The Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (Maceos) and the Business Events Council Malaysia (BECM) said in a statement that the initiative was part of an effort to rebuild public confidence in the MICE industry and in line with their guidelines for business events, which have been developed in accordance with the National Security Council’s SOPs.
The launch of BE-READY at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre brought to life exhibition stand mock-ups and various event set-ups to demonstrate how business events in the new normal can be conducted in a controlled, organised, safe and structured manner.
In a statement last month, Senior Minister for Security Ismail Sabri Yaakob said trade and travel fairs as well as MICE would be allowed to resume from July 1.
“We are pleased to resume business events with strict adherence to stringent health and hygiene measures,” BECM chairman Alan Pryor said, adding that their prime importance is to provide a safe, controlled and regulated operating environment for their clients, stakeholders and event attendees.
“As a social and economic driver, business events deliver thousands of jobs and economic impact, and grow Malaysia’s profile and market share globally.
“We are confident that with the government’s support, the Malaysian business events industry is well positioned to rebound strongly. We are thrilled to be hosting events again safely and securely.”
The launch also included a briefing session for industry players and stakeholders on how to apply the guidelines when planning and executing their events.
The briefing covered employee and personal safety, physical distancing measures, increased health and safety measures, attendee management and control as well as on-site communication encouraging adherence and the provision of guidance and compliance.
Meanwhile, Maceos president Vincent Lim urged its members, conference and exhibition organisers, convention centres, contractors, service providers and other stakeholders to strictly comply with the industry SOPs.
“These guidelines must be practised to provide assurance and gain public confidence that business events like exhibitions and conferences are safe,” he said.
“All industry players must play their roles to collectively work and continue to take precautionary measures to ensure the safety and health of everyone.”
The launch was officiated by Noor Zari Hamat, secretary-general of the tourism, arts and culture ministry.