A Message from YB Wong Hon Wai

I am delighted to welcome all delegates, partners, and industry leaders to BE @ Penang 2025, Malaysia’s leading business events conference, held under the theme “BE at Penang: BE THE WAVE.”

The tourism and business events industries are two of Penang’s strongest pillars, each complementing the other to drive sustainable growth, innovation, and visibility for our state. Tourism brings the world to Penang to experience our rich heritage, culture, and hospitality, while the Business Events industry brings together thought leaders, professionals, and decision-makers who generate knowledge, spark collaborations, and create opportunities that extend far beyond the conference hall. Together, they form a powerful synergy that strengthens Penang’s reputation as a destination of both leisure and leadership.

The conversations and insights that will be shared at BE @ Penang 2025 are invaluable. As new trends and challenges continue to reshape industries globally, it is essential for all our partners in Penang’s tourism and business events ecosystem to stay informed. By learning, sharing, and adapting to these emerging directions, we can collectively move forward in the same direction — ensuring that Penang not only keeps pace with global developments but positions itself at the forefront of innovation and opportunity.

Looking ahead, the opening of the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC) in October 2025 will further strengthen the state’s position as a leading MICE destination in Northern Malaysia. As one of the largest purpose-built convention centres in the region, PWCC is expected to unlock new opportunities for hosting international summits, trade expos, and corporate gatherings. The synergy between Penang’s high-quality hotel infrastructure and this world-class event facility will undoubtedly elevate our competitiveness in the global MICE market.

At the same time, Penang’s international air connectivity continues to be a vital strength, with direct flights to 19 cities including Bangkok, Don Mueang, Phuket, Medan, Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh, Taipei, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Hong Kong, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, Dubai, Chennai, and Yangon. This extensive network makes Penang easily accessible to delegates and visitors from across Asia and beyond, reinforcing our role as a gateway for business, culture, and collaboration.

I would like to commend the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and all partners for their tireless efforts in bringing this important platform to life. May BE @ Penang 2025 spark new ideas, strengthen collaborations, and inspire every participant to be part of the wave of progress that continues to propel Penang forward.