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The future in our hands We don’t need “An Inconvenient Truth”, a documentary released in 2006 about former US vice-president Al Gore’s campaign on global warming, to know that our earth is in danger. Unless we’ve been living in a cocoon, we would have noticed extreme weathers starting to affect our earth in more ways than before. Winters are dragging into spring and summer, according to our European counterparts, while countries with tropical climates are seeing elongated hot days followed by erratic periods of torrential rain. The debate regarding the negative effects of human activities on Mother Earth is still on, but professionals in the business events industry have started to sit up and take this seriously. The reality is that our activities give out billion tonnes of carbon emissions each year, and as of 2012, have reached a record high of 35.6 billion tonnes from over 9 billion metric tonnes in 2009.
The figures are alarming, and thus have seen various companies across different sectors work to reduce their carbon footprint. The business events industry, in particular, has started looking at ways to cut down on waste, with one of the first steps taken by the UK Waste & Resources Action Programme to publish a roadmap to zero waste by year 2020. This programme was reflected in the British Standard BS8901 developed for the London 2012 Olympic Games, which became international standard ISO 20121 (Event Sustainability Management System) last April. The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau was next in line to launch the standard, becoming the second in the world after the UK to implement it in the MICE industry. But while this is setting things in motion, it’s undeniable that saving the environment requires a joint effort between
industry partners, venues and suppliers, as well as individuals to make a difference. In this edition, we identify how the future generation in MICE, the Gen Ys, may be the key to facilitating the industry’s move towards zero waste (Page 12-13), and how some companies have decided to play a more active role in giving back to the environment through carbon offsetting programmes (Page 31-33). micenet ASIA has recently launched an iPad app in a similar move to gain more exposure in an environmentally-conscious way. The iPad edition, which is free for download from the Apple apps store, offers more interactivity to readers in Asia and around the world in a paperless format. Please enjoy this edition of micenet ASIA, and continue to share with us your concerns on sustainability and how event organisers can do more to relieve the burden on Mother Earth.
Kristie Thong Editor
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD • Andrew Chan, ACI HR Solutions • Damion Breust, Barclays • Daniel Chua, AONIA • Danielle Puceta, American Express Business Travel • David Lim, Everest Motivation
• Maureen O’Crowley, Seoul Tourism Organization • Nino Grüttke, Messe Berlin • Rosalind Ng, SACEOS • Selina Grocott, Pacific World
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CONTENTS
news & events
departments
UP-TO-DATE
UPCLOSE
04 BUREAU BRIEFS 06 NEWS 12 GLOBAL WATCH Gen Y’s role in driving sustainability goals 44 SHOW REPORT IT&CM China 2013 draws local interest 50 PEOPLE 55 VENUE UPDATE 56 TASTE MAKERS Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre’s year of culinary excellence
11 Q&A • Luxperience 14 ASSOCIATION • Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA) Sumate Sudasna, President • The Singapore Association of Conventions and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS) Janet Tan-Collis, President 39 WE ARE Y • Angsana Laguna Phuket Danat Thanoosilp, Manager - sales and leisure 48 PROFILE: Women of Inspiration • Destination Asia (Thailand) Pornthip (Addie) Hirunkate, Managing director • Marina Mandarin Singapore Serene Law, Director of sales & marketing 57 CURTAIN CALL
MICE MATTERS 8 TECHNOLOGY Switched on at PALME 2013 9 TECHNOLOGY Mobile World Congress 2013’s grand move 51 CAREER STRATEGIES Working with Gen Y 52 HOW TO (SPECIAL) Be a good event operations manager 54 OPINION Reducing risk in meeting and events
TRENDING 22 CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRES Eye on the bigger dollar 31 GREEN ACCREDITATION Carbon pressure 38 SMALL MEETING SPACES Meeting of the minds
Cover image: Courtesy of Marina Bay Sands
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.
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JUNE – JULY 2013
destinations
group PUBLISHER / MANAGING DIRECTOR Helen Batt-Rawden Email: helen@btp.net.au VICE PRESIDENT El Kwang Email: el@micenet.asia MANAGING EDITOR Brad Foster Email: brad@btp.net.au EDITOR Kristie Thong Email: kristie@micenet.asia DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Low Lay Hong Jenn Ruffell Email: jennifer@btp.net.au
REGION FOCUS 16 COVER STORY: Marina Bay Sands Singapore’s star player continues to outperform on Asia’s business events platform 18 SINGAPORE A day in the life of Josie Sinni, events manager at Esri Australia 26 VIETNAM The hidden gem of Nha Trang 34 PHILIPPINES Meet me by the Manila Bay 36 PHILIPPINES Back in the game
OFF-SITE 29 60 MINUTES Hanoi 30 MEET & EAT Vietnam
CASE STUDY 21 Meeting of mouth and foot artists in Singapore 2012 42 2013 Amway (China) Leadership Seminar
contributors • Sirima Eamtako • Leila Botham • Andrew Chan • Samantha Coomber • Rob Cotter • Gina Sin • Angela Blardony Ureta CHINESE TRANSLATOR KH Tok SALES & MARKETING Singapore office: El Kwang Email: el@micenet.asia Michelle Lim Email: michelle@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 Lillian Longford Email: lillian@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 Subscriptions: info@micenet.asia
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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 ISSN 2010-3328 PPS 1785/04/2013 (022963)
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bureau briefs
Jakarta, Bali secure Miss World 2013 INDONESIA Miss World will be held in Jakarta and Bali this year, making Indonesia the first Southeast Asian country to host this event. The Miss World 2013 Global Finals will take place at the Sentul International
TCEB eyes more Asian events THAILAND Having observed great business potential in Asia, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) is targeting to lure more business meetings from Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia, and exhibitors from Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, India, Vietnam and China. Financial subsidies will continue to be part of TCEB’s winning strategy. In its third fiscal quarter (April to June 2013), it will be supporting the fourth World Anesthesia Convention, Herbalife Extravaganza and incentives groups from Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore, as well as providing assistance to 21 international exhibitions. This follows assistance provided to 210 conventions and 23 international exhibitions between October 2012 and March 2013, including Pro Health China, World Cargo Alliance Conference and Motor Expo. TCEB is also working to increase the awareness of Thailand as a MICE destination through trade shows, including IMEX in Frankfurt, the Americas Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (AIBTM) in Chicago and Korea MICE Expo in Seoul. It is also staging seven road shows in Myanmar, Philippines, Taiwan, China, England, Germany and the US. TCEB acting president Thongchai Sridama said TCEB is expecting the local MICE industry to grow by 5 to 10 per cent this year to the value of 88 billion baht (US$2.95 billion) from around 940,000 foreign MICE visitors. 4
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Convention Center in Jakarta on September 28, with some 125 beauty pageant contestants from around the globe converging in Bali one month prior. The Sentul International Convention Center is located on the border of Jakarta
and West Java, and the latter’s governor has expressed his support for the event in consideration that no bikini contests will take place there. The event will be held in the largest arena of its kind in Indonesia.
World PCO Alliance to grab exhibitor spot at IMEX
IMEX Frankfurt 2012 Show Floor.
GLOBAL The World PCO Alliance, which was formed four years ago and now sees 20 member PCOs worldwide, will exhibit at The Worldwide Exhibition for Incentive Travel, Meetings and Events (IMEX) in Frankfurt this May for the first time. Denmark’s International Conference Services president elect Per Ankaer said this is a natural step to showcase the success of the alliance. “The co-operation in the alliance has been strengthened throughout the years and many clients have seen the advantage of working with a strong local PCO with a large international network.”
Representing leading PCOs in six continents, the World PCO Alliance is a cohesive group which aims to capitalise on the efficiency of consolidating conference and event services within one network. With clear financial and logistical benefits as well as quality assurance, the alliance’s members share resources, knowledge, technology, training and best practices to provide a one-stop solution for international meetings and conferences. The alliance organises about 500 congresses every year. Over 400,000 delegates attended the congresses organised in 2012.
NEWS Compiled by Kristie Thong
Marriott invests in hospitality education Langham Place, Mongkok gets EarthCheck recognition CHINA Marriott International, together with Anhui Zhong-Ao Institute of Technology in China, has launched an educational institution to develop the future generation of the local hospitality workforce. The Marriott Institute of Hospitality Education will offer a three-year diploma programme with a curriculum focus on hotel management. It will see its first intake this year from the annual China national examination. Marriott International market vicepresident of eastern China Michael Malik will serve as deputy dean to provide counsel and oversee the educational direction, while the company’s senior executives will play a role in some curriculum lectures. Marriott International will also be offering work placements to students in their final
year, providing field study and internship opportunities at hotels, and contribute to the development of the curriculum. Marriott Institute of Hospitality Education’s dean Wang Yuan Hao said: “The hospitality industry of China has been growing rapidly and this trend is expected to continue in coming years. Therefore it is essential that our education will keep pace with and meet the human resources demand of the industry.” Plans to expand the curriculum to include tourism management, culinary and nutrition are also in the pipeline. Marriott International has launched cooperation programmes with 15 colleges in China, including in Beijing, Tianjin and Shanghai. It also has relations with 112 colleges across China and recruited more than 2500 interns in the country last year.
Accor Asia Pacific portfolio goes on Android ASIA PACIFIC International hotel group Accor has launched a new Android version of its hotel directory, providing users access to detailed information on more than 570 hotels across 16 countries in Asia Pacific. The app displays the hotels’ event and leisure facilities, supported by full-screen images and brand and loyalty information. “This really is the best way to always have the most up-to-date details on Accor hotels in the region, because the information is automatically updated as our network continues to grow,” Accor director of marketing support for Asia Pacific Michael Parsons said. The new app is part of the group’s sustainability commitment, Planet 21. 6
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Similar to its iPad version, it offers a paperless directory that also allows users to download content for offline usage. The app is available for download via bit.ly/accorapp-android for Android users or bit.ly/accorapp for iPad users.
HONG KONG Langham Place, Mongkok, Hong Kong has been awarded EarthCheck’s Silver Certified status for successfully reporting its environmental footprint to independent auditors and adhering to internationally-recognised sustainability standards. General manager Shaun Campbell said: “By going through the process of attaining the EarthCheck certificate, we were able to measure the effectiveness of our sustainability practices and review the areas that require further improvement.” The hotel has implemented a variety of environmentally-friendly features such as energy-saving heat pumps to recovering heat from chillers and supplying hot water to guestrooms. Its restaurants and bars use fresh herbs from its organic herb garden, food waste and cooking oil are recycled, while menus are available on iPads. It is also the first hotel in Hong Kong offering to pump up guests’ electrical vehicles at the hotel car park’s electric vehicle charger at no cost. The hotel is in partnership with non-profit organisations such as UNICEF, the Hong Kong Playground Association and Half the Sky Foundation to support community development.
news
Technology PALME 2011 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre.
turn it on An event that lays out a varied spread of the industry’s professional AV, lighting, system integration and entertainment technology offerings is returning to Southeast Asia.
Networking session at PALME 2011.
Show floor.
Story by Kristie Thong
Technology can offer events something different. Apart from engaging content, and seamless logistics and infrastructure translating into well-executed events, integrating the right professional technological tools can help bring experiences to a whole new level. An international trade exhibition on professional audio-visual (AV), lighting, system integration, music software and entertainment technology is returning to Singapore this July. PALME Asia 2013, taking place at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre of Marina Bay Sands from July 17-19, was first held in 2011. This year, it will be featuring over 150 brands and companies from over 30 countries spread over an estimated 5000 square metres of exhibition space. It will also be held concurrently with INSTALL Asia 2013 and LED Asia 2013, which will showcase of AV installation and systems
integration technologies and applications for commercial and residential projects, and an exhibition on LED technologies respectively. The exhibition, combined with seminars and hands-on training workshops, will focus on six emerging trends in Southeast Asia, including live event staging, LED technology, architectural lighting and more. According to exhibitor Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd marketing manager Dina Menon, something as simple as unveiling a new vehicle model can transform into an impressive show with the correct use of lighting and sound integrated into the launch. “The effects give the additional ‘wow’ factor which brings any live show to a different level, and thus gives it a lasting impression,” she said. There is a misconception that the use of professional or advanced technology involves a high cost, while excessively fancy
Industry Night Party at PALME 2011.
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Educational seminar.
effects may distract audiences from the message the event is trying to bring across. “Depending on the complexity of the event, more premium products might be required,” exhibitor Analog Way regional sales manager Lawrence Wai said. He added that technology costs used to be high but have now become more affordable due to an increase in demand. Contrary to belief that technology is used to create elaborate effects, technology can help improve the event experience in a subtle but impactful way. For example, technology can improve the reach within a large function space by providing a larger screen and quality live telecasts around the room. “Keying in subtitles during the live event will [also] cater to a wider range of audiences,” Mr Wai said. “Anything excessive is never good. But using the latest technology will complement the event some way or another,” he added.
Technology
Grand move
The acclaimed Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, having grown in visitor numbers, faced the added challenge this year to help attendees navigate around the new and larger venue, Fira Gran Via. Story by Leila Botham
Few will disagree that mobile technology has come to pervade almost all aspects of life. Being “plugged in” has become a vital part of everyday life, within both the private and business spheres. From Facebook to Linkedin, Google Maps to online banking, the most basic daily tasks are now accessed via your phone. The numbers are mind-boggling. The mobile industry contributes US$1.6 trillion (2.2 per cent) to global GDP. For the period through 2017, the mobile industry will invest US$1.1 trillion in capital expenditure and will contribute US$2.6 trillion to public funding. It is estimated that in five years, companies across the mobile industry will employ nearly 10 million people globally. So it is no surprise that the World Mobile Congress held annually in Barcelona attracts some 72,000 attendees and 1700 exhibiting companies. The Mobile World, organised by the GSMA, is recognised as the mobile industry’s must-attend event. It attracts executives from the world’s largest and most influential mobile operators,
software companies, equipment providers, Internet companies and media and entertainment organisations, as well as government delegations from across the globe. micenet ASIA spoke with the event director of the World Mobile Congress Eulàlia Ripoll Giralt. Responsible for managing the entire event, Ms Giralt works with a very large cross-functional team at the GSMA, as well as several third-party companies and local stakeholders such as the Catalan government and City Council. Tell us a little about the mobile industry. Mobile is a vibrant and evolving industry at the heart of everyday life for billions of people around the world. With the number of mobile subscribers standing at 3.2 billion people, nearly half of the world’s population now uses mobile communications.
Eulàlia Ripoll Giralt.
Mobile World Congress includes an industry-leading conference with C-level speakers from around the world; an exhibition showcasing innovative mobile technologies, products and services; a developer-focused programme; a government and ministerial programme; as well as sponsored educational programmes and free seminars. What are the key objectives of the congress and how do you achieve them? Each year, we strive to deliver an event that is vibrant, exciting and insightful, while continually meeting the requirements of the ever-expanding mobile ecosystem. Mobile World Congress has grown significantly over the past eight years since it moved from Cannes to Barcelona, from micenet Asia
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Technology
Exhibition floor at the Mobile World Congress.
51,000 attendees in 2006 to more than 72,000 in 2013. At the same time, the industry has changed dramatically, with new technologies, products and services introduced every year. We focus on making Mobile World Congress the place that people come to do business. Critical to this is providing the right mix of exhibition, conference and educational opportunities, and of course, business development and networking. We spent a lot of time reviewing each of the programmes comprising the event, and in developing new event elements. What are some of the main challenges when organising the congress? As you can imagine, the sheer size of the event, with more than 72,000 attendees this year, requires significant planning. We work very hard across all areas of the business – sales, operations, customer care and marketing, etc. – to ensure that attendees are well-prepared to visit Mobile World Congress and that they will have an outstanding experience. This year presented new challenges, as we moved to our new home, Fira Gran Via in Barcelona. It was very exciting to move into a new, larger and more modern space and to see all of the new opportunities for us here, but after being in one location for so long and being so familiar with the Montjuïc venue, it took a lot of preparation. 10
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Can you tell us one story about how you overcame a potential problem for the 2013 congress? I think getting our attendees acclimated to our new venue posed a potential challenge – we had been at the old venue in Montjuïc for seven years, and Fira Gran Via is larger and, of course, laid out differently. We addressed this in several ways. We held many exhibitor days at Fira Gran Via, where our exhibitors had the opportunity to come and visit the new venue months in advance to get an understanding of how the venue is laid out, where things would be located at Mobile World Congress, how far apart things were, etc., and this helped a great deal. Our marketing team also developed on online New Venue Orientation that included: a “Virtual Fly-Thru” feature that took viewers on a virtual “walk” through Fira Gran Via; a “Where Is It?” feature showing where various event features could be found; a “Transportation and Logistics” feature to share the location and type of transportation options; and a “Travel Times” map that could calculate the estimated time required to move around the venue, helpful to attendees in planning their schedule. What is next for you and the congress? We conduct both internal and external debriefs – internal with members of all of
the teams that contribute to the event, to understand the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats across each element of the event, and then externally, with many of our key clients, to understand what they thought worked, and what didn’t. All of these goes into our planning for next year’s event, and this begins about a month after the event itself. As we just moved to our new home, Fira Gran Via, and as we move into the 2014 event, we’ll be looking at how we can utilise the space throughout our venue even better, and we of course are always looking at new event elements that we can introduce that will deliver even greater value and create an even better experience for our attendees.
The numbers • 72,000 attendees from 200 countries • Over 50 per cent hold C-level positions • Over 4300 CEOs • 1700 exhibitors • 94,000 square metres of exhibition and hospitality space • 3400 international media and analysts • 143 government delegations and intergovernmental organisations
Q&A
Second coming for Luxperience HELEN LOGAS LUXPERIENCE FOUNDER
What was the impetus behind the creation of Luxperience? Australia was lacking an established event that promoted high-end experiential travel. We decided to fill the gap by establishing Luxperience. The region has developed significantly in its offering of luxury and high-end experiential product. We identified an opportunity to raise the region’s profile in the global travel market. The region has excellent products such as luxury lodges, unique tours and cultural activities that cannot be experienced anywhere else in the world. We wanted to help these travel products and experiences compete with some of the more established players. Also, the Australian market has developed into a significant source market of high net worth travellers for both established and up-and-coming tourism destinations. Australians are high spenders, long stayers and keen worldwide travellers. THE MICE industry in Australia is also increasingly interested in developing bespoke itineraries for high-end incentives. Luxperience provides a great platform to source new luxury and experiential products to satisfy this growing demand.
High-end experiential travel returns to Sydney later this year in the form of the Luxperience exhibition. Brad Foster spoke to founder Helen Logas on the concept.
What are the dates and venue for this year’s event? The event begins on Sunday, September 1 with our Thought Leaders program - a selection of inspiring business presentations. This is followed by the business exchange beginning on Monday which runs for three days. It will be held at the Overseas Passenger Terminal which overlooks Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House. It’s an ideal location to inspire high-end experiential travel. This will be the second Luxperience exhibition. What will change from the 2012 event? We had a great formula in 2012. We’ve made some operational enhancements. The overall event will be close to double the size this year. We’re working with a range of new and highly enthusiastic partners such as Air New Zealand, Destination New South Wales, Sydney Town Hall, Decorative Events, The Star, along with our inaugural partners Virgin Australia, who are supporting us again in 2013. Tourism Australia is an active supporter. This year there will be even greater opportunities to write a lot of business.
How does Luxperience differ from other travel-related exhibitions? Only targeted and highly qualified exhibitors and buyers focused on the luxury and experiential travel industry are invited to attend Luxperience. We focus not only on leisure travel specialists but also corporate travel specialists who are looking for unique high-end meeting and incentive ideas. Our exhibitors are from around the world not just Australia. The range of networking events open to both buyers and exhibitor delegates takes place over the three days of Luxperience 2013 and allows for a larger number of business connections. We are running exclusive famil programs in Australia and New Zealand with the support of our airline partners Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand. These allow buyers to experience the luxury products in this part of the world. In future years we hope to expand these opportunities to other areas in the Australasia and Pacific region. Who should attend and why? Products wishing to have an impact and develop relationships in the high-end experiential market should definitely have a presence at Luxperience. We are targeting and attracting new and innovative buyers. Many exhibitors simply wouldn’t have met them before. Meeting planners and incentive operators looking for new and unique ideas for exclusive itineraries should also attend.
To learn more visit www.luxperience.com.au. micenet Asia
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Geared up
to drive change
The IT-savvy Gen Y is likely to be the players to successfully steer the events industry on the roadmap towards zero waste… as long as they are permitted to do some self-promotion along the way. Story by Rob Cotter
As planet MICE continues to revolve it continues to evolve, meaning a burgeoning Gen Y influence into a 21st century of fresh challenges. To be able to embrace this brave new world and judge just how the future might fare under their steer, it is important to gauge whether this generation is geared up for the challenges facing the industry today. A current high-profile global initiative provides an illuminating case in point.
Time to Waste In February this year, the UK’s Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) published a roadmap to zero waste for the events industry. Setting out a step-by-step
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guide on how to minimise waste at events, the roadmap was built from the resource management plan (RMP) they developed for the London 2012 Olympics. The success of this initiative was reflected in British Standard BS8901, developed specifically for the Games, becoming international standard ISO 20121 in April 2012, with the explicit aim of globalising and accelerating event waste minimisation through allocating more focus and time to waste. As the spur for countries to plot their own roadmaps, this new international standard can help the global event industry take a huge step forward in waste minimisation. For this to happen quickly and effectively, however, it will need skilled
Gen Y likes to be ‘seen’ to be doing green things and you can witness a lot of this on Facebook, for example. So it’s probably less of an altruistic impulse and more of a ‘look at me caring for the planet’ moment.” ROB DAVIDSON UNIVERSITY OF GREENWICH SENIOR LECTURER IN EVENT MANAGEMENT
Global Watch
drivers and co-pilots to navigate the course towards their ultimate destination of zero waste, one that Gen Y will be tasked with leading us to. “As a representative of this generation, we have already been almost brainwashed about how to deal directly with waste,” Slovenia’s Soca Outdoor Festival director Jan Klavora said. “We were raised like that, something that our parents weren’t. Young people are really aware of using the best materials for reducing carbon waste; we want to use them.” “One of the themes that come through most with Gen Y is the whole green movement being driven by people of that generation,” University of Greenwich senior lecturer in event management Rob Davidson agreed. “It’s something that they care about and they like to see evidence within venues of sustainability and recycling, as well as energy conservation and other measures like that. And it’s set to continue, as it’s in their DNA; they’re wired like this.” Wired genetically as well as technically, Klavora was eager to stress how the IT-savvy side of Gen Y is already playing a major part in indirectly helping reduce industry waste towards its zero target. “We are already using new technology that automatically brings positive effects to
the sustainability of events,” he asserted. “My main focus in organising an event is to include best technology, through which we indirectly reduce some carbon waste. We are also aware that it is a good marketing opportunity to use materials that are carbon neutral; we are not used to having ‘hard’ copies, as we prefer to have information via smartphones or tablets, so this is a really important indirect effect.” Yet with the technology and temperament in place as a platform to build towards zero waste, Gen Y hasn’t forfeited the pragmatism to identify that an event must remain first and foremost profitable. “It is also a matter of balancing costs as part of this, but where there is an opportunity and a profit logic for it, I will always strive to eliminate waste and engage environmentally friendly initiatives,” Klavora said.
Driven to make a recorded difference So, subject to profit considerations the global goal of achieving zero waste in the industry appears to be in safe hands when it comes to Gen Y proactively taking it forward then. Or does it? “It’s not so clear cut,” Davidson said. “Gen Y likes to be ‘seen’ to be doing green things and you can witness a lot of this on Facebook, for example. So it’s probably less of an altruistic impulse and more of a ‘look at me caring for the planet’ moment.” “Gen Y is always looking at what they would gain if they do something,” Klavora agreed. “They… we always look at things with an eye to what we would gain. So
when we do something good, we will want videos to use as self-promotion.” In achieving the overall better ends of the industry, however, Davidson considers that as long as it gets to where it needs to be, if it means some self-promotion along the way on Gen Y dominated media then this isn’t a compromising issue. “If your self-interest is a motivating factor - and it seems to motivate this generation quite considerably, which sets them apart from the 1960s generation - then it doesn’t really matter how we get to zero waste,” he stated. “There’s a motivation to get there and to be seen to be getting there, with a difference that the world will know about the green gestures of waste minimisation and at the same time it will take the industry to its goals.” “The green theme comes up again and again with Gen Y,” he continued. “It’s a strong trend and it’s encouraging. The phrases that they keep using are that they’re driven to make a difference and driven to leave something behind.” The view of industry insiders is that Gen Y has the skill and the will to propel industry changes towards zero waste, as long as there is a bit of licence for self-promotion along the way. Whilst being driven to make a difference, on this occasion we can hope that they may be driven to leave nothing behind but a video or two, which in aiming for zero waste would be mission accomplished. Planet MICE is on course to become much greener – just stick to the map and follow the navigators of the future.
http://www.wrap.org.uk/content/zero-waste-events Rob Davidson will be presenting a talk on “What does Generation Y want from your Association?” at the Union of International Associations’ Round Table from 23-24 October at Singapore’s Suntec International Convention Centre.
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Associations
Room to groom SUMATE SUDASNA TICA PRESIDENT
The recently re-elected president of the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA) feels the association remains a relevant key MICE driver following a shift in focus. Compiled by Sirima Eamtako
What is TICA? TICA was established in 1984, and has been playing an important role in marketing Thailand. Before the establishment of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), we have attended tradeshows and attracted MICE events on behalf of the country. Our funding comes from membership fees with a matching dollar from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and subsequently a fixed allocation from TCEB. Is TICA still relevant now that TCEB is in the picture? Of course! We are committed to our members. With TCEB in the picture, we have shifted our role to training. Our Executive Committee members comprise industry veterans and are committed to their “non-pay” tasks. To name a few, we have general manager of Regent Resort Cha am – Hua Hin Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk to oversee marketing activities, general manager of Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridien Hotel Goh Choo Leng to lead services development, and our home-grown young entrepreneur Max Jantasuwan to lend his expertise at PR and membership tasks. What’s on the card for TICA in your third term (2013-2015) as president? We are pushing TICA to elevate our training activity on a macro scale. Starting with the
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bi-annual Convention Promotion Seminar (CPS), we plan to organise two specific events for local host committees from two sectors – meetings and events, and conventions. We also plan to increase our digital marketing activities, and we are in the process of sourcing for funds and determining how to use a minimum amount for maximum benefit. What’s in it for TICA members, and in turn, for the Thai MICE industry? With seven or eight seminars conducted by experienced MICE industry professionals every year, focusing on topics such as marketing, sales and development, our members can apply the lessons learnt in their work. Our CPS event can be considered an indirect marketing approach because we train selected local host committees on how to bid for events to be held in Thailand. The last CPS was held in Chiang Mai in 2011 for 120 delegates. The next one is due this year in September in Phuket. What are your concerns when TICA organises trainings and seminars? That those attending our events are not the decision makers. If we organise training programmes that offer best practices on how to handle certain markets, the methods will never be applied if the decision makers do not attend and continue to use a single approach to all
markets. Hence, we try to encourage our members to send decision makers to our trainings and seminars. What are the challenges and opportunities for the MICE industry in Thailand? The global financial situation seems to be in a status quo at the moment, and if it continues for the next six months, we should see the market coming back by fall or winter. Thailand will continue to be one of the most preferred MICE destinations as long as our political situation remains stable.
Associations
Fresh eyes at SACEOS JANET TAN-COLLIS SACEOS PRESIDENT
The newly-appointed president of the Singapore Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS) speaks of the evolving focus of MICE and shares her vision for the local events industry.
We are now at a defining and refining moment in the evolution and status of the Singapore MICE and events-based association. Defining – the 14th SACEOs president has been nominated, and for the first time in 34 years, a president that is not an exhibition organiser. This is evidence that the MICE and events markets are changing! Having said this, I have served as an officer of SACEOS over the last decade, and it is a privilege and honour to be elected to serve as president for the next two years. I see myself continuing to promote the SACEOS cause – to be the lead organisation that promotes and enhances Singapore as a premier hub for the global MICE and events industries. What seemed to have fallen nicely in place, by a stroke of fate and good luck, is to have with me an Exco that comprises “young champions” from the different disciplines of the MICE industry. These are successful, talented, passionate, but most of all committed and ever-ready to work
hard with me to progress SACEOS into the future. In my term as president, the majority of the new Exco members who have come on board are from the exhibition sector. Refinement - relooking at what is needed at base camp. The previous Exco, in close collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board, had identified a talent to take on the executive director role, and this will happen in the third quarter of June. We have just launched our renewed website and it promises to be more interactive and relevant in the coming months. Please look at www.saceos.org.sg or www.saceos.com
There is an air of rejuvenation, optimism and excitement within SACEOS. An eagerness to find definitive solutions to outstanding issues and to sustain Singapore as a destination of choice for the MICE industry.”
The new Exco will do its best to uphold and enhance the following core SACEOS’ activities and “raisons d’etre”, such as: 1. Promote the development of the MICE Industry and to support its growth. 2. Encourage and maintain the highest ethical standards of business conduct and professionalism within the Industry 3. Promote collaboration and co-operation within the industry in all matters of common interest and to provide for and facilitate the interchange of views and information. 4. Represent the industry in all matters internationally and locally whether in relation to any government or government agency, other association or body, or media or the public. There is an air of rejuvenation, optimism and excitement within SACEOS. An eagerness to find definitive solutions to outstanding issues and to sustain Singapore as a choice destination for MICE.
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Shining brighter Marina Bay Sands continues to outperform on Asia’s business events platform by staying ahead of green initiatives, new technology, and a dedicated MICE rewards programme. Story by Kristie Thong
Marina Bay Sands (MBS) has been the star of the spectacular Singapore skyline since 2010. Its three 55-storey hotel towers combine more than 2500 luxury hotel rooms, topped by a 340-metre Sands SkyPark featuring lush gardens and a 150-metre infinity pool. The MICE-led integrated resort is also home to a 120,000-square metre convention and exhibition centre, a lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum, two theatres, and a luxury shopping mall, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. MBS has attracted much interest within the business events industry for its integrated and expansive facilities. In 2012 alone, it hosted 51 tradeshows and exhibitions. “I think it was significant because a lot of these tradeshows were either returning to Singapore because of the size of our venue, or coming to Singapore for the first time,” Las Vegas Sands Corp. senior vice-president worldwide sales and resort
Entertainment at Marina Bay Sands the Phantom of the Opera.
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marketing Asia, John Mims, says. MBS hosted the Young President Organization’s Global Leadership Summit in 2012, and the event was significant as it comprised leaders in their respective fields and each of them “a potential customer bringing their corporate meetings and incentive trips if they return”. “It was very prestigious because they are the best of the best,” Mr Mims says. The integrated resort saw last October as its busiest month, hosting a record 13 tradeshows at the Sands Expo and Convention Center from the likes of the 5th World Architecture Festival, 100% Design, the prestigious hedge-fund SkyBridge Capital’s SkyBridge Alternatives Conference and TravelRave 2012. “We didn’t just start off strong. There’s always that concern that the shiny penny isn’t shiny anymore. But when you look at October and how we finished in the fourth quarter so strong, it gives us a very good outlook on 2013,” he says. MBS has already hosted 15 tradeshows from January to March this year, and he believes the number is expected to grow further in 2013. Promotion efforts are not slowing down, as MBS continues to focus its attention on markets such as Taiwan, Shanghai, Beijing, Australia and North America through dedicated roadshows. “We’re also working together with Sands’ Macao properties, especially in the overseas markets, to let our customers understand our integrated resorts, because it’s still a relatively new concept.”
ITB Asia reception on the SkyPark.
Best of both worlds Mr Mims believes MBS is able to win the hearts of event organisers due to a combined offering of meeting facilities and entertainment. “Everyone has a meetings offering, but not everyone has the facilities that we do. We can host small intimate meetings of four to 10 people in our boardrooms, but also 30,000 people. “We can also talk about the Lion King or Phantom of the Opera. We can have these entertainers at your meeting, or provide special entertainment for meetings.” As an integrated resort that has achieved several third-party environmental certifications for its sustainability efforts, MBS takes great pride in its ECO360 Green Meetings programme, which is part of the Las Vegas Sands’ overall sustainability programme, the Sands Eco 360 Global Sustainable programme.
We didn’t just start off strong. There’s always that concern that the shiny penny isn’t shiny anymore. But when you look at October and how we finished in the fourth quarter so strong, it gives us a very good outlook on 2013.”
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Meeting planners interested in environmentally-friendly events can work with one of MBS’ Green Meeting Concierges to integrate Sands’ standard sustainability practices into events, from resource conservation procedures and paper reduction programmes to waste diversion and indoor air quality management. At the end of an event, the Green Meeting Concierge will present a Sands ECO360° Event Impact Statement to the client post-event, detailing information about their event’s impact on the environment, including energy consumption, water use and waste diversion rates. Mr Mims says that less than 20 per cent of event bookers across all Sands properties require sustainability in their Request for Proposals, but almost every customer’s talking about it. “It’s not as required as price and space, but meeting planners are all aware of it, and it’s still growing in acceptance in the industry. When we push for it and show that we can be environmentally-friendly and also save money, meeting planners will take it up.”
Propelling to greater heights A huge part of MBS’ sustainability efforts now involves its latest initiative – its conference app. “What we’ve created across all our properties is a conferencing app that customers can use. It’s already pre-set and pre-designed to use at MBS,” Mr Mims says.
Young President Organization’s opening dinner.
Hospitality suite at MBS.
Available on iOS and Android systems and compatible with most smartphones and tablet PCs, it provides planners and event attendees key features such as event schedules, a scheduling calendar, access to speaker presentations and profiles, a messaging feature and destination and venue information. An interactive GPS is also included to navigate delegates straight to a booth or another location within the events floor. Additionally, the backend content management system gives conference organisers free reign to upload schedules and other supporting documents. “It’s great technology, saves a lot of paper, and makes it a lot more efficient.” With a booming MICE success comes a new component within MBS’ loyalty programme for event bookers. Sands Rewards Meetings, available exclusively to MICE customers, allows organisers to earn rewards when they host events, dine, shop and entertain within the integrated resort. The rewards can be redeemed at future events as well as over 175 Sands Rewards outlets across the property, including hotel rooms, parking, restaurants and retail outlets.
YPO showcase.
[Sustainability is] not as required as price and space, but meeting planners are all aware of it, and it’s still growing in acceptance in the industry. When we push for it and show that we can be environmentallyfriendly and also save money, meeting planners will take it up.” JOHN MIMS LAS VEGAS SANDS CORP. SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT WORLDWIDE SALES AND RESORT MARKETING ASIA
“It’s a financial incentive for [event bookers] to continue to use the property,” Mr Mims says. Sands Rewards Meetings members will also be let in on several member-only privileges including dining events, discounts at selected retail outlets at The Shoppes and access to pre-sale theatre tickets and exhibitions. “We’re very interested in rewarding and recognising our loyal customers, and that’s why we invest in initiatives like this.”
Guests enjoying cocktails on the launch of Men’s Fashion Week Singapore 2012 at Marina Bay Sands.
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Singapore
A day in the life of… Josie Sinni micenet ASIA spends a day with an Australia-based events specialist and finds out why Singapore is the ideal destination for her 700-pax conference and how she works with her team to ensure her delegates will get the most out of the experience. Josie Sinni is the events manager for Esri Australia. Esri is the global leader in Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. About the event Name: Asia Pacific User Conference (APUC) Date: November 2013 Where: Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre Expected number of delegates: 700 Singapore has won itself the status as Asia’s Top Convention City for more than a decade in the global rankings of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). Along with being one of the safest countries in the world, its staggering skyline boasting superior infrastructure and seamless logistics allows event organisers to host top-notch events with few concerns. Despite rumours of the city having reached its prime, Singapore continues to impress with additions in the form of integrated complex Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay and an efficient delivery ethic only expected of the best convention city. Through a day of site inspections and meetings spent with an events manager from Geographic Information Systems (GIS) solutions company Esri Australia, micenet ASIA publisher El Kwang learns of the steadfast confidence event bookers have in the garden state. 18
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Nothing gives a publisher more pleasure than to network with a pool of professional event specialists and understand what drives their passion. At a recent tradeshow, Josie Sinni, a supporter of micenet magazines for years, invited me to spend a day with her. When I heard that our rendezvous was going to be in Singapore, the answer was an immediate yes! Our itinerary started at 9:15 in the morning with a briefing conducted with Esri Australia’s communication team, followed by a site inspection of the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre and a few hotels within the precinct. Why was Singapore chosen as the destination for the conference? Josie explained that Singapore is home to many businesses and government agencies that value the usage of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. It holds the status as a truly global city and boasts one of the world’s largest airports – which offer
Exhibition Area of Ozri 2012.
convenience for attendees travelling from all over the world. The colour and vibrancy of Singapore as a city is hard to beat; its rich and unique cultural flavour coupled with its reputation for being a “high-tech” city makes it a desirable destination for one of the world’s leading technology conferences. Singapore has a vast range of activities to offer – from commercial to leisure – it really is the perfect hybrid of a business centre and a relaxing getaway. Cleanliness and the common use of the English language are also appealing to Esri’s conference delegates, Josie told me, adding that the team “looks for state-ofthe-art venues which are impeccable in appearance - but also provide functionality in terms of offering a range of AV features, catering to a high-tech set-up”.
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Singapore
Josie Sinni, events manager at Esri Australia.
“It’s important to select a venue that is a drawcard in itself – we look for venues which will inspire our GIS gurus, and will stimulate our attendees to get excited about technology and GIS solutions. Our chosen venue, Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre, has been closed for eight months for a major refurbishment, so we are confident the venue will be looking its very best on the day of the event. Many attendees will be intrigued to see the new venue – and what better opportunity to ‘unveil’ it to them than at APUC.” 15 minutes into the briefing, the team spirit exuded between Josie, her communications team and Singaporebased Samantha Liew was dynamic and organically cohesive. They had a common goal and the confidence that APUC 2013 delegates would experience the unexpected and that they would return in 2014 for more. Here I was thinking: “Wow! The end result is truly where one should start when planning an event!” To Josie, hard work forms part of the success fabric and wasn’t viewed as something to be feared. Passion was what bounded the team together. During the briefing, I heard comments such as “Everyone in Esri knows the importance of APUC and the impact it has on our business”, and “Nothing happens by chance, everything is calculated from start to go”. The team also expressed
knowledge that Josie was clearly in charge of the event and they were instrumental in supporting the communication of key messages to the audience. From the conversations, I found out that Josie found time to manage all kinds of requests – from a chicken mayonnaise sandwich dietary preference to helicopter transportation – despite having to manage the process and budgets of the event. Most impressively, I got from the briefing that Josie clearly knew what she set out to do and that the management respected her work. I understood that Josie was responsible for four main areas of work at Esri, but she remained humble and shied away from praise from her colleagues despite the amount of responsibility, expectations and achievements. On that note, we embarked on the site inspections and meetings planned for the day. What I observed from the first site inspection was exactly what I was told – that Josie was in charge and would lead the way. I observed Josie’s eyes intensely sweeping the venues from left to right. She asked specific questions and was highly focused on getting answers, yet her communication style was very open and polite. She had a vision and was confident in making changes to her plans to logically suit the objective. She consulted with her colleagues and suppliers throughout the day, making sure everyone was on the same page. Josie commented: “Esri’s APUC 2013 is always a world-class event – it’s my job to ensure this year’s event not only reflects the high standard of previous conferences, but also raises the bar again. Our suppliers play a key role in making this happen – they help ensure Esri’s passion for GIS and professionalism is brought to life through the rollout of the event.” Throughout the day, the suppliers were professional,
hospitable, accommodating and displayed a “can do” attitude; most of all, they were very proud of their product. Josie ensured we had private chat moments throughout the day to speak about her experience. She said her close working relationship with Samantha and the Esri Singapore team was a massive advantage when facing difficulties planning the event. Among the challenges faced, the team was dealing with different currencies and different taxes (which in Singapore includes GST and services taxes) on the financial side of international event management. Josie commented: “In Australia, the majority of our venues have in-house audio suppliers - where everything audio visual is ‘built-in’ to the venue – or arranged by them. In Singapore, most venues require you to always work with an external audio visual supplier to set up any capability – which requires a lot more logistical effort on our behalf.” When I asked Josie what advice she had for her industry colleagues when planning an international event, she said: “Be very prepared. Be very clear on what you want and certainly what you don’t want. Communication transparency and honesty are crucial and seek sound advice”. When asked what she was most impressed with throughout the day, Josie responded, “Pan Pacific and its beautiful Pacific Club!” I have learnt, after spending a day in the life of Josie Sinni, that managing events is a professional skill set. It takes true partnership, passion and discipline to deliver on business objectives. It certainly takes time and proper training to accumulate sufficient experience to know, at one glance, what will and will not work for the target audience – the delegates and exhibitors.
Dinner set-up at Ozri 2012, an event hosted by Esri Australia.
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case study Name oF Event
Organiser Association of Mouth and Foot Painting Artists of the World
Going the
extra mile Meritus Club Suite.
Event Overview The Association of Mouth and Foot Painting Artists of the World (or Vereinigung der Mund-und Fussmalenden Kunstler e.V in Austrian) was founded in 1956. The Meeting of Mouth and Foot Artists is an annual event, rotating in various countries, where artists share and exchange ideas via painting workshops. Singapore was selected for the year, as the focus was on artists in the Asian region. Held in conjunction with the Association of Mouth and Foot Painting Artists Worldwide International Art Exhibition held at Suntec Singapore to promote the artists’ works, the meeting drew 210 delegates and caregivers, out of which 53 were wheelchair-bound.
Execution The hotel provided delegate accommodation and hosted the artist workshops. As the venues had to be wheelchair accessible, elevators were
Hosting an event like this gives all our staff a sense of appreciation for what we have and how we can make things more comfortable for our guests.” SERENE LAW MARINA MANDARIN SINGAPORE DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING
Meeting of Mouth and Foot Artists in Singapore 2012
Classroom-style meeting room.
specially assigned to ensure guests reached specific locations within the hotel in a timely manner. The workshops were held in the function rooms. To avoid damage to the carpets and incur costs to the association, plastic sheets were provided to cover the carpeting. The organisers brought in a portable motorised ramp for wheelchairbound artists to assess the stage, while Marina Mandarin arranged for connecting rooms for organisers to set up a nurse’s room, fully equipped with stretchers and medical equipment. The association required its association flag to be made in Singapore and flown during their event, which the hotel assisted by negotiating and coordinating with the supplier.
Challenges & triumphs Prior to the event, Marina Mandarin Singapore had to assure the association that all guestrooms and function spaces were wheelchair accessible. All room doors, bathroom doors and shower cubicle doors had to be wide enough for wheelchairs to move in and out, while corridors leading to the rooms also had to be wide enough and well-lit. Marina Mandarin also assisted the whole delegation, including those in wheelchairs, in crossing the road between the hotel and Suntec when guests
Venue
Marina Mandarin Singapore
When
May 1-4, 2012
Pax
210
Budget
Undisclosed
AquaMarine Interior.
had to attend the opening ceremony and exhibition. This was done with the assistance of the security solutions company AETOS, which helped stopped traffic for a period of time.
Event feedback Association director and event organiser Franz Moosleithner expressed that the way the hotel provided assistance contributed to the overall success of the event. This was largely attributed to efforts put into making sure the hotel understood the needs of the delegates due to the unique nature of the participants, according to Marina Mandarin Singapore director of sales and marketing Serene Law. “We met the overseas organiser several times to ensure we had the most updated information on any changes to their programme. At each meeting, we took the opportunity to assure them we would be able to deliver whatever they required, whether it was to custom-make their flag or have the rooms and shower facilities accessible to wheelchair-bound delegates.” Ms Law added that the hotel would want to persuade the organiser to host the exhibition within the hotel should space permits in the future. “Hosting an event like this gives all our staff a sense of appreciation for what we have and how we can make things more comfortable for our guests.” micenet Asia
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trending
Eye on the bigger dollar
AsiaWorld-Summit.
Destinations rely on convention and exhibition centres to attract prominent events for an economic boost. Are new and existing venues keeping up with recent market expectations and offering event organisers what they truly need? Story by Kristie Thong
The standard tried and tested event format doesn’t seem to quite cut it these days. Unique venues are more sought after in the marketplace, with clients’ needs going beyond the ballroom and conferences held in large convention centres holding gala ginners or luncheons off-site. But while the shift is apparent, convention and exhibition centres remain relevant because they contribute directly to a country’s economic growth, due to the sheer size of events they are able to support. That said, changing market expectations are prompting convention and exhibition centre owners to rethink their operating models. In recent years, Asia Pacific has seen a surge in the number of new convention and exhibition venues in the region. From the likes of the newly-opened Royal International Convention Centre in Brisbane to the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre slated to open in 2017, the newer venues own their fair share of expansive and flexible space for varying needs, and are also determined to offer event organisers the best technology available. Business Events Council of Australia executive manager Inge Garofani says the Asia Pacific region is lucky with the facilities it has at hand between convention centres and hotels. “However the market is growing and we need to ensure as an industry we are staying in front of the demand.” She cites that almost all convention and exhibition centres in Australia have expanded or will be expanding, as with the case of Sydney Convention & Exhibition 22
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Cocktail set-up at Universal Studios Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa.
Runway Suites, AsiaWorld-Expo.
Ocean Gallery Banquet at S.E.A. Aquarium, Resorts World Sentosa.
Compass Ballroom, Resorts World Sentosa
Centre. But following expansion, the demand would have grown as well. “Governments need to be very forwardthinking in planning sufficient space as the industry continues to grow in this region.” One forward-thinking venue is the Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre. Having hosted some major events for the past 16 years, it is undergoing a major facelift worth S$180 million (US$145 million) and will re-emerge with a modernised façade that pays attention to flexibility, functionality and convertibility while integrating a high degree of advanced technology. The venue is expected to feature an impressive three-storey interactive video wall, on top of new retail outlets on the first and most of the second level, 36 convertible meeting rooms on the third level, and exhibition halls on
CNCC Complex, Olympic Green 1, Beijing.
the fourth that can be converted into premium entertainment spaces through sophisticated design features. Suntec’s re-launch “will certainly attract even more business tourism MICE visitors and events, and enlarge the pie for all players in the market, which we foresee will lead to a positive impact on our business”, Fairmont Singapore and Swissotel The Stamford executive assistant manager of sales and marketing Raymond Tait says. The absence of Suntec in the past year has helped Fairmont’s adjacent convention centre establish itself as one of the leading MICE venues in Singapore. Located in the heart of the city next to a shopping mall with an inventory of over 2000 rooms at Fairmont Singapore and Swissotel The Stamford, the Raffles City Convention Centre offers 70,000 square feet (approximately 6500 square metres)
trending Classroom set-up in Stamford Ballroom, Raffles City Convention Centre.
Royal Jubilee Ballroom, IMPACT.
Auditorium, China National Convention Center.
Many people need/ want a convention centre but do not have a high budget, so centres are often faced with reducing budgets and this can be very difficult.” INGE GAROFANI BUSINESS EVENTS COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA EXECUTIVE MANAGER
of flexible function space. Home to 27 fully-equipped meeting rooms and three grand ballrooms, with the largest capable of accommodating up to 1800 guests banquet-style and 3000 theatre-style, it has hosted noteworthy events such as the first Asian Youth Games, APEC Summit, Youth Olympic Games and Formula One Singapore Grand Prix. Raffles City Convention Centre has also become a fully compliant Eco-Meet Hotel and Meetings Venue since 2009, an accreditation recognising the hotel’s offers to minimise the ecological impact of meetings and events. Along with its two hotels, it also sourced out a local company to provide its waste cooking oil for direct bio-fuel conversion, and is actively engaged in sustainable seafood initiatives. Over at Resorts World Sentosa, its edge is its ability to offer event planners more, by marrying MICE and leisure. As the owner of Southeast Asia’s only Universal Studios theme park and an expansive “oceanarium”, it also boasts a column-free ballroom that seats 6500 delegates and 20 different event venues, along with more than 1500 rooms in six luxury hotels. Resorts World Sentosa vice-president of national MICE and group sales Theresa Gan believes RWS offers event planners an opportunity to take event experiences out of the ballroom. Past after-hours social networking dinners have been hosted at the Universal Studios, S.E.A Aquarium at Marine Life Park, and the waterfront 24
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Noir Glamour Wedding Theme in Fairmont Ballroom, Raffles City Convention Centre.
promenade at the Maritime Experiential Museum. Its destination spa, ESPA at Resorts World Sentosa, also provides 10,000 square metres of luxury relaxation, making it a highlight on a busy conference itinerary for delegates. Hong Kong’s AsiaWorld-Expo, situated close to the international airport, had hosted prominent events such as the Nu Skin Greater China Regional Conference 2012, which saw over 20,000 delegates. Comprising a purpose-built indoor seated AsiaWorld-Arena with a maximum 14,000-pax capacity and the convention and hospitality hall AsiaWorldSummit, it recently saw a need to cater to a wider range of event formats. In December 2012, the Runway Suites was launched, offering 10 soundproof rooms that seat between 8 to 200 theatre-style. “[The Runway Suites] complement in a perfect way by offering a combination of large or small meeting spaces for breakout sessions, which is ideal for events across all industries, particularly for content-rich programmes that require multiple meeting spaces of various sizes,” a spokesperson says. Early this year, AsiaWorld-Expo has also received accolades for its environmental initiatives and a successful reduction in energy consumption. Ms Garofani feels that while there has been a growing expectation for sustainability over the last decades, most venues have heard the call and catered to that. But convention venues ultimately face increasing expectations regarding costs. “Many people need/want a convention centre but do not have a high budget, so centres are often faced with reducing budgets and this can be very difficult.” Additionally, while sustainability and technology are good additions venues provide, she feels they may not be the key when deciding on a convention venue. Bangkok’s IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., Ltd general manager Loy
Joon How says venues need to gear up to meet the needs and expectations of clients, in a climate where MICE-related events are becoming more sophisticated in the way they are staged and the content they offer. IMPACT Muang Thong Thani offers more than 140,000 square metres of event space, comprising four large multi-purpose buildings – IMPACT Arena, IMPACT Exhibition Center, IMPACT Convention Center and IMPACT Challenger Hall – with 12 exhibition and convention halls, one arena hall, two ballrooms, two banquet halls and 52 breakout rooms. “The recent renovation of our old convention centre (now renamed IMPACT Forum) is an example of our commitment to continue to deliver to expectations, by modernising our venue and adding more meeting and function rooms to cater to smaller events and more,” he says. The China National Convention Center in Beijing has hosted over 2000 meetings and events and 199 exhibitions, but its pride is its ability to provide international standard service to event organisers. On top of ensuring its ability in providing international clients with the background technological support for high-tech productions, the venue has also simplified its contracting process. “Chinese law means that a local contract will appear less specific to an international client, compared to the regular international contract they will be used to signing. So China National Convention Center has developed an International Contract that can be signed in English as well as Chinese which includes all the regular details and specifics that they will expect to see,” the venue’s international senior director Jennifer Salsbury says. It has also established an International Business Development Department that explains clearly to clients about protocols when organising events in China, such as VIP invitations, room set-up styles, banquet programmes, and paperwork processes.
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Hidden gem Vietnam’s premier beach city Nha Trang, listed as one of the world’s most beautiful bays, is emerging as a strategic MICE getaway. Story by Samantha Coomber
Beachfront view.
All components are in place for Nha Trang city, located on Vietnam’s South-eastern coast and 441 kilometres north of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), to rise as a prominent regional MICE destination – albeit slowly. “Nha Trang’s emergence as a MICE destination is real and for good reason, offering a venue that appeals to contemporary business culture,” Debbie Chee stated as the former director of sales and marketing (DoSM) for Sheraton Nha Trang. “Toss in the region’s long-standing geographic beauty and cultural attractions, and you’ve got an ideal getaway for corporate outings and events.” As Khanh Hoa Province’s capital, Nha Trang is long established as one of Vietnam’s premier beach vacation spots and fastest-growing destinations, popular with popular with both foreign and domestic visitors. Its seven-kilometre-long municipal beach, sandwiched between soaring mountains and off-shore islands, lies in a bay officially ranked in 2003 as the “29th member of the World’s Most Beautiful Bays Club”. Nha Trang boasts the country’s highest coral reef biodiversity and abundant marine 26
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life, and some of Vietnam’s best diving spots, excellent seafood restaurants, diverse cultural attractions and downtown only a short distance from the beach. Additionally, Nha Trang offers a range of group activities from therapeutic mud baths to bamboo basket boats. With metropolises HCMC and Hanoi suffering worsening traffic and congestion, traffic and congestion, coastal destinations offering greater scenic value offering greater scenic value and space, served by domestic airports, seem to be the way forward for Vietnam’s MICE market – including Nha Trang, a 40-minute flight from HCMC served by Cam Ranh International Airport (35 kilometres away).
“Nha Trang is the hot beach destination for domestic MICE and corporate groups and also for specific international groups, such as Australia and Russia,” Sheraton Nha Trang DoSM Mandy Tran Thi My Dung states. “Particularly, incentive market clients now choose HCMC and Nha Trang.”
Nha Trang is the hot beach destination for domestic MICE and corporate groups and also for specific international groups, such as Australia and Russia.” MANDY TRAN THI MY DUNG SHERATON NHA TRANG DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING
Long Son Pagoda.
Vietnam Rooms with views Well-equipped hotels are often key to successful MICE business in Vietnam. Opened in 2008, the 342-room Diamond Bay Resort located between Cam Ranh Airport and Nha Trang made the first in-road with a 7000-pax convention centre, 1782-square-metre Banquet Hall, conference rooms, two private beaches suitable for team-building events, and Nha Trang’s first 18-hole course. The same year saw the launch of four-star Novotel Nha Trang with its 200-square-metre sea-view Bellevue Meeting Room. “[Our] MICE business constitutes around 6-8 per cent of business from mostly domestic and Asian markets,” DoSM Nguyen Thuy states. However, Nha Trang’s first internationally-branded five-star hotel Sheraton Nha Trang is still the biggest MICE player in town. Since opening in 2010, it has established itself as a topclass MICE venue with some of Vietnam’s most impressive meeting facilities.
The 30-storey, 284-room flagship hotel, located downtown along the beachfront promenade, has helped elevate this provincial city’s appeal as a MICE destination. “Sheraton offers the biggest MICE facilities in town,” Ms Tran states. “Our MICE market constitutes approximately 30 per cent of total business, mainly meetings, conferences and international incentives from local corporate groups and Australia.” There are nine meeting rooms with 1600 square metres of flexible function and meeting space. The pillar-less 340-squaremetre Grand Ballroom and bay-facing 401-square-metre Yersin Ballroom are both divisible and provide a natural-light foyer area, along with 11 breakout rooms all backed by advanced audio-visual and telecommunications. The 28th floor Altitude, the city’s highest bar, allows for sky-high cocktail-and-canapés functions, while themed dinners can be hosted on the sixth storey pool side. In addition, a new four-day itinerary schedule, including
Bellevue Meeting Room, Novotel Nha Trang.
It’s still a second-line meeting destination choice, or even third – considering Danang with its major hotel development after HCMC and Hanoi – and is dominated by domestic markets, invariably combined with beach stays.” GEORGE EHRLICH ADAM EXOTISSIMO VIETNAM GENERAL MANAGER
Vietnam’s first purpose-built in-hotel cooking school, is available for incentive groups. North of the city in Turtle Bay, the allnew luxury resort Amiana offers six meeting rooms and two ocean terraces, and room for group activities from its cooking school, watersports centre and golf driving range. Off Nha Trang’s coastline, Hon Tre Island is dominated by VinPearl Land, a massive entertainment-accommodationtourism complex complete with a 5000-seater amphitheatre, and accessible via boat or via Vietnam’s first sea-crossing cable car. Vinpearl Resort, with an event hall (accommodates 1350 guests) and a divisible grand ballroom, is joined by Vinpearl Luxury Nha Trang, a new resort with 84 suites and villas and an IMGdesigned 18-hole championship course. Among future developments is IHG’s Crowne Plaza, which is delayed infinitely but may be upgraded to an InterContinental; the 21-storey Star City opening late 2013 promising “condotel” units and events facilities; and a UAEbacked Vietnamese-Swiss joint venture behind a massive six-star resort-villa project in north Cam Ranh peninsula. BEST Western International’s (BWI) Hon Tam Resort is now accompanied by the five-star BEST Western Premier Hon Tam Resort & Residences with meeting rooms and a 900-pax outdoor venue. There is a new three-star Best Western Sea & Sun downtown and a recentlyopened Best Western Premier Havana along the beach promenade. At 41 storeys with over 1000 rooms, the latter is micenet Asia
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Vietnam considered Vietnam’s largest five-star and first “condotel”, with event facilities such as a fourth floor 1500-seat restaurant, multi-sized meeting rooms, the Sky Bar Restaurant and a duplex VIP Lounge Club on the top floor next to a helipad.
High tide MICE is a growing market in Nha Trang, and recent international events hosted – including ASEAN and APEC Summit – related meetings – indicate the city’s capabilities. However, it has a long way to go to reach its potential. Not only is it overshadowed by Hanoi and HCMC, the rapidly-ascending Danang is also a mighty contender. “Realistically, Nha Trang can’t compete with HCMC or Hanoi for MICE business,” Exotissimo Vietnam general manager George Ehrlich Adam says. “It’s still a second-line meeting destination choice, or even third – considering Danang with its major hotel development after HCMC and Hanoi – and is dominated by domestic markets, invariably combined with beach stays.” “Most MICE groups come to Nha Trang combining meetings and activities,” Novotel DoSM Nguyen Thuy states. “And Nha Trang still can’t replace HCMC, Vietnam’s financial and business centre.” Backed by Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Khanh Hoa tourism’s priority is to develop Nha Trang’s MICE potential by promoting it as a “city of international events” in 2013. In June, Nha Trang will be hosting an international travel tradeshow to showcase Nha Trang Bay and its tourism and MICE services.
340-square-metre Grand Ballroom, Sheraton Nha Trang.
Meanwhile, Cam Ranh Airport’s international status established in 2009 has yet to deliver on potential extra flights and infrastructure. “Air connections and frequency of flights limit the MICE pull; international market development will depend on improved, more frequent air connections,” Mr Adam says. “Nha Trang should also develop quality infrastructure.” Increase in charter flights comes predominantly from Russia – Russians being an increasingly dominant force in Nha Trang’s tourism market – and South Korea. Vietnam Airlines, operating HCMC, Danang and Hanoi flights, has just launched the city’s first direct European flight connection to Moscow, while potential markets actively targeted include
Dinner at Altitude rooftop bar, Sheraton Nha Trang.
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Malaysia, South Korea and Singapore. “Demand from overseas MICE markets should increase when direct international flights start kicking in,” BWI vice-president of international operations for Asia and Middle East Glenn de Souza says. “Driven by an influx of new flights, strong domestic market demand and fastgrowing international reputation, already one of Asia’s most exciting new resort destinations, Nha Trang may soon rival its more established ones.” Sheraton’s Ms Tran summarises: “More international and domestic branded hotels are coming to Nha Trang; with [an increase in] hotels with more conference facilities in addition to existing supplies, we hope more clients consider Nha Trang for MICE business.”
Sixth-storey pool side area, Sheraton Nha Trang.
60 MINUTES
Hanoi in an hour
Vietnamese tunes in a waist-deep pool stage. It’s a fun watch even without reading the subtitles, which are often available in several languages. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in the Old Quarter offers guests several timings throughout the day, but tickets must be booked in advance. Local DMCs will be able to help reserve the best seats for groups.
Hold a cocktail reception at Hanoi Opera House
PHOTO COURTESY OF DESTINATION ASIA
While an hour is hardly enough to take in Hanoi’s millennium of historical and cultural significance, groups looking for some quick post-event ideas can consider these off-the-beaten-track activities in the vibrant city. Compiled by Sirima Eamtako Take a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter Touted as a ride fit for kings and queens, many royal personalities such as the King and Queen of Spain and former French President Jacques Chirac have taken a cyclo. A common means of transportation for shorter journeys, this three-wheel bicycle taxi contains a seat supported by two wheels at the front with the driver seated at the back. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel is a popular starting and finishing point for a one-hour cyclo ride, through some 36 streets in the city’s Old Quarter. En route, shaded by trees, are historical buildings and landmarks, temples, shops, artisan workshops, local eateries, restaurants and bars. There are endless rows of colourful shops selling everything from hair bands to rice flours. Apart from the disturbing fumes from passing vehicles, the area is filled with the aroma of Vietnamese and FrenchVietnamese dishes and the sound of motorists, pedestrians and merchants going about their daily lives. Most DMCs offer group cyclo rides for incentive gatherings.
Built by the French colonial administration at the dawn of the 20th Century, the Hanoi Opera House is one of the many historical landmarks in the city. There are on-going orchestra and ballet performances, which often last more than one hour. The venue, however, offers an ideal setting for a cocktail reception held between busy conference or meeting schedules. Hire a DMC for liaison as it can be tricky securing the permits to use the space. Try top DMCs such as Exotissimo Travel Vietnam, Destination Asia (Vietnam) and Asian Trails Vietnam.
Watch a water puppet show
Organise a cooking class
Water puppetry is a traditional Vietnamese art form and remains one of the highlights of Hanoi. The show offers a peak into the ancient folklore of Vietnam and day-to-day rural living with a humourous twist. Controlled by hidden puppeteers and accompanied by a traditional Vietnamese pit orchestra, wooden puppets perform
It ordinarily takes three hours for a cooking class. However, DMCs can arrange everything and prepare the cooking stations for your incentive high-flyers. Many hotels offer cooking classes, but you can also take your group to dedicated cookery schools, including Vietnam Culinary School and Hanoi Cooking Centre.
Hanoi Opera House.
Water Puppet Theatre.
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Meet & Eat Vietnam Compiled by Samantha Coomber
ALL CHANGE
Hanoi Horison Hotel has reopened last December after a comprehensive overhaul as Pullman Hanoi – Vietnam’s first Pullman and one of the capital’s most modern properties positioned near Hanoi’s
diplomatic area and Giang Vo Exhibition Centre. Its La Cheminée restaurant offers local and internationally-inspired classics, from a sumptuous buffet to fine wines; versatile for functions such as themed dinners (maximum 250 seated) and available for private hire. Lobby-located Mint Bar offers a large yet intimate space available as a cocktail party venue, as does the second-floor pool terrace overlooking the city (200 cocktail-style). Larger events can be accommodated in the 560-squaremetre pillar-less ballroom. Some of its previous customers include the US Embassy and APEC delegates. T : +84 (0)4 3733 0808 W : www.accorhotels.com/7579
SUMMER IN THE PARK
A luxurious colonial-style hotel in HCMC’s central downtown, and recipient of numerous business traveller awards, Park Hyatt Saigon (PHS) offers impeccable service with sophisticated meeting and special event spaces catering to groups of all sizes – with past clients like Estee Lauder and MasterCard.
HS’s new promotions include “Terrace Tapas and Peroni Beers” on Italian Opera Restaurant’s shaded alfresco terrace overlooking the Opera House. These buckets of ice-cold beers and Mediterranean tapas are perfect for post-meeting gatherings. The opera’s terrace offers a semi-private customised dining space for eight to 40 patrons. The spacious balcony off first-floor Square One Restaurant is also available for private groups of up to 120. PHS now offers “Vespa Food Tours” to incentive groups – a fun, interactive way to discover Saigon’s cuisine. T : +84 (0) 8 3824 1234 W : www.parkhyattsaigon.com
CELEBRITY CHEF Restaurant Bobby Chinn Saigon (RBCS) is the new flagship restaurant of the celebrity chef, award-winning TV host, author and restaurateur. Located in a premier business location, it fuses casual yet elegant dining with modern global cuisine, paired with worldclass wines and cutting-edge cocktails. Multi-functional RBCS can tweak layout, ambience and size based on client requirements, assisted by hanging silk drapes. There’s a well-stocked “active” 30
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bar (a destination in itself), indoor-outdoor lounge areas and a central catwalk, with top-notch lighting and sound systems, leading out from the stage. With a maximum capacity of 300 cocktail-style, small group receptions, classroom and sit-down dinners and large promotional branding dinners can be held. Brands hosted here include Chanel and HSBC. T : +84 (0) 8 6291 7788 W : www.bobbychinn.com
SAIGON ROCKS
Neighbours with RBCS, Hard Rock Café (HRC) provides a fun alternative for corporate entertaining with Hard Rock’s distinctive F&B and fully-serviced, customised events venue equipped with superior visual facilities. The basement area incorporates a VIP section, stage and dance zone, and can be privately hired for product launches and networking events for up to 400 guests, while a main dining area holds 200 seated. The ground-level, street-side Blue Lounge bar and patio caters for 110, suitable for cocktail and buffet receptions. HRC’s new focus on promotions aimed at meetings and events includes “New Venue Meeting Packages” (minimum 30) with different value adds. T : +84 (0) 8 6291 7595 W : www.hardrockcafe.vn
trending
Carbon pressure With more companies stressing the need to go green in Asia, practical ways are surfacing for venues and suppliers to give back to the environment and local communities. Story by Kristie Thong
In a 2010 FutureWatch report on a comparative outlook of the global business of meetings and events, 76 per cent of meeting planners reported that corporate social responsibility will be a focus for their organisations. Made up of 1832 members from Meeting Professionals International from 39 countries comprising 967 planners and 813 suppliers, 80 per cent of buyers took environmental results into account when planning an event, while 73 per cent would avoid a destination known to have a poor record of environmental issues. While the survey largely echoed the opinions of meeting and event planners in North America (72 per cent of respondents were from the United States), it displayed an uptake of buyers worldwide slowly inclining towards running events that are environmentally-friendly. Evidently, 80 per cent of respondents felt the environment will become a bigger issue in years to come, while half felt that delegates will become more concerned if environment and social issues are not taken into consideration when organisers plan an event. Suppliers have started providing greener options to event buyers. Convention centres have geared up with third-party accreditation to ensure operations are sustainable, from colourcoded set of bins to encourage waste reduction and recycling, energy-saving light-emitting diode bulbs, to solar panelling. Hotels have also ensured green options are offered to event bookers through efficient measures to save water and electricity, sustainable food sourcing, and paperless meetings.
An increasing number of businesses are realising that sustainability is not only the right thing to do – it also makes good economic sense, according to Climate Friendly Pty Ltd marketing director Sally Castle. “It is an area of tremendous focus in all sectors of the business events industry as companies – from venues, hotels and transport operators through to staging and creative service agencies embrace their commitment to sustainability,” she says. Earthcheck is a familiar global benchmarking and certification programme adopted by convention centres and
hotels in Asia. Owned by international tourism and environmental management and advisory group EC3 Global and currently operating in over 70 countries, it has been researching all aspects of sustainable tourism in the last 25 years while developing indicators for destinations and businesses to measure sustainability in economic, social and environmental terms. EarthCheck vice-president of sales Andre Russ says green accreditation and sustainability efforts are about “managing risks and opportunities, aligning with core business and strategy and providing transparent accountability to stakeholders, employers, consumers, suppliers and local communities”.
When a company supports a high-quality carbon offset project they also support education, job creation and other great benefits for people in developing countries.” SALLY CASTLE CLIMATE FRIENDLY PTY LTD MARKETING DIRECTOR
Guyuan Donxingying Wind Project.
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Is accreditation a must? Four Seasons Singapore director of sales and marketing Austin Watkins says ecotourism and corporate social responsibility are hot in the MICE industry, especially with North American clientele. “They are trying to find a way to not only give back but to create a lasting memory that is unique and destination centric.” But while he has seen an increasing number of sustainable enquiries from event RFPs, they do not necessarily mandate green accreditation. The hotel offers meeting planners sustainable options through its “Greening Meetings” initiative at no additional cost. The programme has an extensive recycling policy where decorations and display materials can be donated to local organisations, dry erase boards used as an alternative to flip charts, and local printing services and suppliers provided to meeting planners for recycled paper printing. Four Seasons Singapore also donates its leftover or gently-used amenities to charitable organisations, while all the hotel’s guestroom and public area lighting have been changed to energy-saving light bulbs and energy-saving air-conditioning units installed as part of an ongoing yearly upgrade. Being a company focused on digital marketing and digital media solutions, Adobe is a strong supporter of green initiatives and usually adheres to environmentally-friendly best practices. But while green accreditation “is a factor to consider when deciding on a venue, it is not a deal breaker”, Adobe
group marketing manager for Southeast Asia Janie Lim says. “Generally, there is also a lack of awareness around how event venues are implementing sustainability practices in Asia. Hotels or event venues do not proactively offer such information to clients,” she adds.
Giving back through carbon offsets Carbon offsetting programmes are starting to see the light of day among venues and suppliers in business events. Known as a great way to get started on the environmental journey, Ms Castle believes that companies can soon see where the best opportunities exist for reducing emissions once such a programme has been established. “These reductions can be through energy efficiency, waste minimisation and sourcing eco-friendly products and caterings, and will most likely lead to cost savings.” Used by businesses of all sizes, carbon offsets offer a simple, immediate and cost-effective way to reduce emissions, often in projects such as wind farms and fuel-switching projects that not only have huge environmental benefits but also a range of social benefits to the communities where they operate. “When a company supports a high-quality carbon offset project they also support education, job creation and other great benefits for people in developing countries,” she says.
According to Ms Castle, carbon offsetting programmes are growing slowly in Southeast Asia, although already widespread in Australia and New Zealand. “As carbon offsetting programmes are established in new markets it is most often lead by companies who have large multinational clients. Most of the world’s big companies have sustainable supplier policies so having an active carbon management and broader environmental strategy is vital for companies wanting to work with them.” Some hotels and other venues have taken on carbon offsetting programmes in the form of tree-planting initiatives, hydropower plants and wind power projects. Hilton Worldwide, for example, measures the carbon emissions of a client event or meeting through its LightStay Meeting Impact Calculator, and purchases carbon credits from its partner, Climate Friendly. Climate Friendly then uses this to fund carbon-friendly projects in the region to offset the carbon emissions generated by the event or meeting. These projects include the Borneo Rainforest Rehabilitation Project, which aims to protect and restore rainforests
Cambodia Cookstoves.
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Borneo Rainforest Rehabilitation Project.
Generally, there is a lack of awareness around how event venues are implementing sustainability practices in Asia. Hotels or event venues do not proactively offer such information to clients.” JANIE LIM ADOBE GROUP MARKETING MANAGER, SOUTHEAST ASIA
currently under threat from logging and plantation development in Sabah, Malaysia, and the Cambodia Cookstove Project which promotes the use of an energy-efficient cook stove which uses 20 to 30 per cent less wood and charcoal for fuel. They are expected to jointly prevent over 300,000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year, while the former has also helped restore 11,000 hectares of rainforest to date. “If you choose a project that aligns with your business and select a reputable supplier, you can have an immediate and meaningful environmental impact while inspiring your customers, staff and suppliers. Many businesses are taking steps to becoming carbon neutral with the help of offsets and supporting a speedier transition to a low carbon future for us all.”
Steps to Successful CSR Programmes 31 Management commitment, including a written environment and social sustainability policy.
Ms Castle feels businesses that anticipate, prepare for change and act early will reap the most benefits in a dynamic economy. “This certainly applies to sustainability initiatives. Pressure is mounting from customers and staff who expect businesses they work with to move with the times and actively work on their sustainability credentials. Even more importantly, carbon pricing and business demands are making it a financial imperative,” she says.
32 Dedicated and trained staff responsible for taking the idea forward and getting others onboard. 33 Be able to quantify the benefits. “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.” 34 Drop the jargon and talk in business terms and have a formal reporting process. 35 Collaborate, don’t dictate. Encourage innovation but don’t get caught in spin. 36 Share the success stories and use your interpersonal skills, not technical data. 37 Authenticity and sense of place. Source: EarthCheck
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Meet me by the Manila Bay
World Trade Center Metro Manila.
While its fabled sunset has inspired countless portraits, poems and paeans for many generations, few people realise that the coastline of Manila Bay is also the cradle of Asia’s now vibrant and bustling MICE industry. Story by Angela Blardony Ureta
As early as 1976, the Philippine government had committed to the development of the convention industry by unveiling the region’s first full-fledged meeting venue, the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), which hosted the International Monetary Fund - World Bank Joint Conference that year as its opening event. Designed by National Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin, the structure is one of the iconic buildings that comprise the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) — a 62-hectare project built on reclaimed land covering the cities of Manila and Pasay. This entire area rose – quite literally – over the waters of Manila Bay and is now home to the country’s major performance, exhibition, entertainment and recreation venues.
Aside from the eponymous CCP, other landmarks in the area include: Folk Arts Theater (built for the 1974 Miss Universe Pageant), Coconut Palace, Star City, Aliw Theatre and Sofitel Philippine Plaza. Further south, we find the World Trade Center Metro Manila, the Philippine Trade Training Center and the Philippine Senate building. Back in the day, the biggest and most important international and regional gatherings in Asia invariably took place in these venues. However, with the emergence of newer, sleeker and more widely-promoted destinations among its neighbours, the Philippines now finds itself engaged in an uphill battle to recover respectable grounds in what has evolved into an incredibly competitive industry.
Staging a comeback In recent years, tourism officials have embarked on an ambitious campaign to entice the world to take a second look at the Pearl of the Orient Seas. Brandishing the catchy slogan “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”, the vibrant images of breathtaking destinations and exciting island adventures drew in a record arrival of over four million tourists last year. Not quite the double digits enjoyed by Singapore, Malaysia or Thailand, but enough to be named “the most improved country in Asia” by the World Economic Forum’s 2013 Travel and Competitiveness Report. For business tourism, however, it’s not exactly the promise of fun that has been drawing attention, but the remarkable
There’s a lot of optimism in the Philippines becoming more competitive as a MICE destination. Now it’s up to us to come up with products and services that will meet the demands of the market and make sure our clients are not disappointed.” CHANELLE GARVEY SOFITEL PHILIPPINE PLAZA DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING 34
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Sofitel Philippine Plaza.
Philippines
Summit Hall D, Philippine International Convention Center.
speed with which the Philippine economy has been on the rise. Last March, for the very first time, New York-based Fitch Ratings raised the country’s credit rating to investment grade — making it not only an exciting tourist destination but also a viable investment destination. Will the growth momentum spark renewed interest in the Philippines amongst global players in the MICE industry? A quick look at what’s been happening over at Manila Bay’s pioneering venues reveals a promise of brighter days ahead.
Host to world leaders Last May, the PICC hosted the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) 45th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors. The event brought together over 4000 delegates comprising ministers of finance and development, central bankers, as well as representatives from the private sector, civil society and media from 67 member countries. Reports said it was the highest attendance recorded in the history of ADB conventions. Being Asia’s first international convention centre, managing high-level events is part of the PICC’s legacy. In the last 37 years, it has hosted important diplomatic, political and economic forums in the Asia-Pacific region such as the IMFWorld Bank Annual Meeting, the World Tourism Organization Congress, the ASEAN Heads of Government Meeting and the APEC Ministerial Meetings, to name a few. “Our advantage is in the availability of numerous event spaces under one roof,” PICC deputy general manager Roberto Garcia says. “We have the most number of meeting and event facilities in the country, with versatile spaces that can be easily divided and transformed.” Most power summits are held at the Plenary Hall, which sits 4000 delegates theatre-style and is equipped with a wireless infrared Simultaneous Interpretation System (SIS) that
Exhibition floor, Philippine International Convention Center.
accommodates seven languages and one floor language at any given time. For social events, the Reception Hall — illuminated by 6000 magnificent crystal chandeliers — provides a luxurious setting for, say, a Luciano Pavarotti dinner concert or a Miss Universe coronation night, in a style befitting of the PICC’s eminence as the “grand dame” of Asian venues.
Managing events and exhibitions is not just about renting out space — it’s about connecting with people. And if there’s anything we Filipinos are good at, it’s building relationships.” PAMELA PASCUAL WORLD TRADE CENTER METRO MANILA VICE PRESIDENT
Bigger spaces, closer ties A licensed franchise of the World Trade Center in New York, the World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM) began operations in 1996 as the first world-class exhibition venue in the Philippines and, to date, the only one listed by the Union des Foires Internationales (UFI), the global association of the exhibition industry. Its exhibition hall has a total floor area of 11,300 square metres and a floor-toceiling height of 10 metres. This allows for flexibility and freedom in even the most complex event layouts, such as two-storey exhibition booth set-ups and sprawling designs. The hangar-like structure has been a regular venue for big events such as Manila FAME (the country’s largest furniture and accessories show), Worldbex, Manila International Auto Show, the Asia Food Expo and the World Food Expo, as well as a number of annual bazaars and trade shows that have called the WTCMM home over the last 17 years.
“We can definitely feel the upturn in the economy and we want to align ourselves to it,” WTCMM vice president Pamela Pascual says. One of its priorities is to push forward with the centre’s master plan, which includes the construction of a hotel and an office building on the five-hectare property. Describing WTCMM as a “one-stop shop” that provides a full menu of services to its clients, Ms Pascual adds that the intended physical expansion runs parallel to their on-going efforts in forging new business relationships and rekindling old ties. “It’s a good time to come back to the Philippines,” she says. “Managing events and exhibitions is not just about renting out space — it’s about connecting with people. And if there’s anything we Filipinos are good at, it’s building relationships.”
Eat, play, work Sofitel Philippine Plaza is a five-star luxury hotel, with an idyllic seaside resort setting touted as its most valuable feature. The property is conveniently located close to all the major convention centres, exhibition halls, theatres, museums, offices, malls and theme parks. With the InspiredMeetings™ programme, organisers leveraging the Sofitel property will also be treated to a dedicated in-house team of experts ready to deliver even the most unconventional requests – from planning and coordination to execution and post-event activities. What makes the Sofitel experience more unique, says director of sales and marketing Chanelle Garvey, is that clients have an option to dine at the hotel’s celebrated flagship restaurant, Spiral — a US$11 million culinary marvel that boasts 21 dining ateliers spread with a magnificent array of Eastern, Western and Filipino gourmet cuisine, as well as a world-class wine cellar, a French boulangerie and a Chocolate Room. It’s a dining innovation in Asia that has become Manila’s favourite feast for the senses. “While there are still a lot of challenges to the industry, we are very happy that the government has doubled its efforts to boost tourism,” says Ms Garvey. “There’s a lot of optimism in the Philippines becoming more competitive as a MICE destination. Now it’s up to us to come up with products and services that will meet the demands of the market and make sure our clients are not disappointed.” micenet Asia
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Back
in the game
Previous limited air access and funding had been the main culprits of a soft MICE market in the Philippines, but recent efforts may promise clearer skies for the archipelago. STORY BY ANGELA BLARDONY URETA
Throughout the centuries, chroniclers and travellers have called the Philippine archipelago the “Pearl of the Orient Seas” as a result of its central location and unparalleled significance in the Pacific maritime trade routes. Its capital, Manila, has been an active international trading port as early as the 10th century and has since served as the country’s centre of arts, politics, education and finance. Today, Manila is listed as one of the world’s global cities and attracts over one million tourists annually, both for business and recreation. Manila emerged the forerunner of the MICE industry in Southeast Asia when the development of the Philippine convention industry became official government policy in 1976, highlighted by the unveiling of the region’s first full-fledged convention centre, the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), and the creation of the Philippine Convention Bureau (now known as the Tourism Promotions Board). While it has faced stiff competition from more aggressive Asian neighbours over the years, the Philippines is hoping to make great strides in the MICE industry once more — banking heavily on the country’s highly-touted investment grade economy, its current flow of record arrivals for tourism, and the creativity and expertise its industry personnel have honed over the years. “Manila — as well as the other larger cities in the Philippines — can meet most of the requirements that make successful 36
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international conventions or meetings,” Tourism Promotions Board’s MICE and Business Development Unit senior convention service officer Jerome Diaz says. “The major challenge, however, is air accessibility especially for people arriving from Europe where there are no direct flights (to Manila).” However, he points out that this concern will be gradually corrected by the “open skies policy”, a law liberalising air access in the Philippines which took effect in 2010. “We are optimistic that this would entice more airlines to come in, especially those from Europe and other major tourism and MICE markets.” Once in the country, travelling in and out of the capital ceases to be a problem. MICE-ready or popular incentive travel destinations in the Philippines are either equipped with international airports (in the case of Cebu, Davao or Palawan, for instance) or have airports that offer daily flights to and from Manila with a wide selection and availability of schedules. According to Mr Diaz, the Philippines is also one country with more relaxed regulations on customs requirements and local government taxes for MICE planners, organisers and delegates. MICE planners may request for endorsement from the Department of Finance and Bureau of Customs by coordinating with the Tourism Promotions Board for tax exemptions, customs waiver, and port courtesies for
promotional materials they need for event that are of no commercial value. Admittedly, the Philippines had been careful and selective in marketing itself in the global MICE industry, mostly due to its limited funds for promotions. And until recently, there were also no big infrastructure projects in the country’s meetings and conventions industry that made international impact. “In MICE, you cannot go out promoting yourself internationally then apologise for lack of something newer and bigger to offer,” Mr Diaz explains. Things started to change with the creation of Republic Act 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009, which pushed MICE as one of the priority areas for tourism development. This, plus the on-going boom in real property development in the meetings and hospitality industry (represented by key integrated tourist destination projects such as Resorts World
In MICE, you cannot go out promoting yourself internationally then apologise for the lack of something newer and bigger to offer.” JEROME DIAZ TOURISM PROMOTIONS BOARD MICE AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT SENIOR CONVENTION SERVICE OFFICER
Philippines
Manila, SM Mall of Asia Complex, ASEANA Business Park, etc.) gave the Philippines’ bid for reclaiming its favoured spot in the industry a shot in the arm. “As a result, we at the Tourism Promotions Board have also started to re-introduce the Philippines as a strong MICE player in the region to reflect these developments, as well as put on an aggressive marketing campaign to gain re-entry into the global MICE market.” Mr Diaz emphasises the importance of connecting with the proper government agencies to ensure a more satisfying MICE experience in the Philippines. For its part, the Tourism Promotions Board can provide comprehensive information, technical assistance and guidance to meeting planners and incentive travel organisers, especially those coming to Manila for the first time. “The TPB specialises in helping meeting planners and association executives [with] bid preparation, incentive programme planning, site inspection and liaison services [by] providing clients with a valuable network of contacts in both the government and private sectors, and attendance promotion through our own network and overseas offices. We have a MICE and Business Development Unit dedicated to these services that business tourism planners can get in touch with if they need assistance or if they want to know more about the Philippines as a MICE destination.”
FAST FACTS
Number of weekly direct flights to Manila from key destinations in the region: • • • •
Australia China Hong Kong Korea
25 24 140 153
• • • •
Malaysia Singapore Thailand Vietnam
9 116 28 6
Visa requirements to the Philippines: Tourist visas are issued under three main classifications: • Pleasure. Issued to tourists and other temporary visitors entering the Philippines. It cannot be used to engage in gainful employment or for business, or to take up educational courses in any learning institution within the Philippines. • Business. The purpose of the temporary stay is to search for areas of investment. It does not allow the bearer to engage in any activity that may be considered a form of gainful employment. • Health. This is granted to those whose intention is to convalesce from a serious injury or illness. The illness, however, should not be contagious or dangerous. Requirements for visa application as well as information on nationals who are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for a specified period of stay may be requested from the Philippine embassy or consulate from the visitor’s country of origin.
Key government contact for MICE: The Philippine Tourism Promotions Board, a corporate body attached to the Philippine Department of Tourism, is responsible for marketing and promoting the Philippines as a major convention destination in Asia, taking charge of attracting, promoting, facilitating, and servicing large-scale events, international fairs and conventions, congresses, sports competitions and expositions. MICE and Business Development Unit Tourism Promotions Board 4F Legaspi Towers 300 Roxas Blvd. cor. Vito Cruz St. Manila, Philippines 1000 Phone: +63 2 525-9318 to -9327 Fax: +63 2 525-1255 Website: www.tpb.gov.ph Largest venues: • Philippine International Convention Center • World Trade Center – Metro Manila • SMX Convention Center • Cebu International Convention Center (outside Metro Manila) Some major events in 2012: • 45th Annual Meeting of Asian Development Bank (ADB) Board of Governors • ASEAN Commission for the Promotion & Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC) • 2012 PATA Travel Mart • 10th General Assembly Meeting, Halal World Forum and World Halal Council • 37th Annual Conference, ASEAN Economic Associations (FAEA) Tourist arrivals in 2012: 4, 272, 811 total arrivals, with Korea, the USA and Japan leading the top markets
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trending
Meeting of the minds While larger venues are better suited for big groups, smaller spaces provide the intimate and personalised touch welcomed in high-profile closed-door meetings. Story by Kristie Thong
The notion that big is better may be true when catering to the needs of large-sized conferences or exhibitions, but the C-suite will believe otherwise. The selection of meeting settings is often determined by the purpose of an event, according to Adobe group marketing manager for Southeast Asia Janie Lim. “Small meetings are typically hosted for the purpose of holding closed-door discussions with key clients and partners, in turn, encouraging interaction and strengthening relationships.” Smaller meeting spaces, akin to boardrooms or unconventional spaces that take up to 30-40 pax, are designed for the purpose of offering a more intimate setting conducive enough for business discussions. Kelvin Yong, a 15-year events management professional in Singapore and Asia Pacific, said larger spaces may compromise some touch points as they tend to have more groups, or larger groups to manage.
Bar area, Tippling Club.
Conrad Centennial Singapore.
On the flip side, smaller spaces tend to eliminate “dead space” and tend to be more cost-effective, while providing a more responsive and personalised level of service.
The choice Ms Lim stated that some key factors taken into account when choosing a small meeting space is its location, venue reputation, service reliability, availability and budget. “We are inclined to select wellmaintained venues that are appealing to our target audience. Ideally, the venue should be in an exclusive yet accessible location – a place which is easy for our guests to locate.” When asked for some small meeting spaces that resonated with her, Ms Lim cited Conrad Centennial Singapore and Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok. “[Conrad Centennial Singapore] is centrally located, which is accessible for our guests. The rooms are tastefully decorated with enough privacy to facilitate on-going discussions. On top of that, service standards are excellent,” she said.
Interior, Tippling Club Restaurant-Bar.
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Grand Salon (meeting room), Conrad Centennial Singapore.
Ms Lim also admired the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok’s versatile range of function rooms and unique and creativelythemed areas, which she said is one of Adobe’s “favourite places to host small group meetings in Thailand as the creative vibe the venue exudes is in line” with what the brand stands for. With event organisers veering towards the unconventional, groups hosting meetings off-site have also seen an increase. Mr Yong added that the advantage of using an off-site venue is the potential to design a different experience, the ability to think outside the box, and a greater flexibility with space usage. When asked, he cited Commune by the Great Wall, Beijing and Tippling Club, Singapore as unconventional intimate small spaces ideal for intimate meetings. “[Commune by the Great Wall combines] 12 award-winning spaces and allow very intimate and different environments for any type of audience or theme with very spectacular views,” he said. He has also hosted an event at Tippling Club, a restaurant, which he believed presented a clear unconventional concept from the start. “Leveraging on the culinary concept of the Tippling Club of deconstruction, the approach of the meeting was to ‘break’ the topics of discussion down and address the simple issues that mattered most. The theme was further carried through the food and beverages specially designed for the day,” Mr Yong said.
We are Y
DANAT THANOOSILP ANGSANA LAGUNA PHUKET MANAGER - SALES AND LEISURE
Every challenge counts A promising Gen Y in the Thai hospitality industry says the passion for working and learning is key to his career growth. COMPILED BY SIRIMA EAMTAKO
Danat Thanoosilp wanted to be a writer when he was a university student. He now writes for a living, albeit not the conventional method. As sales and leisure manager of Angsana Laguna Phuket, his role involves not only interacting with wholesale agents and DMCs, but also crafting sales proposals and contracts on a regular basis. He has grown to love the industry, where the magic lies in the ability to satisfy the customer’s needs. A prominent Thai DMC executive says you’re a rising star in MICE, citing your ability to organise some large events professionally. What’s your work ethic? I take every challenge as an opportunity to learn and improve my skills. The hospitality industry is about satisfying the needs of our customers. The size of an incentive group does not matter, nor whether the guest is staying in a standard-sized room or a suite. They share the same expectations of wanting a good experience. My goal is to meet that expectation. How did you start out in this industry? I started out as a ground staff at Thai Airways International, and later switched to hotels. I also worked for Twinpalms Phuket Resort and Peninsula Bangkok prior to this property. I was fortunate that I was noticed in all my workplaces, and also received opportunities from the industry’s senior executives that allowed me to progress in my career.
What’s the biggest challenge in your line of work? Having to balance between MICE and wholesale sales because there is a difference between the two market segments. I must stay alert to ensure I do not lose one business as a result of securing another. How do you handle complaints? So far, I have received comments about business pitches, such as requests to alter components in proposals. These are great opportunities to improve my skills. To ensure smooth-sailing operations and to prevent complaints, I make sure that business contracts always meet the clients’ requirements when it comes to pricing and key components. I would also remain on the property to take care of clients’ needs. For example, I will be on-site to handle the upcoming 1500-delegate Herbalife incentive, where approximately 300 guests will be staying with us.
We also need to be humble and learn from the older generations, because they can help guide us to apply our fresh ideas in our work.” around for a longer time. We also need to be humble and learn from the older generations, because they can help guide us to apply our fresh ideas in our work. How do you feel about taking training courses? Training helps to enhance our observation skills. Most organisations provide internal training. Another way to learn the business is to attend industry networking events, which allow us to broaden our perspectives and networks. I often find time to attend such events to get new ideas and contacts.
Gen Ys have fresh ideas. But we will need passion to marry our fresh ideas to traditions in this industry, which have been around for a longer time.” As a Gen Y, what do you think is your most important quality to progress in this industry? Gen Ys have fresh ideas. But we will need passion to marry our fresh ideas to traditions in this industry, which have been micenet Asia
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MacaU
World of its own
Sheraton Macao Hotel, the Cotai Strip’s latest property, is a star performer in the world of glamour and tailor-made events. Unrivalled in its glory is Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central, the largest hotel in Macau and in the global Starwood portfolio. Nestled in the new integrated resort Sands Cotai Central, the property offers 3896 guestrooms in the centre of the glamourous Cotai Strip. Sheraton Macao Hotel is located 10 minutes from the Macau International Airport and Ferry Terminal, and situated in the midst of Macau’s finest dining, shopping and entertainment – with event organisers and delegates having instant access to over 600 duty-free designer stores under one roof. Event organisers have access to a total of 19,000 square metres of flexible events space, divisible into a total of 166 meeting rooms and accommodating from over 5000 guests theatre-style to intimate boardroom meetings of 12. This includes the pillar-less Kashgar Grand Ballroom of 4891 square metres, divisible into up to 16 meeting rooms; six junior ballrooms offering further diversity; three junior ballrooms within the Sands Cotai Central complex; and nine hospitality suites suitable for smaller personalised meetings. Organisers requiring tailor-made events that exude individuality should look no further, as inspiring experiences can be 40
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produced flawlessly with the support of Sheraton Macao Hotel’s professional and innovative events team and state-of-the-art AV technology.
Themed experts at work Themed events are a specialty of Sheraton Macao Hotel. In a three-day meeting programme, a welcome cocktail event for up to 1000 guests can be created with an exclusive “Silver Light” theme, with stilt walkers, saxophonists and other entertainers jazzing up the atmosphere by the poolside. The same concept can be implemented within the hotel ballroom for an even bigger audience. Only last month, the hotel hosted a specially-themed ‘Crime Dinner’ in cooperation with the organisers of CSI: The Experience exhibition based around the hit TV series. A special “The Heritage Soul of Macau” dinner can be organised off-site,
MEET FOR FREE offer Enjoy up to 2 full day meeting packages absolutely free when you book a minimum stay of 50 rooms for 2 consecutive nights.
showcasing the hotel’s ability to create bespoke occasions out of the ballroom. Held within the heritage building, Albergue, the culinary and banqueting team previously set up a kitchen and dining space for 50, serving a four-course sit-down dinner of cultural delights amid Portuguese entertainment. Sheraton Macao Hotel has worked with local partners to showcase a series of “Discover Macau” off-site team-building events and unique experiences to a group of over 40 PCOs from Asia Pacific during a familiarisation trip. Meetings at Sheraton Macao Hotel can also incorporate comfort through Shine Spa Journey, by setting up a meeting room with eight massage treatment beds for coffee breaks. Another option is the Banquet Kitchen, where a kitchen is set up in banquet style and attendees have their lunch in the form of a buffet. Meeting matrix MICE planners can also get on the Sheraton Macao Hotel website (http://sheratonmacao.com/meetingmatrix/ ) and design your own tailor-made meeting/event. Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central, Cotai Strip, Taipa, Macau SAR. Direct line: (853) 2880 2000 Fax: (853) 2880 2111 Group enquiries hotline: (853) 8113 0700 Group enquiries fax: (853) 8113 0788 Group enquiries email: sales.macao@sheraton.com
Case study
Quick hands in
Taipei
2013 Amway (China) Leadership Seminar Organiser Apple Tour Name oF
Venue
W Taipei
Type
Incentive travel
Client
Amway (China)
When
March 12 – April 2, 2013
Pax
Approximately 2000
Budget
Undisclosed
Pool, W Taipei.
Event Overview Amway China chose to host its annual incentive trip in Taiwan for the first time this year, following previous trips to Sydney and Bali. Amway utilised a total of four Starwood hotels in Taipei, including W Taipei, Le Meridien Taipei, Westin Taipei, and Sheraton Grand Taipei. Amway organised a variety of activities within the period; in W Taipei, there was a welcome reception and dinner on the first night and a gala dinner on the second. The latter saw celebrities brought in for entertainment. During the day, the groups had the opportunity to visit other areas such as Kaohsiung for leisure activities. Taiwan was chosen as the incentive travel destination due to the opening of relations between the two countries, where there were previously limited opportunities to enter Taiwan.
Execution W Taipei saw close to 2000 Amway guests during the period, which came in five waves of 330-385 guests each. The hotel
was tasked with the logistical handling of all luggage and to ensure guests were on schedule. W Taipei worked closely with the event organiser, Taiwan-based Apple Tour, to manage logistical preparations, menu selection and dietary requirement, and the lead-up to guests’ arrival to ensure the experience was efficient and special. The W Taipei team allocated its Mega room as the dedicated breakfast venue for the Amway delegation, where meals started at 5:30 in the morning. There was a separate room available for Amway executives to handle gifts, while a dedicated check-in and check-out counter for Amway was made available on the events wing of the hotel.
Challenges and Triumphs One of the main challenges W Taipei faced during the Amway event was to ensure rooms were ready within a four to
Mega Room, breakfast venue for Amway delegation.
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five-hour turnaround, according to Ashley Hansen, executive assistant manager of sales and marketing. “We had to turn 200 rooms over a short period of time and that needed to be managed.” The handling of luggage was particularly challenging as they arrived separately from the guests, but had to be properly labelled and placed in the respective rooms before the guests arrived. Prior to transfers, they also had to be approved by Amway.
Event Outcome Amway China was looking for a good experience. One of the things W Taipei was able to provide was a celebrity experience due to a movie the hotel was a part of back in 2011. Produced by director Doze Nui Chenzer and starring screen bigwigs such as Shu Qi, Vicky Zhao, Ethan Ruan, Eddie Peng, Mark Chao, Amber Kao, and Ivy Chen, the movie set in both Taipei and Beijing was a story about the various victories and sacrifices in the ultimate search for love. With several scenes in the movie shot in the hotel, W Taipei’s reputation soared further. When Amway was at W, there was a property-wide competition where the delegation was encouraged to take photos of themselves against the backdrop of various locations where certain scenes of the movie were filmed. The hotel received good feedback from the organisers, as well as good appraisals from the Amway delegation that put up with the hotel during the period.
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Show Report
Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong booth.
IT&CM China 2013 draws local interest More Chinese buyers, and those from association and corporate travel categories spotted at the three-day tradeshow.
Jazz entertainers at the opening ceremony.
Story by Kristie Thong
The Incentive Travel & Conventions, Meetings (IT&CM) China 2013 saw some 3000 MICE professionals converge at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center from April 17 to 19. In the official show press conference held at Gran Melia Shanghai, co-organisers TTG Asia Media managing director Darren Ng; China International Travel Service (CITS) Limited, Head Office vice-president Chen Yueliang; and MP International (Shanghai) general manager Fiona Ho
highlighted that the show saw the largest percentage of Chinese buyers to date, standing at 65 per cent out of 362 professionals from DMCs, PCOs, corporate travel and associations. Despite rumours of corporate groups cancelling trips to China due to the recent bird flu strain, or concerns over tensions in the region causing a dent in the show, the attendance appeared healthy, with Mr Ng believing the impact hadn’t been significant on the MICE industry.
Press conference at the Gran Melia Shanghai.
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Opening ceremony hosted by Kerry Hotel Pudong.
The spotlight was on association and corporate travel this year, with exhibitors expressing prior to the show their interest in meeting with more buyers from those categories. The educational components of IT&CM were catered to this very request. Working with industry partner MCI Group, one day focused entirely on association meetings. Federation China Trade Association & Chambers of Commerce CEO Liu Youqian delivered a keynote address to executives involved in the business on how Chinese associations currently faced an impending bottleneck growth and how governmental reforms may impact their future development.
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Show Report
Business appointments on the exhibition floor.
Association Day forum.
These delegates also participated in three other association forums specially tailored for them, with speakers including MCI Group’s Nikki Walker, American Society of Association Executives Maria Tong, Australasian Society of Association Executives Simon Pryor and Tenpin Bowling Association of Queensland Ryan Xia. The next day was dedicated to corporate travel, with a talk by MasterCard Worldwide on achieving maximum savings with innovative e-payments and American Express Meetings & Events providing insights into the risk factors and how meeting planners can mitigate them, from its 2013 Meetings Risk Mitigation Report.
On the exhibition floor spanning 7100 square metres, attendees saw new destinations such as Brussels, Dalian, Guilin, Philippines and Xiamen, while corporate brands Accor, Fujita Kanko Hotels & Resorts, JTB Group, Merci France, Memento Asia, New Century Hotels & Resorts, Nippon Travel Agency, Okura Hotels & Resorts and more saw their own booths. Social functions being one of the highlights of IT&CM China 2013, the show was officially opened by a welcome ceremony and dinner at the Kerry Hotel Pudong of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. One of the official hotels* for the show, Kerry hosted delegates in a space touted as Shanghai’s largest pillar-less ballroom, treating guests to a classic Chinese literature performance “Peony Pavilion” performed by Kunqu Opera.
Dinner hosted by Seoul Tourism Organization at the Gran Melia Shanghai.
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Exhibition floor.
Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong, Seoul Tourism Organization, Genting Hong Kong and Business Events Australia were the other sponsors behind the show’s hosted luncheons, dinners and cocktail receptions. IT&CM China 2013 also allowed delegates to schedule 100 per cent of their business appointments prior to the event via the Pre-Scheduled Appointments (PSA) and Online Diary functions. This was unprecedented as only up to 60 per cent of appointments were scheduled for previous years during PSA. According to Mr Ng, the adoption rate of the Online Diary was encouraging as more than 90 per cent of exhibitors took advantage of the facility, while “over 40 per cent of exhibitors have achieved 80 per cent completed schedules 10 days before the event”. IT&CM China 2014 is expected to take place in the same venue from 15-17 April next year. *The official hotels for IT&CM China 2013 were Four Points by Sheraton Shanghai Pudong, Gran Melia Shanghai, Kerry Hotel Pudong Shanghai, Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel, and Shanghai Marriott Luwan.
Incorporating Luxury Travel
20 - 22 August 2013
In Collaboration with
Kempinski Ambience Hotel Delhi, India
Promoting India to the World and the World to India show with a great buyers profile. “Excellent It gave us the opportunity to network and promote our brand. ” Ashish Seriga, Creative Travel, India The event gave us the opportunity to expose “and publicise our hotel to potential buyers.” Eric Ng, Royal Plaza Hotel, Hong Kong The event has been helpful. I obtained fresh “ contacts and ideas for Incentive destinations.” Reyna Arthur, Sun Life GREPA Financial, Philippines
The Inaugural IT&CM India 2012 Proves Successful In Business Generation • 82% of Exhibitors expect orders 6 to 12 months after the event • Up to USD 750,000 sales value received per exhibiting company • 2.42 Buyers to 1 Exhibiting Company
and gathering more “Good event for networking product knowledge of India.” Arvind Nayar, Harvey World Vintage Travel Tours, Zimbabwe
Exhibitors | Buyers | Media Last Chance To www.itcmindia.com Register! Scan This QR Code
For More Information On Participating As An Exhibitor, Buyer or Media Delegate!
Industry Partner
Supporting Associations
Official Media
Hospitality & Venue Partner
Media Affiliates
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profile Compiled by Sirima Eamtako
From rock bottom to success
I asked my staff to endure a pay cut to avoid layoffs during the Thai political crisis in 2010. I gave them a threemonth bonus last year as business rebounded.” PORNTHIP (ADDIE) HIRUNKATE DESTINATION ASIA (THAILAND) MANAGING DIRECTOR
One of the most respected Thai tourism industry leaders, Pornthip (Addie) Hirunkate has led a true “rock bottom to success” story. Holding a business diploma from a local polytechnic college, she began her career 38 years ago as a tour guide at Tour East Thailand and left a general manager. She co-founded Destination Asia (Thailand) 16 years ago and has transformed it into one of the country’s top five destination management companies. What inspired you to start out as a tour guide? I had just graduated. I needed a job. More foreign tourists have visited Thailand. There was a need for tour guides. I earned my English skills from a Holy Redeemer
Start from rock bottom. Learn from the experiences. Be humble. Believe in team work.” 48
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school. There was no need for a licence to become a tour guide. I got a tour guide job at Tour East Thailand, received three months of on-the-job training and worked in that position for 12 years. How did you progress from a tour guide to an office position (operations)? I wanted a career development and my boss also recognised my potential. After some years in operations, I moved to sales and marketing and landed my last position as general manager.
What inspired you to start your own business? There were changes at Tour East. I co-founded Destination Asia (Thailand) because I wanted to continue doing what I love and to be able to offer employment to all my team members. Starting with a team of 17, Destination Asia (Thailand) has 128 staff now. What’s your biggest career achievement? My staff says they have everything in life today because of DA. I have happy staff and that’s why the company has grown and made profit. I don’t desert my staff during up or down times. I asked my staff to endure a pay cut to avoid layoffs during the Thai political crisis in 2010. I gave them a three-month bonus last year as business rebounded. I was once an employee. I know the needs of an employee. I am now an employer. I see to those needs such as provident fund, health insurance, group insurance and company’s shares. What is your advice to new faces in the tourism industry? Start from rock bottom. Learn from the experiences. Be humble. Believe in team work. Remember that tourists can go anywhere, but there is a reason why they choose a particular destination. We must try to make tourists happy and impressed, so that they will always come back.
profile Compiled by Kristie Thong
Behind the rosy exterior The hospitality industry is often perceived as glamorous and exciting, with constant jet setting and plenty of gourmet dining. In fact, behind all the glitz and glamour, a lot of hard work and long hours go into planning and service delivery.” SERENE LAW MARINA MANDARIN SINGAPORE DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING
A hospitality industry veteran of nearly 30 years, Serene Law is currently the director of sales and marketing at Marina Mandarin Singapore, winner of the Singapore Luxury Business Hotel 2012 awarded by World Luxury Hotel.
Ms Law’s key responsibilities include strategising sales and marketing plans, creating promotional sales programmes and formulating collaboration initiatives. With her vast experience in hospitality and tourism industries, she has the opportunities to lead corporate sales, catering sales, MICE and leisure sales teams. What do you love about your role that gets you up in the morning? My sales team: nurturing and mentoring them and watching them develop into sales professionals and growing into better, well-rounded individuals.
What are some tough decisions that you need to make on a regular basis, and how do you tackle them? As a sales professional, I am always in the process of making deals. One of the toughest decisions I face would be to selectively maximise revenue by choosing the right business, at the right price, and at the right time for the hotel. To make such decisions, I keep myself updated with the market conditions and trends, and leverage the use of technology. It is equally important to work closely with the revenue panel to get consensus on difficult decisions.
What are some misconceptions about the hospitality industry that you’ve come across? The hospitality industry is often perceived as glamorous and exciting, with constant jet setting and plenty of gourmet dining. In fact, behind all the glitz and glamour, a lot of hard work and long hours go into planning and service delivery. If you could change just one thing in the industry and its talent, what would it be? The hospitality and tourism field is an extremely vast one, and I have always felt that hoteliers should have an opportunity to expand their experience in other aspects of the industry. I’ve had the opportunity to work for one of the major tourist attractions in Singapore and found that the experience has greatly enhanced my ability to see the dynamics of the tourism business and understand it on a deeper level. Apart from work, what do you do to continue growing as a person and leader? As a leader, I make it a point to have a short, non-work related conversation with my team members every day. As a person, I regularly take stock of my life and appreciate what I have and how far I have come. I also do my best to give back to society in my own way. Most recently, I volunteered my time to share my work experience with aspiring young entrepreneurs in Siem Reap, Cambodia. micenet Asia
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People
GAYNOR REID DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS ACCOR ASIA PACIFIC
MICHAEL HANRATTY GENERAL MANAGER G HOTEL PENANG
BO KYUNG BYUN CEO COEX CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTER
KLAUS SENNIK GENERAL MANAGER RAMADA PLAZA MENAM RIVERSIDE BANGKOK
SINGAPORE After holding the
MALAYSIA G Hotel Penang has
KOREA Bo Kyung Byun has been
THAILAND Ramada Plaza Menam
position of media relations manager
appointed Michael Hanratty as
appointed as the new president
Riverside Bangkok has appointed
for Accor Asia Pacific in Australia
general manager. An Australian,
and CEO of Coex Convention &
Klaus Sennik as its new general
for 13 years, Gaynor Reid has
Mr Hanratty has been in the
Exhibition Center in Seoul. His
manager, having held the role of
moved to the group’s regional HQ
industry with more than 20 years
appointment was finalised after a
hotel manager for two years.
in Singapore to take on the role of
of experience in international hotel
process to ensure the transparent
director of communications.
operations.
recruitment of all Coex staff.
She will be responsible for
His experience includes Hong
Mr Byun has extensive
A German national with more than 40 years of hospitality experience, Mr Sennik has worked
managing Accor’s communications
Kong, Thailand, Dubai, Brunei,
experience heading several of
extensively in many parts of the
efforts across the 16 countries in
Indonesia and Australia at properties
Korea’s top information and
world and with many international
which the group operates in the
such as The Fairmont Dubai,
technology corporations and
hotel chains. In his new role, Mr
Asia Pacific.
InterContinental Bangkok and
contributed substantially to
Sennik will manage day-to-day
Conrad International & Treasury
Korea’s global convention and
operations of the hotel as well
worked at the Sydney Organising
Casino Brisbane. Mr Hanratty has
exhibition industry and international
as work closely with the hotel’s
Committee for the Olympic Games
also managed various properties
relations through his role as
owners to oversee the gradual
in the communications team and
throughout the world, with the past
CEO and president of the Seoul
refurbishment and upgrading of
was a journalist before that.
16 years in Southeast Asia.
Business Agency.
the hotel.
SARASWATI SUBADIA DIRECTOR OF MICE SALES THE WESTIN RESORT NUSA DUA, BALI & BALI INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE
SHERRYN BATES DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING KERRY HOTEL PUDONG, SHANGHAI
ELFA CLEOFE DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING THE RITZ-CARLTON BANGALORE
INDONESIA Saraswati Subadia
CHINA Sherryn Bates has been
INDIA The Ritz-Carlton Hotel
has been appointed director of
appointed director of sales and
Company L.L.C. has announced
MICE sales at The Westin Resort
marketing at Kerry Hotel Pudong,
the appointment of Elfa Cleofe as
Nusa Dua, Bali & Bali International
Shanghai. She first joined Shangri-
director of sales and marketing for
Convention Centre (BICC). She will
La Surabaya, Indonesia as director
The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore, India.
be responsible for promoting and
of sales and marketing in 1997.
She will be heading the sales,
Prior to Accor, Ms Reid
selling BICC by maintaining existing
Ms Bates served in her first
catering, revenue, public relations
networks as well as planning
managerial position at a catering
strategies to penetrate potential
equipment and franchise company,
new markets.
then entering the hospitality industry
worked in the hospitality industry
in 1993 in Vietnam. This mapped
for over 20 years. Prior to joining
Ms Subadia graduated top of
her journey within the industry where
The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, she
her Tourism Management class
her experience spanned across five-
helped open The St. Regis Lhasa
at the renowned Tourism Institue
star luxury hotel brands. Originally
Resort. Some of her experiences
(STP). She brings 12 years of
from Perth, Australia, Ms Bates is
in international luxury hotel brands
experience working exclusively in
interested in antiques, art, travel and
include the Four Season Hotels in
the MICE sector.
new cultures.
Tokyo and the Ritz-Carlton Hotels
Born and raised in Bali,
and marketing divisions of the hotel. An avid traveller, Ms Cleofe has
in New York.
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BOONTAWEE JANTASUWAN MANAGING DIRECTOR EVENTS TRAVEL ASIA THAILAND Boontawee (Max) Jantasuwan has opened his own DMC, the Bangkok-based Events Travel Asia, on April 2. Max began his career in the tourism industry at Sheraton Grande Laguna in Phuket, where he worked for five years and was the first to be awarded with the Starwood Goal Achievement. He moved on to Diethelm Events as events manager for three years before relocating to Singapore for a year to manage the incentive programme for The MINT Organization, then rejoining Diethelm Events as assistant director of events for three years. He was most recently with Bangkok-based Asia World Enterprise, where he spearheaded its MICE division for three years.
Career strategies
ANDREW CHAN ACI HR SOLUTIONS CEO
As more and more Gen Y talent enter the MICE industry each year, what are some key work-related characteristics of this cohort? Unlike Baby Boomers and Gen X, Gen Ys “work to live” and not “live to work”, and are far more interested in having jobs that accommodate time for their families and personal lives. They also want to be constantly learning, no matter what it is that they’re doing, which means providing adequate training is critical in retaining Gen Y talent. Remember, Gen Ys get bored easily, and research shows they will not hesitate to leave an employer once they feel they’ve reached 90 per cent learning capacity. What are some things Gen Ys value that set them apart from the wider industry? Gen Ys are generally more attracted to socially-responsible companies – in a recent study, 88 per cent of Gen Ys said they would choose employers with corporate social responsibility (CSR) values that reflect their own, and 86 per cent would consider leaving an employer if CSR values no longer matched their expectations. Having grown up alongside technology, it goes without saying that modern technology cannot be compromised for
Y-ired differently Changing our way of communicating is a muchneeded step towards understanding the free-spirited and vocal Millennial Generation (born 1982-2002) and to help them grow.
Gen Ys – consider incorporating videos and photos in your communication methods with Gen Y employees as a way to engage them. As a Gen X manager, how can I work with my Gen Y employees to make them feel valued and find career satisfaction? Firstly, it’s important to understand that Gen Ys want mentors, not managers, and they’re much less likely to respond to the traditional command-and-control type of management which is still popular in much of today’s workforce. Effective communication is absolutely critical to Gen Ys. Try to communicate frequently but briefly, and avoid long weekly meetings when possible. Also, be patient and take the time to explain your purpose – be able to explain the “whys”, which you’ll regularly hear from Gen Ys. Give them constant feedback and instant recognition – waiting for the traditional annual review is too long, and chances are you would have lost the employee by then. As a Gen Y employee, what are some ways that will allow me to work more cohesively with my Gen X colleagues? Communication really is the key.
Start by understanding the different communication styles, and this could mean the technology medium Gen X or even Baby Boomers prefer. Gen Ys tend to prefer communicating through instant messaging channels such as text messages, WhatsApp and emails, whilst Gen X colleagues may prefer the phone or face-to-face interaction. Compromise and bridge the communication gaps for more cohesive working relationships. What are some initiatives companies can take to attract and engage Gen Y talent? With the existing talent crunch, the marketing efforts of organisations should not only focus on customers, but also on potential employees. Improve the quality of career pages on your web and social media sites, and if you don’t have a career section, implement one! Gen Y form first impressions of companies through these web channels. Fun and work need not be mutually exclusive; providing a fun and employeecentered work environment will not only attract and engage your Gen Ys; they will also be likely to thrive and excel in such environments. micenet Asia
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Kelvin Yong Venues have invested significantly on developing ancillary services like hassle-free Internet connections and intelligent technical capabilities to differentiate themselves. However, hardware alone is not the tool to remain at the forefront of a MICE industry that has evolved into a more competitive battlefield. These improvements help enhance a business, but they do not make the business, much less retain business. Clients do not need a super-fast Internet connection (neither a slow one). They need a professional who understands their objectives, and are able to deliver them effectively and in a timely manner, all the time. This cannot be programmed to perform, only programmed to react to requests and changes, real-time and accordingly. “Software” is critical in driving results and increasing returns. Effective processes and skills are key catalysts that promote longevity in business relationships. The people you hire are directly responsible for your business. They must not only be familiar with the processes, but also have the right skills to better respond to client needs, and be flexible in managing relationships. Business success today is not determined by competitive pricing or cutting-edge technology. Amongst the important factors, the positive attributes that cement the decision are professionals who are knowledgeable and skilled to exercise flexibility to craft a quality response to a client’s predicament with a solution that appears to be “exclusive and an exception”. A thorough understanding of the client’s background, event, objectives and its competition are equally instrumental. The homework will go a long way in helping you secure the business. The face negotiating the deal could also decide the inking of the agreement. Clients value relationships more than they do with some cost saving or state-of-the-art lighting system. To enhance this, a set of processes must also be already in place. An Occupational Health & Safety procedure must be included, as a sound and tested fire and safety evacuation protocol is of paramount significance. Safety and preparedness has become an industry standard. “How would you evacuate my important guests in the event of a bomb threat or fire outbreak?” – is the question discerning clients would have in their minds, amongst many other operational or administrative issues, and the winning operator offers the exact solution that could set minds at ease. Be proactive in including such processes in your proposal, and clients would appreciate that their partner is reliable, trustworthy and as concerned as they are with issues that matter. Processes must be effective and streamlined to promote ease of communication and collaboration. Venue operators must offer an efficient “one-stop shop” – one point of contact to have all the event details sorted from start till the end when it is delivered. Dealing with multiple staff could jeopardise the business – loss in communicating the right messages during handovers; a working relationship that has not been built over time to harness the influencing power of a trusted partner. These are symptoms of a slowly dying working condition. Implementing these processes is simple. Upgrading your staff is progressive and valuable. However, to be better poised to attract, retain and repeat business, venues would need to experiment with the right formula of hardware and “software”.
How would you evacuate my important guests in the event of a bomb threat or fire outbreak?’ – is the question discerning clients would have in their minds, amongst many other operational or administrative issues, and the winning operator offers the exact solution that could set minds at ease.” Kelvin Yong
Kelvin Yong brings with him 15 years of creative and events management experience in Singapore and Asia Pacific. He has managed a varied portfolio of events, ranging from conferences, product and services showcases, as well as special events for property openings and brand launches. He has also produced and delivered several world premieres and world-class show productions.
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Antony Ettler has been an operations manager for a large group in Sydney for the last ten years or so. This entailed overseeing nine venues, with capacities ranging from 10 to 2000 people. Other responsibilities include employing, training managers and supervisors, rostering for all floor staff and, of course, liaising with VIP clients.
how to
Be a good event operations manager The operations role has always been looked upon as multi-faceted, with professionals requiring sufficient technical and knowledge know-how. More importantly, what do event organisers need from their venues and the operations managers they work with? When micenet ASIA asked an experienced event organiser what he felt are the attributes a venue operations manager should possess, and also asked a venue provider the same question, both parties believed soft skills trumped technical expertise and are essential in retaining business. Compiled by Kristie Thong
Antony Ettler Having spent many years interviewing potential operations managers, I’ve learnt that what makes a successful one is not easily answered. This is because there are so many facets that go into running a successful event. The operations manager plays a pivotal role not only with all internal departments, but also with an unlimited number of outside contacts, suppliers and companies, only limited by time, space and imagination. Knowledge and technical skill would be a good start in defining those qualities that make a good operations manager, as they can certainly come in handy when defining the parameters of a particular event, as well as help to cut out those events doomed to fail before they start. However, these are by no means all that it takes. As with many things in life it’s all about the X factor. What matters are those personality traits known as soft skills: being able to communicate with many people from vastly-different socio-cultural backgrounds, being able to endear those people to you, and then being able to encourage and coerce people around you to go beyond the realms of their usual job descriptions. The bottom-line is, unless you can use common sense to prioritise in highly-stressful environments, forget it. For example, you’re just about to run mains for a huge event and your contact informs you that you have to hold off for 10 minutes while the CEO makes a quick speech. Up until this point the event has run to plan. You have organised, trained and briefed your staff who have smiled and gone about the business of serving F&B with great expertise and professionalism. You are comfortable that the kitchen will produce great food that will meet and exceed client expectation. Everyone knows that you’re in charge and any changes to the plan must be run by you. So far there have been no great problems to solve but until you have faced real problems under pressure, your true value as operations manager cannot be known. As your mind reels with the CEO issue, three more problems are brought to your attention: a late arrival wants a salmon entrée while the chef insists there’s none left; the beer machine has broken down (most guests are drinking beer), and there’s an RSA issue on the balcony. Having been awake for 16 hours due to early bump-in, the fact is that all your hard work could be in vain if you serve dry fish. So what do you do? Deeming the main course as the most important problem, you delegate the other minor problems to your supervisors and then you use your special gift of communication to convince the contact that the mains have to run on time and that the CEO can do the speech during the main course. Saying ‘no’ to a contact is generally taught as being wrong in hospitality, but when common sense dictates, and you have the communication skills, then it must be done. Without soft skills—common sense, the ability to delegate, prioritise and function while sleep-deprived and good communication skills—you will not be a consistently-successful operations manager.
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Opinion
DANIELLE PUCETA AMERICAN EXPRESS MEETINGS & EVENTS DIRECTOR, JAPA
Reducing risk in meeting and events Companies without proper processes in place to manage and control event expenditure may be in jeopardy.
Most companies these days control the purchase of employee laptops and phones, and restrict spend within travel policies. There are, however, a surprising number of organisations allowing employees to spend significant amounts on M&E, often without establishing guidelines to manage risk and resources. Our recent commissioned twodimensional study looked into meetings and events (M&E) risk exposure and mitigation, comprising approximately half of respondents being meeting planners and the other half leaders (of meetings, procurement, finance, marketing, sales or meeting budget holders). It revealed that 51 per cent of planners and 43 per cent of leaders do not believe risk is properly mitigated in their organisations. 68 per cent of leaders said that transparency of all data is a top priority; however 85 per cent of planners still simply use Excel for their budget tracking. Respondents also cited “legal/ regulatory” and “financial” categories as the most important risk mitigation areas for meetings management.
Legal/regulatory risk 37 per cent of planners currently do not forward ancillary (e.g. ground, AV, entertainment, etc.) contracts for further 54
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review. Furthermore, 23 per cent of meeting planners sign their own contracts but only 6 per cent of leaders state that planners are allowed to sign contracts. The danger of an organisation not managing legal and regulatory risk can result in heavy fines, loss of reputation or even legal action. However, an organisation can realise significant benefits by taking reasonably simple steps such as formalising financial controls and document management. For example, developing standard addendums and review processes for ancillary contracts, and developing a contract signing authorisation matrix outlining the appropriate levels of staff who are allowed to sign contracts, can help ensure an organisation is protected in a regulatory sense.
Financial risk 52 per cent of planners said they do not receive a budget when meeting planning begins, but 82 per cent of leaders said providing a budget is either an organisational guideline or requirement. Organisations are unnecessarily wasting financial resources by not using available credits, where 36 per cent of planners said they are unlikely or neutral on using available credits and half of the leaders said that their policies do not require the use of available credits. Visibility is also an issue
highlighted: 27 per cent of leaders are unable to track meeting expenses and 32 per cent of leaders are unable to report all meeting expenses. Organisations not efficiently managing financial processes and reporting can face unnecessary spending or miss the opportunity for savings. By implementing policies and processes such as the following, an organisation can minimise financial risk around M&E: • Provide technology to enable meeting requesters to create estimated budgets. • Develop a process to identify available credits at the onset of sourcing each meeting and share these throughout the organisation. Track available credits, and update policies to include processes to use credits. • Input all forecasted budgets and actual expenses in an M&E technology tool, then mandate the use of a corporate purchasing card for all meeting expenses. Develop standard General Ledger codes to track these meeting expenses. In order to avoid the pitfalls of risk exposure, it is important that M&E activity takes place within a formal, enterprise-wide meetings management programme, which enables proper visibility and control of spending and activities.
Venue Update Compiled by Sirima Eamtako and Kristie Thong
Red carpet service
THAILAND Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok has completed an 800 million baht (approximately US$21 million) renovation programme involving all 565 of its rooms. It includes five Club floors with dedicated butler service and a Club Lounge,
seven restaurants and bars. A new wellness centre has also opened on the lower lobby level, featuring a fitness studio, swimming pool and pool bar, and Spa Cenvaree. It features 10,000 square metres of newly-renovated events space, including 25 breakout rooms and the Vibhavadee Ballroom, which can seat 1800 people and serve 2000 reception-style. Events of up to 3800 people can make use of the BBC Hall, located in the connecting Central Plaza Shopping Mall, which has more than 300 shops, boutiques, restaurants and a multiplex cinema.
Villa living INDONESIA Nikko Bali Resort and Spa has introduced a range of luxury bedroom villas ahead of its official launch scheduled in July. 19 one-, two- and three-bedroom villas represent a resort within a resort, offering guests their own private facilities as well as full access to all facilities and amenities within the existing resort, including the renowned Nikko Club Lounge and Mandara Spa. Each villa spans more than 200 square metres, and is equipped with a private pantry, dining area, lounge area, a small swimming pool in an open villa concept and a bespoke butler service. Guests can also enjoy views of the Indian Ocean and of the hotel’s man-made
lagoon surrounded by lush gardens at the villa’s club lounge. Guests making direct bookings for any stay from May 15, 2013 to end August 2013 will receive a promotional rate of two nights for the price of one. For more information, contact the resort’s reservation team at +62 361773377 or res@nikkobali.com
Fresh look THAILAND Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket has re-launched its Dusit Laguna Hall meeting space, following a two-month 10 million baht (US$340,000) renovation programme. The hall, which can accommodate up to 260 people theatre-style and 180 for seated banquets, now features sophisticated carpeting, antique carvings, textured fabrics and furnishings complemented by state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment including a 55-inch LED TV, ceiling and mobile projectors and a white screen. Free Wi-Fi internet connection is also provided throughout the resort. An extensive foyer provides a view of the Andaman sea.
Re-modelled executive boardroom and or breakout rooms include Suriyan (Sun), Chantra (Moon) and Dara (Star), all located in the main building and offer panoramic views and natural daylight. The resort also offers 2275 square metres of flexible outdoor teambuilding space at Columbia garden, nestled between a lagoon and a beach.
Hill-top gem SINGAPORE Nestled within the lush surrounds of a tropical rainforest, and just 10 minutes from the city, The Jewel Box atop Mount Faber is Singapore’s iconic hilltop destination. Boasting panoramic views of Singapore’s harbour, city skyline and Sentosa, private event can be hosted here in style. Opt for the 240-seater Diamond Palace Ballroom or the loft-like 60-seater Private Dining Room, both featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows for guests to fully appreciate the unobstructed views either has to offer. Alternatively, a selection of versatile restaurants, namely Sapphire, Black Opal and Faber Bistro are also popular picks with event organisers. Each venue comes equipped with an audio-visual system, and a dedicated and experienced team for any event held at The Jewel Box. Home to the iconic Singapore Cable Car, event organisers can set a unique tone for guests to take a Cable Car ride straight to The Jewel Box at Mount Faber and to the doorsteps of the venue. Beyond a typical setting, add variety to the programme by hosting delegates on the Bejewelled Tour – a customisable and exclusive tour accompanied by a personal tour steward. Indulge your guests with privileged treatment and priority access into many Sentosa attractions including Universal Studios. For those looking to impress, choose options such as a world-class golf session at Sentosa Golf Course, a leisurely yacht cruise, or board Singapore Cable Car’s Swarovski-encrusted World’s First 7* VIP Jewelled Cabin. W: www.mountfaber.com.sg
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Taste Makers
Master
Feelgood This year, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre is turning the attention towards its award-winning culinary team and chefs who have undergone a basic nutritional course. Story by Kristie Thong
The five-feet yellow fin tuna on Australia Day.
A chef showmanship station.
With Malaysia continually doing what it does best by beefing up cultural experiences, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) is highlighting its gastronomic prowess by dedicating this year as a Year of Culinary Excellence. KLCC general manager Datuk Peter Brokenshire says the rationale behind this was part of the venue’s effort to constantly add value with innovative product offerings. Focusing on KLCC’s epicurean offerings will allow it to create “a point of difference” from its competitors, he adds. The Centre kicked off the programme with its “State-of-the-Art Banqueting” experience during the Australia Day 2013 celebration. Using hanging pedestals and chef showmanship stations, it contained platforms where chefs and their culinary skills were displayed in front of an interactive live event audience. There was also a buffet line consisting large displays of seafood, along with a magnificent ice sculpture featuring iconic images such as Sydney Harbour Bridge 56
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and the kangaroo. A highlight was a fivefeet fresh yellow fin tuna specially-flown in from Australia for this event, with two chefs present to carve thin slices upon request in front of guests. While the Year of Culinary Excellence had kicked off with a world-class albeit non-local experience, KLCC has also enhanced its themed menus to cater to the growing number of repeat clients requesting for more varied Asian tastes, including: Greater China, Incredible India, Malaysia Truly Asia, Nyonya Heritage, Southeast Asia, and Amazing Thailand. It will also be rolling out new cuisine promotions each quarter for guests looking for a touch of local – with Chinese food in “Modern Ching”, “Contemporary Traditional Malay” and “State-of-the-Art Buffets”, and “Indian Delights and Festive Occasions” in Q4.
catering outlets have started delivering a wide selection of healthy choices. Most significantly, a group of KLCC’s chefs had undergone a course at the Sunway Medical Centre to arm themselves with the technical know-how to create and tailor special dietary menus. The Centre took home the “Most Outstanding Team in Culinary”, “Most Outstanding Chef”, “Iron Butcher Chef of the Year 2011” and “Most Outstanding Bartender” awards at the bi-annual Culinaire Malaysia 2011. Its reputation firmly established in culinary makes it no surprise for KLCC’s initiative in 2013, as well as the events it is playing host to. It hosted the Youth Chef’s Table in April, an event organised by the Chefs Association of Malaysia as a platform to develop and educate young aspiring chefs. The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs annual dinner will be held at the Centre for the fifth consecutive year in July, gathering food and wine connoisseurs from all over the world.
stronomic Array of ga ainst the ag g rin fe of t magnificen ice-carving.
Eating right Another initiative in the Year of Culinary Excellence is the highlight of healthy options and work-life balance, where Mr Brokenshire says he has recognised a growing number of requests for dishes “that meet special dietary and nutritional needs”. Its banqueting menus, meeting and conferences packages, as well as public
Hanging
pedesta
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erts.
Curtain Call
I derive immense job satisfaction from being in the MICE industry, especially after having successfully delivered an event despite how tough the challenges in dealing with the client and their varying requirements could have been. MICE is definitely not a cookie cutter job. The dynamic nature of the industry gives me the opportunity to think outside the box and be creative in delivering a memorable experience for each customer.” JESSIE KHOO PAN PACIFIC SINGAPORE DIRECTOR OF SALES
The MICE industry offers me many unique opportunities to do things that challenge my creativity and display my passion. For the love of the client I have had no hesitation to give of my best towards an event to ensure that they have memories that last their lifetime.” CHARLES TEE T3E GLOBAL CEO
Why we love MICE micenet ASIA and AONIA’s video campaign encouraging the industry to express their reasons for loving the industry has concluded on a high note. Here’s a peek with some quotes from the submissions.
A rich diversity of experiences, global collaborations, passionate professionals, travel that never ceases to bring new insights - these are all reasons why I love the MICE industry!” DANIEL CHUA AONIAMICE MANAGING DIRECTOR
MICE opens the door to a world of possibilities.” CAPRI BY FRASER
I love MICE because I get to create unique experiences for people.” JACQUELINE ONG SINGAPORE POLYTECHNIC DIPLOMA IN INTEGRATED EVENTS & PROJECT MANAGEMENT STUDENT
Download the free June-July iPad edition of micenet ASIA to view the full-length video montage of this campaign. Search for “micenet ASIA” in the Apple apps store. Campaign partners
Sponsors
ASIA micenet Asia
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目录
2013年 6月至7月双月刊
特写 未来掌握在我们的手中 59 60 62 64
绿色申报: 碳的“压力” 封面故事：滨海湾金沙综合娱乐城 滨海湾金沙综合娱乐城技压群雄，在 亚洲商务活动行业中保持领先地位。 菲律宾：相约在马尼拉湾 如何与众不同: 成为一名优秀的活动 运营经理
micenet 亚洲很荣幸成为以下机构的成员:
我们无需《难以忽视的真相》（An Inconvenient Truth），一部在2006年上映、由美 国前副总统戈尔主演、有关气候变迁的纪录片来 提醒我们地球正遭受破坏。相信很多人已意识到 气候的极端在多方面影响了我们的生活，而且情 况越来越严重。在欧洲地区，冬天不断在延长， 直至春天甚至夏天，而在热带国家，高温难耐的 白天似乎越来越长，时而又遭受狂风暴雨。 人类的活动对地球的影响长期以来是一个争 论不休、众说纷纭的课题。如今商务活动行业中 的专业人士也参与讨论之中，正视地球遭受破坏 这个问题。我们的商业活动每年都排放数十亿公 吨的碳，目前的总排放量已从2009年的9亿公吨 增至35.6亿公吨。 这个数字是惊人的，如今有许多来自不同领 域的公司已采取措施，尽力减少碳的排放量。尤 其是商务活动这个行业，已开始寻求不同的方法 来减少资源的浪费。领先带头的是英国废物及 资源行动计划（UK Waste & Resources Action Programme）承诺到了2020年，将资源浪费减 至零。这项计划本是2012年伦敦奥运会英国标准 BS8901中的一部分。全新的全球可持续性标准 ISO20121就是基于英国标准 BS 8901在活动可持 续性管理体系方面的成功经验。泰国会议展览局 是第二个采用这个标准的机构，这个举动使泰国 成为世界上仅次于英国将这个标准用于会展业的 第二个国家。 虽然环保行动已经开始，但是无可否认， 拯救地球需要企业伙伴、场地、供应商以及每一 个人的共同努力。在这一期，我们来看一看一些 公司如何通过碳抵消计划为环保尽一份力。 （页59） micenet亚洲近期推出了iPad应用程式也是环 保之举。micenet亚洲iPad版将为亚洲及其他地区 的读者提供更多互动的可能性。有兴趣的读者只 需通过苹果程序店就可免费下载。 愿这一期的Micenet亚洲能为您提供有用的资 讯，也敬请您继续与我们分享你对可持续性发展 的真知灼见，以及活动策划者可以如何为环保尽 一份力。 唐艳敏 编辑
欲知更多详情，请浏览网址: 封面：由滨海湾金沙提供
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节能环保是大势所趋
碳的 随着越来越多亚洲公司提倡“绿色”环保， 许多场地和供应商通过实际的方法来贯 彻环保理念，为当地的社会造福。 编纂：Kristie Thong 在一项2010年比较全球业务会议和 活动前景的FutureWatch 报告中，百分 之七十六的会议策划者表示，企业社 会责任将成为他们组织的下一个重点项 目。澳大利亚气候问题解决方案公司 (Climate Friendly) 的成员来自39个国 家，由1832位国际会议专业人员组成。 其中967个是活动策划者，813名是供应 商。百分之八十的商家将“绿色环保” 作为主办活动的考量之一。其中百分之 七十三的商家会避免在一个没有良好环 境保护记录的目的地主办活动。此外， 百分之八十的受访者认为环境保护在未 来将受到人们的重视。近乎一半的受访 者也表示客户将要求活动策划者将“绿 色环保”和社会课题作为策划活动的考 量之一。 供应商已开始为客户提供更具环保意 识的活动。会展中心也积极地与第三方环 境检测认证机构携手合作，以确保整个运 营程序具有可持续性，小至为垃圾桶标 上不同颜色以减少资源浪费及鼓励资源回 收，大至安装太阳能镶板。酒店也致力为 活动预订者提供最佳环保选项以降低活动 对环境产生的负面影响，如节约资源，以 及如何主办一场“无纸化会议”。 根据澳大利亚气候问题解决方案公司 营销总监Sally Castle的看法：越来越多 企业也意识到“可持续性发展”不只是 应当做的事，它也是降低营业成本的好 方法。 她表示：“在商务活动行业中，可持 续性发展受到了极大的重视– –从场地、 酒店、交通营办商到舞台设计及创意服 务，大家都一一对可持续性发展作出了 承诺。”
绿色认证是必要的吗？ 新加坡 Four Seasons 酒店销售及市场营 销总监Austin Watkins认为商务会展与奖
通过碳抵消项目，反馈社会
当一家公司支持高品质 的碳抵消项目，他们也间接 地在支持教育事业、创造就 业机会、以及为发展中国家 的人民谋福利。” SALLY CASTLE 澳大利亚气候问题解决方案公司 (Climate Friendly) 营销总监 励旅游业向来重视生态旅游与企业社会 责任，尤其是北美的客户更是如此。他 们正试图寻找一种方法，不仅能为社会 及环境尽一份力，也能组织一次极有意 义又让人难忘的绿色会议。 虽然人们的环保意识普遍提高，但是 否会付诸于行动却是另一个问题。Austin Watkins表示：“询问可持续性发展的客 户固然有增加的趋势，但是他们并不一 定就会全面支持“绿色”认证。” 作为一家以数码营销和数码媒体解决 方案为主的公司– –Adobe公司全力支持“ 绿色”行动，并且身体力行环保举措。 Adobe东南亚营销经理Janie Lim认 为：“虽然“绿色”认证是在选择场地 时，必须考量的因素之一，但是它并不 能百分百为你赢得生意。” “在亚洲，人们普遍上不是很清楚活 动场地如何具体落实可持续性发展。酒 店或活动场地并没有主动向客户提供这 方面的信息。”
在企业活动业中，许多场地和供应商已 开始展开碳抵消计划。根据Ms Castle的 看法，他们提供了一个简捷、直接，而 且经济有效的方法来降低碳的排放量。 通常通过具有“绿色”环保意识及对社 会有益的项目如风电场、燃料转换等来 实践。 “当一家公司支持高品质的碳抵消项 目，他们也间接地在支持教育事业、创 造就业机会、以及为发展中国家的人民 谋福利。” 根据Ms Castle，碳抵消计划已渐渐 在东南亚地区落实，虽然这项计划在澳 大利亚和新西兰已很盛行。 好一些活动场地已通过植树计划、水 电厂及风力计划来落实碳抵消项目。例 如希尔顿全球酒店集团，运用LightStay 会议影响计算器来检测一场活动或会 议所排放的碳含量，然后向其业务伙 伴– –澳大利亚气候问题解决方案公司 （Climate Friendly）购买碳信用额。气 候问题解决方案公司再用售卖碳信用额 赚取的资金来支助在那一带的其他碳友 好型计划，以抵消活动或会议所排放的 碳含量。 如果你选择了一个与你的业务紧密结 合的项目，并选择一个有信誉的供应商， 那么你就可以在实践“绿色”环保的同 时，激励你的客户、员工和供应商。 Ms Castle觉得，企业若能预料未 来发展趋势和市场动向、为变化做好准 备，并及早采取行动，那么就可以在一 个充满活力的市场中获得最大的利益。 尤其是在可持续环保方案上。越来 越多的企业和会议组织者更加重视会议 的“绿色”和“ 环保”，许多客户更期 望他们的生意伙伴具有可持续发展的凭 据。更重要的是，碳抵消和“绿色”措 施已成为业务发展的需求。 micenet Asia
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让光辉更显风采 滨海湾金沙以创新的 绿色举措、新技术以 及一个优厚的会展奖 励计划技压群雄，在 亚洲商务活动行业中 保持领先地位。 编纂：Kristie Thong
自2010年开业，滨海湾金沙(Marina Bay Sands)的独特建筑设计已经成为 新加坡城市天际线的一个壮观景象。其 建筑群除了三座高达55层楼的酒店大厦 外，还包括一个340米长、绿意盎然的空 中花园、以及一个150米长的无边际游泳 池。滨海湾金沙拥有超过2500间客房和 套房，是新加坡最大的酒店。这个以商 务会展与奖励旅游（MICE）为导向的综 合娱乐城也拥有超过120,000平方米的会 议空间、一个状似莲花盛开的艺术科学 博物馆、两个世界级的剧院以及一个规 模庞大的豪华购物广场。 滨海湾金沙的综合性设施在商务活动 行业内引起人们的广泛关注。仅在2012 年，金沙就举办了51场展会及展览。 “我认为这个数字是显著的，因为 很多这些展览会返回新加坡是因为我们 场地的规模，或是因闻名而第一次前来 新加坡，” 拉斯维加斯金沙集团全球销 售和亚洲度假村营销高级副总裁 John Mims说。
滨海湾金沙的精彩娱乐节日之一 －《歌剧魅影》
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滨海湾金沙在2012年举办了青年总裁 组织世界领导人峰会。对我们来说，举 办这场峰会的意义重大，因为与会者都 是各自领域的领导者，他们每个人都是 我们的潜在客户，滨海湾金沙很有可能 成为他们下一个企业会议及奖励旅游的 目的地。 “我们深感荣幸有机会举办这个盛 会。” John Mims表示 去年十月是滨海湾金沙综合娱乐胜地 最繁忙的时期，仅在这个月就创纪录地 举办了13场展览会，如第五届世界建筑 节、新加坡百分百设计、久负盛名的对 冲基金天桥资本的“天桥选择”论坛和 2012年TravelRave亚洲旅游节。 我们的业务并非起步稳健。我们也担 心业绩达不到预期的目标。可是十月份 和第四季的辉煌业绩为我们打了一剂强 心针，让我们对2013年的业绩充满无限 期待。 滨海湾金沙已在今年一月至三月份举 办了15场展览会，而John Mims相信这 个数字将会继续上升。我们将加强促销 活动的执行力，继续通过展览会开拓台 湾、上海、北京、澳大利亚和北美等的 市场。 我们也与澳门金沙携手合作，极力向 海外市场推销我们的产品，让他们了解 我们的综合娱乐胜地，毕竟这是一个蛮 新的概念。
两全其美 John Mims坚信完备的会议和休闲娱乐 设施必能让滨海湾金沙受到活动组织者 的青睐。
亚洲国际旅游展招待会－－滨海湾金沙空中花园
会议、会展场地到处 都有，但是并非每个场地 都具备像我们这样齐全的 设施。无论是小至4或10 人的小型私密会议，或 大至30, 0000人的大型盛 会，我们的会议设施都能 满足你的需求。 我们甚至可以与音乐 剧《狮子王》和《歌剧魅 影》的演员商洽，邀请 他们在您的会议上呈献表 演，为活动助兴。 作为一个在“可持续发展”方面取得 多项第三方环境检测认证的综合娱乐胜 地，滨海湾金沙致力于绿色会议和绿色 会奖旅游。为了落实“绿色”理念，金 沙推出了“生态360计划”。金沙生态 360计划属于全球性的可持续发展战略， 这个项目是在拉斯维加斯金沙总部的带 领下，在金沙集团旗下的所有酒店和度 假村推行。 任何热爱环境、热爱地球的会议组 织者和公司，若有兴趣在滨海湾金沙举 办活动可以与金沙独一无二的绿色会议
我们的业务并非起步 稳健。我们也担心业绩达 不到预期的目标。可是十 月份和第四季的辉煌业绩 为我们打了一剂强心针， 让我们对2013年的业绩充 满无限期待。
封面故事
管理员联系，他们能根据客户的需求为 客户定制多样化的绿色产品和提供最佳 环保选项来降低会议对环境所产生的影 响，如节约资源、节省纸张、废物转移 和室内空气质量管理方案等。活动结束 后，还有向客户展示《金沙生态360计划 报告书》，详细说明他们的活动对环境 的影响，内容包括能源和水源的使用情 况以及废品的转化率等。 John Mims表示：“虽然少于百分之 二十的客户在金沙属下的所有产业举办 活动时有‘可持续性发展’的需求，但 几乎每一名客户都会谈及这个课题。” “可持续性发展”的需求虽不比价 格和场地的问题来得重要，但活动策划 者都意识到它的存在，可以说它在行业 中仍然处于被接受的阶段。当我们向活 动策划者推销我们的绿色会议计划，而 且让他们知道这个计划如何为他们减少 开支时，他们就会很乐意接受，并采 用它。
更上一层楼 滨海湾金沙的“可持续性发展”计划很 大一部分运用了最先进的方案--会议应 用程式。 John Mims 说：“我们已在我们所有 的产业建立了一个会议应用程式让客户 可以随时使用。预先设置和设计的程式 也已在滨海湾金沙启用。 全面支持苹果iOS和安卓操作系统， 并与大多数智能手机和平板电脑兼容， 这个会议应用程式的多用功能包括：可 以让活动策划者和与会者查询活动时间 表、调度日历、阅读演讲嘉宾的履历及
青年总裁组织世界领导人峰会开幕晚宴
宽敞舒适的会议室
演讲简报、一个简讯功能以及查询有关 场地的信息。此外，这个会议应用程式 还设有GPS导航功能，指引与会者到他 们欲去展览摊位或展馆的另一方。 此外，后端内容管理系统允许会议组 织者自由上载活动时间表和其他文件及 资料。 “这是一个非常出色的技术，为我 们节省了大量的纸张，也提高了整个工 作效率。” 在商务会展与奖励旅游取得成功后， 滨海湾金沙随即为客户推出新一轮的忠 诚度计划。 金沙尊赏会议，是一个针对会议、 奖励旅游和展览（MICE）而设的忠诚 计划。会议组织者通过在综合娱乐城举 办活动、用餐、购物和宴请宾客等赢得 奖励积分。所得积分可用于未来的活动 或可在超过175家金沙尊赏地点进行消 费，包括在酒店、停车场、餐馆以及其 它商店。 这是一个金钱奖励，为的是鼓励 顾客继续以滨海湾金沙作为他们的活动 场地。 此外，金沙尊赏会议的会员将享有会 员尊尚礼遇，包括获邀参加特别餐饮活
青年总裁组织世界领导人峰会展示现场
可持续性“的需求虽不 比价格和场地的问题来得重 要，但活动策划者都意识到 它的存在，可以说它在行业 中仍然处于被接受的阶段。 当我们向活动策划者推销我 们的绿色会议计划，而且让 他们知道这个计划如何为他 们减少开支时，他们就会很 乐意接受，并采用它。 JOHN MIMS 拉斯维加斯金沙集团 (Las Vegas Sands Corp.) 全球销售和亚洲度假村营销高级副总裁
动、在金沙购物广场精选零售商店享受 折扣优惠、以及优先购买演出及展览会 门票。 我们非常重视我们的客户，并致力为 我们的忠诚客户提供优厚的奖励，因此 我们才推出像“金沙尊赏会议”这样的 奖励计划。
2012年新加坡男装时装周鸡尾酒会
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相约在马尼拉湾
马尼拉世界贸易中心
很多人都知道马尼拉湾的夕阳美景激发了许多代画家及骚客的灵感，让 他们创作了无数的艺术作品，然而却很少有人意识到，马尼拉湾的海岸 线也是亚洲当前充满活力和繁华的会展业的摇篮。 编纂：Angela Blardony Ureta
早在1976年，菲律宾政府已斥资建 设国际会议中心（PICC）以发展其会 展业。菲律宾国际会议中心是该地区第 一个全面性的会议场地，在开业的第 一年，就举办了世界银行 －－国际货 币基金组织年会作为开幕活动。这个一 流的会议中心由国家级艺术家Leandro Locsin设计，整个建筑群包括了菲律宾 文化中心（CCP），矗立于马尼拉市填 海造地的新区内，毗邻菲律宾首都风景 优美的马尼拉湾。菲律宾文化中心是目 前该国举办大型活动、展览、娱乐及康 乐的主要场地。
除了菲律宾文化中心外，其他具有标 志性的建筑还包括：民族艺术剧院 （为1974年的环球小姐大赛而建）、椰 子宫、城市之星，Aliw剧院和索菲特菲律 宾广场。再往南，我们就可看见马尼拉 世界贸易中心、菲律宾贸易培训中心和 菲律宾参议院大楼。 在往日，亚洲最大和最重要的国际 及区域活动总是在菲律宾国际会议中心 举行。然而，随着许多更新、更时尚的 活动场地的出现，以及面对邻国的激烈 竞争，菲律宾目前正面对一场艰苦的战 斗：希冀在竞争激烈的会展业中争得一 席之地，恢复其昔日的辉煌。
卷土重来 近年来，菲律宾旅游官员雄心勃勃，推出 了一系列的计划，并以最新的口号“更多 欢乐，尽在菲律宾”来吸引世界的目光， 重新审视这个享有东方之珠美誉的马尼 拉。独特的众多美景及刺激的岛屿冒险之 旅更是吸引了无数的外国游客，去年抵菲 律宾游客首次突破400万人次。虽然还未 达到像新加坡、马来西亚以及泰国那样的 两位数的增幅，但这个佳绩足以让菲律宾 被世界经济论坛2013旅游业竞争力报告 评为“进步最快的亚洲国家”。 然而，对于商务旅游来说，“欢乐” 并非关注的重点，值得关注的是菲律宾
我们非常乐观菲律 宾将成为竞争力强的会 展旅游目的地。现在就 看我们如何推出可以满 足市场需求的产品和服 务，以确保我们的客户 不感到失望”。 CHANELLE GARVEY 马尼拉索菲特菲律宾广场酒店 销售和营销总监 62
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马尼拉索菲特菲律宾广场酒店
菲律宾
峰会厅D－－菲律宾国际会议中心
经济发展的惊人速度。去年3月，纽约的 惠誉评级（Fitch Ratings）将菲律宾的 信贷评级上调至投资级--这是有史以来 的第一次，它不仅肯定了菲律宾是一个 受人欢迎的旅游目的地，也肯定了它的 投资潜能。 菲律宾的增长势头是否会重新引起全 球会展业的兴趣呢？且让我们看一看马 尼拉湾繁华的景象就可以知道菲律宾会 展业的前景将会是一片光明。
接待世界各国领袖 去年5月，亚洲开发银行（亚行）理事会 第45届年会顺利地在菲律宾国际会议中 心举行。本次活动汇集了来自67个成员 国的4000多名代表参加。与会者包括了 财政和发展部长、中央银行行长以及来 自私营部门、民间社会和媒体等多个领 域的代表。据报道，这是迄今为止出席 率最高的亚行年会。 作为亚洲首个国际会展中心，菲律宾 国际会议中心在筹划高端活动方面独具 优势。在过去的37年里，它已举办过多 个重要的亚太地区外交、政治和经济论 坛，如世界银行－－国际货币基金组织 年会、世界旅游组织大会、东盟政府首 脑会议和亚太经合组织部长级会议等。 “我们的优势是在同一个屋檐下， 设有众多的活动空间。我们拥有全国数 量最多的会议厅和最齐备的活动设施， 而且我们的多功能厅可以根据使用需求 灵活地被分割和合并”。菲律宾国际会 议中心副总经理Roberto Garcia说。 大多数的高端峰会在全会厅举行， 这个剧院式的会厅可以容纳4000人，并 配有无线红外同声传译系统（SIS），在 任何给定时间内可进行7种语言的同声 传译。 至于社交活动和庆典，装潢极致奢 华且品味独特的接待厅是最佳的选择。 顶部华丽的水晶吊灯更使整个接待厅彰 显得璀璨夺目 --这里是举办诸如卢西亚 诺·帕瓦罗蒂晚餐音乐会或环球小姐总 决赛等盛会的最佳理想选择。
菲律宾国际会议中心展览厅
“筹办活动和展 览不只是单纯地租用空 间--它是关于人与人之 间的交流。我们菲律宾人 最擅长的，莫过于建立良 好关系”。 PAMELA PASCUAL 马尼拉世界贸易中心 副总裁
更大的空间，更密切的关系 作为世界贸易中心协会成员之一的马尼 拉世界贸易中心（WTCMM）开始运作于 1996年，是菲律宾第一个世界级，也是 迄今为止，唯一被国际展览业协会所承 认的展览场地。 世界贸易中心展览馆的总面积为 11300万平方米，室内高度为10米。这 样的规格让我们在安排场地时有很大的 灵活性和自由度，即使是最复杂的活动 布局，如两层楼的展位设置和广阔的设 计，我们也可按需调整。在过去的17年 里，许多的大型活动，如马尼拉家具及 家具配件展（FAME）、菲律宾国际建材 五金展览会（Worldbex）、马尼拉国际 汽车展、亚洲食品博览会和世界食品博 览会，以及一些年度集贸市场和贸易展 览都在这里举行。 马尼拉世界贸易中心副总裁Pamela Pascual说：“我们可以明显感觉到经济 正在好转，而我们必须抓紧时机，顺势 拓展业务”。其重点之一是推进中心的 总体规划，其中包括在一块5公顷的土地 上建造一家酒店和一幢办公楼。
Pamela Pascual也补充说：“作为一 个提供‘一站式’服务的贸易中心，工 程的扩建是为了建立新的业务关系，以 及与旧客户重新建立业务关系。 这是回 到菲律宾的一个好时机。而筹办活动和 展览不只是单纯地租用空间 －－它是关 于人与人之间的交流。我们菲律宾人最 擅长的，莫过于建立良好关系”。
吃喝玩乐与工作 随着索菲特灵感会议计划 （InspiredMeetings™）的推出，凡在索 菲特举办活动的宾客和活动策划公司将 得到一个专属团队随时为你提供专业顾 问及个人化服务。任何顾客的请求，即 使是非一般的请求，InspiredMeetings™ 策划人也将尽其所能，以满足宾客。此 外，诸如活动规划及协调和活动执行及 事后活动等事宜也将有专人一手包办。 马尼拉索菲特菲律宾广场酒店销售和 营销总监Chanelle Garvey说：“索菲特 的独特之处在于宾客可以在酒店内的著 名旗舰餐厅Spiral享用精致美食、感受与 众不同的用餐体验。这个斥资1100万美 元打造的美食“奇迹”，拥有21间餐饮 工作室，提供东西方美食、菲律宾精致 美食以及一个世界一流的葡萄酒酒窖、 一家法国面包店和巧克力室。这是亚洲 餐饮风格的一个创新，Spiral无疑已成为 马尼拉首屈一指及最受欢迎的餐厅。 Chanelle Garvey主任进一步强 调：“虽然我国的会展旅游业这仍然面 对许多挑战，但我们非常高兴政府正在 加大发展旅游业。我们非常乐观菲律宾 将成为竞争力强的会展旅游目的地。现 在就看我们如何推出可以满足市场需求 的产品和服务，以确保我们的客户不感 到失望”。 micenet Asia
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如何与众不同
成为一名优秀的活动运营经理 运营经理一直被视为一个多方位的专业职责，他除了需有足够的技术和知 识外，更重要的是与活动组织者紧密合作，清楚地明白他们的一切需求。 当micenet亚洲采访一位经验丰富的活动策划者以及一名场地提供者，一 个称职的运营经理应具备什么条件时，双方都一致认为“软技能”远比技 术专长重要，而且是保留业务关键的因素。 编纂： Kristie Thong
杨瑞安 一个强势的品牌或良好的声誉已不再足 以确保业务的持续发展。会展业已经发展成一个竞 争非常激烈的商业战场，许多场地都纷纷为客户提供增值服 务、多元化产品以及优惠的价格。想要在如此激烈的商业竞争中求 存求胜将仰赖于不同层面的策略。 许多会展场地都出资建设相关设备，如开发互联网连接和智能技术能力以 区分自己与竞争对手。但是硬件设施本身并不足以让一家公司在同业中脱颖而出。 “软件设施” 是推动业绩和增加利润回报的关键因素。有效的流程和技能是促进持久 业务关系关的催化剂，而公司所雇用的人员，不仅要熟悉整个活动流程，也须有适当的 专才技能，以更好地应对客户的需求。 在众多的关键因素中，员工丰富的专业知识和应变能力显得至关重要。他们必须有能力 为客户所遇到的难题提出有效且独特的方案。 要做到这一点，必须制定完整的流程，其中职业健康及安全程序、防火测试标准以及 健全的安全疏散管理制度是极为重要的。 此外，流程必须精简以促进有效的沟通和协作。场地运营商必须提供高效 的“一站式”服务--所有活动细节，从一开始到结束都有一系列行之有 效的“管理”手段作支撑。 有了完善的硬件和“软件” 设施，场馆将能吸引更多 客户和确保业务的持续发展。
Antony Ettler 在众多的关键因 素中，员工丰富的专 业知识和应变能力显 得至关重要。他们必 须有能力为客户所遇 到的难题提出有效且 独特的方案。” 杨瑞安 创意及活动管理专业人士
受访者小档案 杨瑞安拥有超过15年的创意及活动管理 经验，他曾策划及管理多个新加坡及亚太 地区的会议、产品及服务展览、以及产业 和品牌发布会。他的丰富经验也包括了为 重要和高端客户制作世界首演和世界一 流的表演。 Antony Ettler曾在澳大利亚雪梨的某一家 大机构担任至少10年的运营经理。他的职 责包括管理9个规模介于10到2000人的活 动场地、聘请新员工、经理及监事培训、 员工排班，以及联系重要客户。
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一个成功的运营经理应具备什么条件？或许有人会说是 “知识和技术技能”。我认为知识和技术技能固然重要，但更重要 的是X因素。知识和技术技能在实际工作中或任何管理课程中都学得到，但 X因素却不能。我所谓的X因素指的是那些被称为“软技能”的人格特质。这不 仅包括能与不同社会文化背景的人沟通，还能与同侪及工作相关的人和睦相处。运营 经理不只在公司内部各部门起着举足轻重的作用，在联系公司外部的许多业务伙伴如供应 商等也扮演了重要的角色。总之，若无法在高压的环境中判断事情的轻重缓急及优先顺序， 就无法胜任这个职务。 例如，在一个盛大的宴会上，主菜即将上桌，就在这个时候，你的客户要求主菜推迟10分钟上桌， 因为公司总裁需致辞。在这紧要关头，另外三个棘手的问题接踵而至：一个迟到的与会者要求服务 员将他错过的鲑鱼副菜端给他，可是厨师却说所有副菜已倾情奉上，一份也没剩。这时另一个下属跑 来告诉你啤酒机坏了，而在座的许多宾客正在喝啤酒。与此同时，在阳台上，一场酒精消耗（RSA） 的问题正在上演。为了筹备这个盛宴，你已不眠不休，持续工作了16个小时。这时你心中自问，没有 新鲜鲑鱼，是否可用干鱼取代？事实是，若采用干鱼，所有的培训，策划和努力将白费。若是你， 该怎么办？ 判断了问题的轻重缓急后，身为运营经理的你认为准时为宾客奉上主菜是三个问题中最重要 的，你果断地委派下属去解决其它两个问题，然后你亲自向客户解释，并说服他总裁可以在 主菜上桌时才致辞。向客户说“不”一般在酒店管理及服务业中被视为“禁忌”，但有 时形势所需，而本能的判断告诉你必须这么做，那么你就应该很有技巧地向客户说“ 不”。 总之，缺乏“软技能”--对问题的常识性了解和本能的判断（英语中的 common sense）、懂得合理分配工作、判断事情的轻重缓急及 优先顺序、在睡眠不足的情况下仍可照常工作和良好 的沟通技巧，你将无法成为一名成功的运 营经理。
Join American Express Meetings & Events for a discussion on the evolving meetings marketplace at our exclusive Quarterly Forums. Asia Pacific is evolving in terms of how we manage meetings. As an experienced provider of end-to-end meetings management solutions, we at American Express Meetings & Events understand that this evolution creates new challenges and exciting opportunities. We invite you to join us for a quarterly Forum programme to discuss meetings and events priorities, challenges and practices. You will get the opportunity to network with your peers and share experiences, gaining exposure to best practices to enhance your own meetings management programme. American Express Meetings & Events will share insights from our experience and perspective, as well as engage experts across the industry.
Participation is limited. If you are interested in joining, please contact Stephanie.Ong@aexp.com to request your place. micenet Asia
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2013年 6月至7月双月刊
不断推出新举措让新加坡的 顶尖机构在激烈的商业竞争中保持领先地位 66
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