and create a sense of community. During an event, meeting owners might use social media to register attendees, as well as collect and evaluate candid feedback. A Twitter hashtag can be created and tweets can be posted live on screens.

Using mechanics such as these can be a

DANIELLE PUCETA AMERICAN EXPRESS MEETINGS & EVENTS

One very important consideration is allocating the appropriate resources to have a staff member monitor the various social media outlets during an event to ensure confidential information is not being distributed to external sources and everything posted is within the spirit of the event.”

52

micenet Asia

really inexpensive but great way to interact with attendees and create conversation. They can even be used to extend the meeting experience to non-attendees.

There is a lot of opportunity for social media to add value to events but there are also potential risks involved. With any technology trend or gadget, it is easy to get carried away with the technology without really considering the return-oninvestment. As with all meetings-related marketing activities, we need to have clear objectives in place before devising social media strategies, be mindful of the nature of the audience, and take into account the social media policies of the organisations involved.

One very important consideration is allocating the appropriate resources to have a staff member monitor the various social media outlets during an event to ensure confidential information is not being distributed to external sources and everything posted is within the spirit of the event.

As the use of social media continues to rise in our personal lives, meeting planners will face greater pressure to incorporate these technologies into their events. The available tools and ease of use are also growing; and as we head into 2014 we need to consider social media as a routine component of the planning process. m

career strategies

Time matters ANDREW CHAN ACI HR SOLUTIONS CEO

Company loyalty and long-term employment tenure are no longer important for many employees. How is this viewed in the eyes of future employers?

Days of long employment tenures are fast diminishing from the workforce. The loyalty factor from both employees and organisations has been equally diluted, especially during uncertain economic times, or when employers need to satisfy shareholders through retrenchment exercises that are quickly becoming a norm in corporate HR culture.

Companies offering career development programmes stand a far better chance of retaining staff, especially Generation Y employees.

Career development strategies ensure employees are given opportunities to grow within the right professional environment, thus increasing the chances of staying within the company.

In the age of shorter employment tenures, job seekers will need more effort impressing managers who are still looking for some form of longevity in their hires.

Employers will look at the complete employment history, such as positions held and/or promotions, and analyse the candidate’s achievements even if it is a short tenure. However, it will be hard to justify any real achievements over the course of one year (if this has been a consistent pattern in a candidate’s career) because most employers still look for some form of longevity from their potential hires. Candidates who find themselves with a few short tenures will need to emphasise their achievements clearly to get over this hurdle.

Should managers expect employees to stay for a certain length of time?

How can they improve staff retention rates?

Employers certainly do expect some form of ROI when it comes to talent within their organisations, and tenure of less than two years can be considered a failure in achieving that. Employers, however, will need to do their part to ensure they achieve their hiring objectives, as it has been reported that 60 per cent of staff will leave within three years in a tight labour pool. A company’s only chance of retaining staff on a longer term is by investing in a career development programme across all levels.

Companies offering career development programmes stand a far better chance of retaining staff, especially Generation Y employees. Career development strategies ensure employees are given opportunities to grow within the right professional environment, thus increasing the chances of staying within the company.

Should employees who move on during the course of probation state the brief employment period on their résumé and/or LinkedIn? A full-time permanent position with a signed employment contract, however brief, should be stated in the résumé but not necessarily on LinkedIn. While some candidates treat employment decisions as trial and error, it is a serious matter that should be reflected accurately on a person’s résumé and employment history.

Any anomalies can pose negative consequences if information is found to be untrue at a later stage.

Candidates can choose to omit any part-time, contract or ad hoc work unrelated to the chosen industry or position from the CV, but the gaps should never be concealed by changing the dates of employment records. m micenet Asia

53

venue update BANGKOK POWER Thailand – Integral to the King Power Duty Free Complex, Pullman Bangkok King Power is a five-star resort hotel located in the heart of Bangkok. With easy access to the BTS Skytrain and expressway, transfer to and from Suvarnabhumi airport is approximately 30 minutes, while Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link – Phayathai Station is a short walk away.

The hotel offers complimentary highspeed Wi-Fi connection throughout the hotel and all 366 guest rooms. A MICEcentric hotel, its 14 vibrant-coloured, high-

end meeting rooms with natural sunlight are ideal for seminars and functions of varying sizes. The second floor offers eight meeting rooms with a unique meeting room concept on the sixth. The Infinity Ballroom, spanning

520 sqm with a seven-metre-high ceiling, can host an event for up to 600 guests.

W: www.pullmanbangkokkingpower. com

A GEM BY THE SEA

Singapore – Shangri-la’s Rasa Sentosa Resort and Spa, Singapore has launched a new event centre, the latest addition to its selection of 15 function spaces.

Measuring 322 sqm, Atmosphere by the Sea is a contemporary setting with a 54

micenet Asia

minimalist take, with a predominant use of glass windows to showcase a seascape amid tropical greenery and a towering rain tree. It offers both airconditioned indoor and al fresco seating for up to 150 guests, with a lawn area

nearby suitable for pre-cocktail functions by the waterfront. Outside the event centre is a 120-sqm covered terrace adjoined to a timber deck of similar capacity.

W: www.shangri-la.com

venue update

NEW CREATIVE BREAKS Hong Kong – The Mira Hong Kong has launched seven new avant-garde thematic coffee breaks designed to pull event planners and clients away from formal business routines by offering a variety of informal settings to spark new ideas. From delegates preparing legendary Hong Kong street snacks themselves, stimulating desserts hanging from trees, and energising cocktails served in “light bulbs”, the breaks are part of Mira-velous Conference initiatives aimed to suit delegates’ needs and stimulate creativity for brainstorming.

Each of the breaks can be set up within The Mira Hong Kong’s versatile events

space, from the pillar-less penthouse ballroom and eight multi-function rooms to the al fresco lounge bar in the courtyard terrace. Themes include: Michelin Recommended Yum Cha Bites created by master chefs of the hotel’s Cuisine Cuisine restaurant; Chic Sensation with stylish software and creative cabinets filled with black caviar and desserts; Fashion Plate with couturier details of handcrafted desserts and savouries; COCO Creation of pastries, chocolate fountain and savoury canapés; Urban Hong Kong’s street snacks; Feel Electric with a pre-taste of the city’s nightlife vibes; and Out & Uplifted’s

outdoor setting recreated indoors with comfortable rattan pods and savouries. The Mira Hong Kong also has presentation concepts catering to vegan, Halal, and gluten-free dietary needs, including guiltfree tofu chocolate cheese cake, Lebanese falafels, or pandan-coconut crème caramel.

The Mira Hong Kong is offering an introductory 30-per-cent discount for the Full Day Conference Package with one of the new seven themed breaks, for bookings with room accommodation made on or before February 28, 2014 for events by June 30, 2014.

W: www.themirahotel.com

the villa is designed with natural wood and white expanses accented by warm hues for optimum comfort. All bedrooms also come with their own private entrances, guaranteeing privacy for senior-level delegates.

W Retreat Koh Samui is located

between Maenum and Bo Phut, one of the finest and most pristine beach locations in Thailand. Alongside 74 all-private pool retreats, it also offers a 150-sqm events space with advanced AV equipment and breaks and team-building options.

W: www.wretreatkohsamui.com

SEASCAPE RETREAT Thailand – W Retreat Koh Samui has introduced a four-bedroom Seascape Escape Villa, the newest room category stretched along the lush landscape overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.

Measuring 2058 sqm with its own 15-metre infinity-edged swimming pool,

micenet Asia

55

venue update

RETURN OF WESTIN Singapore – The Westin has returned to Singapore as the city’s first integrated hotel located within an office building in the Marina Bay financial district.

Occupying levels 32-46 of the new Asia Square Tower 2 commercial development, The Westin Singapore boasts the highest lobby in Singapore and amenities and services signature to the Westin brand promise of inspired well being.

MICE bookers can find 1350 sqm of

event facilities including versatile meeting rooms, a pre-function area and a ballroom, alongside 305 guestrooms and suites designed for comfort and productivity. On top of ergonomic in-room workspaces, the Westin Executive Club Lounge offers Executive Club guests an exclusive space for meetings with private rooms and wireless high speed internet.

Other amenities include an infinity pool, an exclusively-Westin fitness studio with customised workouts, the New Balance

Gear Lending programme providing guests with sports apparel during a stay, Heavenly Spa facilities, a gastro-bar, signature restaurant, and gourmet market.

The Westin Singapore is offering a renewal opening package starting from SG$345, inclusive of breakfast and complimentary internet access valid until April 30, 2014. Starwood Preferred Guest members will also receive double Starpoints as part of the package.

W: www.thewestinsingapore.com

INSPIRING MEETINGS IMAGINED Global – Marriott Hotels has launched an online platform with expert tips, latest meeting trends, and inspirational images to spark creativity. Meetings Imagined, a firstof-its-kind concept reinventing the planning of meetings by making them more visual, social and purposeful, allows customers to collaborate with hotels to design custom experiences or view those featured in participating test hotels. Customers can

56

micenet Asia

also post favourite images on social media sites Pinterest and Facebook.

The concept is the result of research showing a shift in how the next generation customer works collaboratively and uses technology. Based on the belief that every meeting should inspire participants by being uniquely designed to achieve specific objectives, Meetings Imagined “infuses a more sophisticated approach based on

objectives and outcomes”, according to Marriott Hotels senior vice-president of brand management, Paul Cahill.

The website allows event planners to inject creativity and purpose into every aspect, offering tips for successful meetings from ice breakers and technology to F&B and music to set the mood. Featuring images of example experiences across Marriott Hotels worldwide, planners can tailor these elements to suit the goals of each meeting.

Five Marriott Hotels in the US will be testing the Meetings Imagined concept, including the Chicago Marriott O’Hare, Tysons Corner Marriott, Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center, Orlando World Center Marriott, and the Atlanta Marriott Marqui. Also available in Europe at the London Marriott Grosvenor Square, Paris Marriott Rive Gauche, Munich Marriott Hotel, and the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel, it is expected to expand to more Marriott Hotels throughout the year.

W: www.meetingsimagined.com m

people compiled by gina sin

EMMA RUTLEDGE OPERATIONS MANAGER ICMS AUSTRALASIA PTY LTD

RENE MAYER GLOBAL DIRECTOR OF SALES REGENT BALI

IAN EKERS GENERAL MANAGER THE SUKHOTHAI BANGKOK

Australia – Emma Rutledge

Indonesia – Rene Mayer was

Thailand – Ian Ekers has been

has been appointed operations manager for sponsorship and exhibitions at ICMS Australasia, after spending eight years with the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre. She was most recently named “2013 National Event Manager of the Year” by Meetings & Events Association of Australia.

recently promoted to global director of sales at Regent Hotels & Resorts and is currently director of sales and marketing at Regent Bali. Mr Mayer was previously director of sales and marketing at Sofitel Plaza Hanoi.

He holds a Master of Hospitality Management from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, and a business studies degree in economics, marketing and sales.

appointed general manager at The Sukhothai Bangkok. A British national, Mr Ekers graduated from Brigham Young University in Hawaii with a double major in hotel and restaurant management, and information system and computer science. Mr Ekers was previously general manager of The Sentosa, a Beaufort Hotel in Singapore.

JAMAL HUSSAIN GENERAL MANAGER REGENT BALI

GREGOR WATELER GENERAL MANAGER KERRY HOTEL PUDONG, SHANGHAI

ADHIYANTO WONGSO DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS THE MULIA, MULIA RESORT & VILLAS – NUSA DUA, BALI Indonesia – Adhiyanto Wongso

has joined The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali as director of communications. Of Indonesian-Chinese origin, Mr Wongso was born and raised in Jakarta before spending over 12 years in Beijing where he found his passion for advertising, design, brand marketing, social media, internet marketing, and public relations. Prior to joining The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas, he was with Starwood Hotels & Resorts setting up the group’s first Indonesia cluster sales and marketing team.

Indonesia – Regent Bali

welcomes Jamal Hussain as assistant vice-president and general manager from Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts, where he held senior positions in Maldives, Bintan, Singapore, and Bali. Mr Hussain graduated with a diploma in tourism and hotel management from Schloss Klesheim in Salzburg, Austria, and started his career in the hospitality industry with Hilton Vienna, Austria. With 36 years of experience, Mr Hussain has led several opening teams for new hotels and resorts as well as obtained awards and accolades for the properties he led.

China – Kerry Hotel Pudong,

Shanghai has appointed Gregor Wateler as general manager, who previously held the same position in Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo. A German native, Mr Wateler’s 24 years of experience in the hospitality industry have brought him from Berlin to France, the Philippines, Egypt, Singapore, and China.

He spent over 15 years in senior management positions at nine of Shangri-La properties in Asia, beginning with Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore in 1998.

In his leisure time, Mr Wateler enjoys surfing, mountain climbing, and long distance running.

ALAN PRYOR GENERAL MANAGER KUALA LUMPUR CONVENTION CENTRE Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (the Centre) has announced the appointment of Alan Pryor as general manager, taking over Datuk Peter Brokenshire who retires at the end of March after 11 years with the Centre. Mr Pryor joined the Centre in 2011 as deputy general manager, where he was responsible for daily operations. His introduction to the hospitality industry began in 1978 in London, which involved working at numerous hotels before moving to the exhibition and conference sector at the Kensington Exhibition Centre and the Connaught Rooms between 1986 and 1993. m

micenet Asia

57

封面故事

2014年 2月至3月双月刊

聚焦 学无止境 59 60 62 64

韩国: 益智美食 封面故事: Dreamtime 会奖旅游展销会让 澳大利亚的会展水平更上一层楼 案例分析: 滨海湾金沙致力于可持续发展 行程安排: 在48小时内体验澳门醉人风光

商业及会奖旅游买家都渴望学习，但却没有机会。 这是我去年十二月在悉尼参加Dreamtime2013会奖 旅游展销会（封面故事，页60）时意识到的。作为 本次活动的教育内容的一部分，我有幸与50位来 自东南亚和中国大陆的买家近距离接触，与他们交 流经验。这些买家都是业内的老手，拥有在海外策 划会议及会奖旅游活动的丰富经验。然而，学无止 境，他们无不想提升自己在活动管理专业的技能， 或掌握一些风险管理方面的知识。遗憾的是，求学 无门。 虽然亚洲的一些会展局和协会已开始关注会展 教育和认证方面的问题，但是其力度似乎还不够， 活动管理专业水平也有待提升。只有提供适当的训 练，会展业方能更上一层楼，而目前会展业存在的 恶性削价竞争和缺乏透明度等问题或许就能迎刃而 解。处于会展业高速发展时期的亚洲，急需的就是 这方面的训练。 “绿色”会议的重要性越来越受到人们的关 注，这一期让我们看滨海湾金沙如何筹划一场百分 百的碳中和绿色会议（页62），为环保尽一份力。 唐艳敏 编辑兼副社长

micenet 亚洲很荣幸成为以下机构的成员:

欲知更多详情，请浏览网址: 封面: 照片由澳大利亚旅游局提供

58

micenet Asia

www.micenet.asia

韩国

益智美食 让会议变得更精彩？ 韩国的各种传统、营 养丰富以及杀菌防病 的食品风味将挑动与 会者的味蕾，让他们 大饱口福。

By Robert Cotter

如何让与会者参加会议时保持兴趣盎 然，并且精神饱满是举办一场成功的商 务活动的关键之一。而要让与会者做到 这一点的关键则在饮食。 对韩国这个亚洲地区炙手可热的会 展旅游目的地来说，为宾客提供优质的 美食是举办任何会展活动的重要环节。 在最近的一次由韩国食品基金所举办 的美食之旅中，充分证明了食物原料的 采购不单单是寻找适当的食物和注重食 物的味道，更是食物原料是否对健康有 益，以及食物生产的质量。 从东南部的沿海小镇浦项 （Pohang）行驶，短短的车程就能抵达 秀丽的竹长然（Jookjangyeon）山地农 场 。在这里，员工们细心地处理黄豆， 经过蒸熟、晾干等多个步骤，最后将之 装进大缸里让它发酵。每缸大酱的发酵 期从六个月到几年不等，最后看到的是 一缸缸优质、上等的黄豆酱。黄豆酱可 说是韩国家庭或任何餐桌上不可或缺的 必备品。 从浦项北到首尔，将途径美食齐聚的 安东市（Andong）和近在咫尺的世界文 化遗产河回村（Hahoe）。在安东传统 餐厅（Pungjeon），一道道精致的韩国 小吃将挑动您的味蕾，而饱食一餐后， 可选择在北村（Bukchondaek）的其中 一间传统住宅（hanok）住一宿。北村宅 全部由松木搭成，保存完好。所有房间 均为地板采暖，可席地而眠，让您体验 几百年前祖先的生活起居。无疑是一个 让您体验韩国文化的理想奖励旅游吗？ 回到韩国首都首尔，无数的美食 和繁多的餐馆更是令人眼花缭乱，无 从选择。近年来，寺庙食物越来越

受到人们的欢迎。著名的山村餐馆 （Sanchon）道道出炉的均是色香味俱 全的佛教素食，令非素食者都食指大 动。Jungsikdang则是另一家著名的韩 国料理餐馆。这家装潢舒适时尚，极富 欧陆风情的餐馆专营新式韩国料理，在 食品视觉上走前卫路线，料理的方法则 融合韩式及西式概念，是家不折不扣的 高端现代餐馆。由于大厨精湛的厨艺受 到广泛的好评，该餐馆于2011年在 纽约市开设了分店。 韩国料理并非只是人们印 象中的拌饭、烧烤以及泡 菜，其实其菜式及风味更 是丰富多样，而且与国 家的文化息息相关。此 外，韩国料理中包含了 许多发酵食品，科研 人员也已证明了发酵 食品有益健康，而且 有杀菌防病的作用。 食品中的高浓度氨基 酸甚至可以有效地预 防肥胖、癌症以及多 种疾病。会展活动的 出席者需要的正是这 样的益智美食。 诚如三星集团与江 南，韩国的会展业从以 往的默默无闻摇身一变成 为当今国际会展业中不可忽 视的一股力量。而在烹饪界 中，韩国料理更是受到广泛的关 注，被认为是下一桩大事。我们可 以期待将有更多与美食有关的会展活 动在韩国举行。 m micenet Asia

59

封面故事

Dreamtime 会奖旅游展 销会让澳大利亚的会展 水平更上一层楼

乘坐直升机俯瞰大洋路

凭借精致的当地美馔和丰富的会奖旅游经验， 澳大利亚向国际商务旅游买家证明了澳大利亚 是商务会奖旅游的首选之地。By Kristie Thong 名厨Kylie Kwong精彩的烹饪示范

多名国际商务旅游买家和企业决策者有 幸受邀出席在墨尔本举行的Dreamtime 2013会奖旅游展销会。作为澳大利亚旅 游局的招牌活动，Dreamtime 2013从12 月9日开始至13日结束，旨在向国际买家 展示澳大利亚各地区丰富多样的旅游资 源以及风格各异的会奖旅游项目、商务 活动设施及相关的产品和体验。此次展 销会共有85位国际企业决策者和18家来 自世界各地的媒体获邀参加多项活动， 以及分别造访阿德莱德、凯恩斯、黄金 海岸、北领地和悉尼这五大区域景点。 诸位买家有机会品尝全澳最顶尖的 国际名厨精心设计的美食佳肴和游览鲜 为人知的景点，亲身感受独特的旅游 体验。 澳大利亚旅游局前局长Andrew McEvoy表示：“这个为期一周的旅游 展销会主要向国家买家展示澳大利亚作 为首选商务会奖旅游目的地的综合实 力。” 他补充道：“超凡的旅游体验、世 界级的旅游目的地以及令人叹为观止的 自然景观，使澳大利亚持续成为全球商 旅客户青睐的旅游目的地之一。” 维珍澳大利亚航空公司和新加坡航 空公司是这次Dreamtime 2013的重要赞 助商之一。

墨尔本 本届Dreamtime 2013会奖旅游展销会在 主办城市墨尔本的会议展览中心掀开序 幕。买家和媒体代表有机会与澳大利亚 业内人士，包括12家全国性的运营商、 航空公司和55家分别来自昆士兰州、新 南威尔士州、北领地、南澳、塔斯马尼 亚州、维多利亚州以及西澳大利亚的运 营商代表会面洽谈。 60

micenet Asia

商务会议——墨尔本会议展览中心

除了商务交流外，买家和媒体代表 还受邀参与市内观光，体验墨尔本的特 色文化和独有的人文气息，如女帽设计 和咖啡泡制工作坊、认识墨尔本生动的 巷弄文化和乘坐直升机俯瞰大洋路，感 受一次令人震撼的飞行体验。

教育之旅——悉尼 在墨尔本与多位运营商代表进行交流并 参加市内观光后，诸位买家收拾行囊启 程到不同的地区参加教育之旅。来自北 美的买家前往凯恩斯，日本和韩国的买 家到黄金海岸，新西兰和英国的买家则 前往乌鲁鲁。由于适逢阿德莱德灰烬杯 （Adelaide Ashes Test），主办单位特 地安排印度买家先到阿德莱德，然后才 到墨尔本参加展销会活动。 来自中国大陆、香港、台湾、新加 坡、马来西亚、印尼和泰国的50位买 家则被安排到悉尼参加市内观光。由于 大部分的买家对悉尼这个享负盛名的会 奖旅游目的地已相当熟悉，悉尼会议奖 励旅游局精心策划了一个独特的旅游路

线，避开一般旅游团必造访的著名旅游 景点。 一抵达悉尼，买家们就被送往瑰丽 湾（Rose Bay）然后登上一艘19世纪50 年代风格的高大船舶，开始环游景色绝 佳的悉尼港。随着邮轮缓缓前行，船上 的讲解员耐心地向大家讲解有关悉尼过 去和岸边地标性建筑的历史。当大家还 陶醉在悉尼港美妙的景色中时，游船已 在岩石区的码头靠岸，一顿丰盛的海鲜 午餐已在Waterfront餐馆等候着大家。

超凡的旅游体验、 世界级的旅游目的地以 及令人叹为观止的自然 景观，让澳大利亚持续 成为全球商旅客户青睐 的旅游目的地之一 ANDREW MCEVOY 澳大利亚旅游局前局长

封面故事

悉尼舞蹈团

重要联系： 澳大利亚旅游局 www.tourism.australia.com

坐落于邦迪海滩的 Icebergs餐厅

在The Grounds of Alexandria呈 现的土著文化表演

墨尔本会议局 在著名餐厅Vue de monde品尝澳式美馔

www.melbournecb.com.au 墨尔本会议展览中心

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOURISM AUSTRALIA

www.mcec.com.au 此次悉尼教育之旅的其中一个精彩 节目是“我的悉尼故事”（My Sydney Stories Showcase）。这个节目向各位 买家介绍了一些鲜为旅客所知且具有特 色的地方。 “我的悉尼故事”在邦迪海滩的 Icebergs餐厅及酒吧拉开序幕。曾担任 悉尼奥运会开幕式、闭幕式总导演的世 界著名大型仪式制作人及艺术总监—— 伊格内修斯•琼斯（Ignatius Jones）和澳 大利亚著名时尚品牌Ginger & Smart的代 表也到场与大家分享他们对悉尼如何演 变成一个多元文化城市的真知灼见。 过后，大家还有机会到重新开张的 皇家兰德威克赛马场（Royal Randwick Racecourse）参观，并在澳大利亚顶级 骑师白德民（Darren Beadman）的仿 真赛中“下注”。 当日的午餐在别具特色的The Grounds of Alexandria。这家咖啡厅设 在一栋老建筑物中，在1900年代曾是西 饼厂仓库，但如今已摇身一变，不但成 为内城中一家超有感觉的精品咖啡厅， 还是研制咖啡、品尝咖啡的地方。咖啡 厅外还有一方蔬菜和香草园地，真是别 有一番天地。澳大利亚明星厨师，也是 著名餐馆“家常便饭”（Billy Kwong） 的老板Kylie Kwong也在现场利用土著 蔬菜做了一次精彩的烹饪示范。看了示 范后，大家入席就坐，享受一顿美味佳 肴，Kylie Kwong也为大家奉上她的拿 手好菜。 接着，大家参加了悉尼舞蹈团的后 台导览，一探后幕究竟。悉尼舞蹈团是 国际著名的团体，部分买家还趁机与该 团的舞蹈员合照留念。 Dreamtime 2013展销会的最后一天

让买家们在西田（Westfield）购物中心 感受了VIP式的购物体验。紧接着是展开 一系列围绕在“悉尼标志性之旅”、“ 悉尼自然之旅”以及“悉尼探险之旅” 这三个主题的活动，其中把括乘坐哈雷 戴维森摩托车游悉尼城市、在悉尼港滨 漫步和在全澳最大的骑术中心以及著名 的户外运动场所骏域谷进行紧张有趣的 活动等。 悉尼会议奖励旅游局首席执行官 Lyn Lewis-Smith表示：“悉尼有别于 其它会奖旅游目的地，无论预算有多 少，团队有多大，我们丰富多样的旅游 资源，适合进行各种奖励旅游和活动。 更重要的是无论您是首次造访，还是故 地重游，澳大利亚总会让您怦然心动。 此外，我们拥有组织世界级商务会奖 活动的丰富经验以及提供优质服务的声 誉。”

悉尼会议奖励旅游局 www.businesseventssydney.com.au Waterfront 餐馆 www.docksidegroup.com.au/ restaurants/waterfront Icebergs 餐厅及酒吧 www.idrb.com 皇家兰德威克赛马场 www.australianturfclub.com.au/ royal_randwick_events.html The Grounds of Alexandria www.groundsroasters.com 悉尼舞蹈团 www.sydneydancecompany.com

餐饮

Vue Events at the Rialto

澳大利亚旅游局前局长McEvoy认为除了 能提供独特的会奖旅游体验外，澳大利 亚的美食美酒也是吸引越来越国际商旅 客户前来的其中一个原因。在本次的展 销会中，买家和媒体代表都受邀品尝本 地生产及最好的佳肴美馔。 部分买家和媒体代表还有机会一品 澳大利亚著名厨师Guy Grossi和Tony Panetta的精湛厨艺，以及在坐落于墨尔 本里亚尔托塔内的Vue Events－Vue de monde品尝名厨Shannon Bennett的澳 式美馔，如茶树熏鲑鱼珍珠、鸸鹋及盐 渍袋鼠肉和栗子。此外，他们也没错过 另一位明星厨师Luke Mangan的精选三 菜套餐，其塔斯马尼亚鲑鱼和维多利亚 牛肉都让每名宾客齿颊留港。m

www.vuedemonde.com.au/eventsat-rialto

悉尼有别于其它会 奖旅游目的地，无论预 算有多少，团队有多 大，我们丰富多样的旅 游资源，适合进行各种 奖励旅游和活动。 LYN LEWIS-SMITH 悉尼会议奖励旅游局首席执行官 micenet Asia

61

案例分析

滨海湾金沙致力于可持续发展 活动名称

2013年可持续发展商 业论坛（Responsible Business Forum 2013）

主办单位

Global Initiatives, EcoBusiness, 世界自然基 金会(WWF)、世界可 持续发展工商理事会 (WBCSD) 、生态系统和 生物多样性研究经济学 (TEEB)

主办地点

新加坡金沙会议展览 中心

场地：

金沙Hibiscus 宴会厅 和 Heliconia 宴会厅

日期

2013年11月25至26日

人数

超过500人

预算

未公开

62

micenet Asia

活动概述 2013年可持续发展商业论坛 （Responsible Business Forum 2013 ）汇集了众多来自东南亚地区的商 界领袖、非政府组织及政策制定者， 共同探讨商业解决方案及制定政策框 架，以促进可持续性发展。新加坡环 境及水源部长维文医生是本届论坛的 席上贵宾，并在开幕礼上致辞。 这个为期两天的论坛第二次在滨海

湾金沙举行，主题为“绿色经济的转 型与增长”。与会者就农业及林业、 棕榈油、消费品、金融服务、建筑与 城市基础设施以及能源六个领域共同 讨论了他们将如何制定政策来促进以 上六个行业的可持续性发展以及他们 对可持续发展的承诺。 在论坛上，与会者也就“如何在举 办商务活动时减轻对环境的破坏”这 个议题展开了讨论。作为承办方的滨

可持续发展商业论坛上所讨论的一些议题 让我产生共鸣，例如推出可持续发展行动计划 的急迫性和大企业应视可持续发展为企业社会 责任的一部分。此论坛也提供了一个让与会者 分享看法和新点子的机会。 STEVEN LANG 安永会计师事务所 清洁技术及可持续发展服务部。

案例分析 海湾金沙，在此次的论坛上也积极地为 可持续发展尽一份力，成功策划了一场 碳中和绿色会议。

活动执行 想要成功举办一场百分之百的碳中和 会议要求活动的每个环节都得到细心安 排，这包括为与会者提供可持续食物、 推行循环利用及废物管理、以及鼓励与 会者采纳金沙推出的“生态360计划”。

场地设置 滨海湾金沙遵循金沙Eco 360°优化环 境的准则，采用完善的空气质量监测管 理，每一个会议的冷气都设在25摄氏 度，并安装感应器，会议室无人时电灯 将自动关闭。会议进行期不预先在桌上 摆放稿纸、薄荷糖、饮用水等，用饮水 机取代瓶装水，不使用椅套，而活动的 背景板都可再循环使用。

餐饮 滨海湾金沙为宾客提供首个根据Green Harvest菜单而特别推出的素食环保菜 单。食材均产自本地或东南亚，这样就 可减少远程食物运输，以降低对环境的 冲击。此外，客人的饮料不提前预备， 而是各取所需，以杜绝浪费。

废物管理

社区志愿服务 与会者除了参加论坛外，还受邀参与 滨海湾金沙的企业社会责任活动之一 的“Soap for Hope”。这项活动主要收 集酒店房间没有使用的液体肥皂和洗发 水，通过慈善团体分给有需要的家庭。 在论坛举行期间，与会者们都积极参与 了这项深具意义的活动，并将装好的 液体肥皂分以及活动多余的面包发给滨 海湾金沙赞助的慈善机构——爱心食品 （Food from the Heart）。

挑战与应战 筹划此论坛最大的挑战在餐饮方面。客户 要求所有的食物都必须是素食。面对这样 的要求，厨师们都绞尽脑汁，想方设法在 有限的食材局限下，满足所有宾客的饮食 要求。而为了杜绝浪费，滨海湾金沙的活

动策划人员必须与主办方紧密合作，多次 沟通，预计每一餐的人数。

活动结果 通过筹划本届论坛，滨海湾金沙成为首 个采用新加坡旅游局近期公布的可持续 发展指导方针的MICE场地。 Sustainability Showcase Asia主席Ken Hickson表示：“此论坛是一个宣传可 持续发展原则的良好平台。大家都有共 同的理念，为可持续发展尽一份力。 Hickson先生也表示可持续发展是一 个持续的过程，他希望有更多的公司在 筹办活动时能采用ISO20121活动永续管 理系统。m

此次能与滨海湾金 沙合作是一个非常好的 经验，滨海湾金沙向来 致力于可持续发展，而 且以提供完善的设施为 豪，因此是举办本届论 坛的理想之地。 ANTHONY GOURLAY GLOBAL INITIATIVES 行政总裁。

所有食物废弃物都在最大的可能下进行 分类与回收。非污染食物废弃物将被送 去进行堆肥处理，而使用过的食用油也 将被回收。活动结束后，金沙还有向客 户提供《生态360计划报告书》，详细 说明该活动对环境的影响，内容包括能 源和水源的使用情况、循环回收率、碳 排放量以及可持续发展举措的重点。

micenet Asia

63

行程安排

在48小时内 体验澳门醉 人风光 计划在澳门举办一次充 实而令人难忘的会展活 动吗？商务团队可以在 短短的两天内体验澳门 的浓浓传统风情，尽享 无与伦比的奢华。 第一天 早晨，伴着朝阳，在世界文化遗产—— 澳门历史城区进行一场寻宝活动。穿梭 于旧街道与广场之间，队员们必须以 ipad完成他们的任务。 午饭，在澳门最高的旋转餐厅享受 一顿丰盛的自助式午餐。身处338米高 的观光塔上，随着餐厅顺时针缓缓转 动，队员们可边享受美食边欣赏360度 全方位澳门迷人美景，珠三角精致也尽 收眼底。 午饭过后，带上您的团队参加一次 难忘的击鼓经历。在热情并充满活力的 教练的指导带动下，队员们必定受到鼓 舞，凝聚力也将更强。此外，队员们也 会随着教练，在观光塔的外边缘进行一 次步行游览。 晚餐之前，带领队员们到新濠天地 欣赏惊世巨铸，全球最壮观的水上汇 演“水舞间”。 欣赏了精彩的“水舞间”后， 到“Sky21”餐厅及酒吧享受一顿别开 生面的晚餐。餐厅的服务员都装扮城荷 官，宾客置身当中，有如在娱乐场， 但不做金钱交易，而是享用美酒与佳 肴。这是一个崭新的用餐体验，充分体 现了澳门博彩、美食与娱乐的豪华气 派。Sky 21拥有室内与室外用餐区，除 了可享用精致美馔外，更能欣赏澳门无 敌景色。

第二天 清晨空气清新，队员们可一起练太极 64

micenet Asia

拳，使全身各内脏器官活跃起来。太极 拳至少有2000千的历史，练太极拳可调 和人体的阴阳，疏通经络，和畅气血。 疏通经脉后，团队肯定精神饱满， 此时正是来一场澳门美食大探索的时 候。接近四百年的中西文化完美的融 合，让各式美食齐聚澳门，定能让宾客 们大饱口福。 午膳安排在路环区的美丽华正宗葡 国餐厅。主厨André和他的团队将为各 位宾客奉上色香味俱全的传统葡国饕餮 大餐。 下午，来一场振奋人心的龙舟塞。 龙舟赛是中国民间传统水上体育娱乐项 目，已流传两千多年，据说是为了纪念 伟大的爱国诗人屈原而兴起的。如今， 龙舟赛已成为一项国际运动。龙舟赛不 仅刺激有趣，更是一项凝聚团队力量， 激发成员斗志的绝佳运动。没有参与龙

舟竞渡的成员可来一场充满激情的哈卡 舞，为参加龙舟赛的队员鼓舞。 紧张刺激的比赛后，想必大家的肚 子也饿了，晚餐将设在海湾餐厅。在这 里宾客有机会品尝到非常传统的葡国佳 肴。葡萄牙人在澳门登陆以后，把他们 的烹调方法与点子也带到这里，同时也 将来自非洲、印度、马来所产的香料、 咖喱等异国材料带入澳门。许多餐馆在 保留传统葡国菜精随的前提下，搭配澳 门当地食材，料理出独一无二澳门特色 的葡国菜。一道道美食，加上热情的招 待，定能让大家拥有一个难忘的回忆。

此行程安排由澳门专业会议顾问公司 DOC DMC MACAU LTD提供。请浏 览 www.doc-dmc-macau.com 或致电 +853 2872 3510询问信息。m

micenet on the move DownloaD the micenet magazines for free

Join over 90,000 micenet readers today and watch the pages come to life Visit the Apple apps store, search for â&#x20AC;&#x153;micenetâ&#x20AC;? to experience super interactivity content from the new micenet platform

Also subscribe to our online news and promotions platform via

www.micenet.asia/subscribe /micenetmagazines

/micenet

/micenet

2014年 2月至3月双月刊

Dreamtime 2013展销会： 展示澳大利亚会奖旅游之最