It was a delight to experience, interact and network during the 31st IT&CM Asia and 26th CTW Asia-Pacific 2023 that brought back the good old memories of an in-person event. Aside from business and knowledge components, this year’s programme featured a wide array of activities, in and outside of booths, including targeted networking and knowledge sessions.

Sustainability/ Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) was at the forefront – not just in the events agenda but even when I conversed with the exhibitors, they felt that ESG was quite critical in today’s world.

The Opening Keynote by Mr Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, President of Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation; Adviser of Phuket Tourist Association shared insights on the positive impact of tourism/MICE partnerships help Thai communities. Bringing communities together to support tourism and MICE Partnerships was one of the key focus of the event this year.

During the event Daniel Chua, the Co-Founder, of MICECarbon, spoke on ‘How MICE can Decarbonize’. The presentation elaborated the vital role, the MICE industry can play in combatting climate change. At the CTW Conference there was focus on “Accelerate the Decarbonization of Business Travel – Role of ESG, Technology, and The Traveller Experience”. The session explored innovative strategies that leverage Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, cutting-edge technologies, and a focus on enhancing the traveller experience to create a sustainable future for business travel. Together, we can accelerate the decarbonization journey and pave the way towards a more environmentally conscious and responsible business travel ecosystem.

This year the show welcomed more than 240 new and returning destinations and brands along with more than 400 MICE, Association and Corporate Buyers from over 50 countries/territories, who took advantage of the bountiful procurement and networking opportunities.

A New Start at IT&CMA and CTW Asia Pacific

Asia Ability brought the delegates together during the “Say Hi to Everyone” ice-breaking which allowed new meetings and deeper connections.

Delegates also had a chance to view Bangkok with a tour around The Chaopraya Charming and Saneh Bangkok. Pre-registered delegates were also treated to a fun time at Topgolf Megacity.

The evening of day one culminated with the Opening Ceremony and Welcome Reception, co-hosted with by destination partner, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau. The extravaganza featured a delectable variety of Thai foods accompanied with performances by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) traditional dance troupe and The SwingKings.

Exhibition and Appointments

“Pattaya City is a world destination that’s known for its location and pricing, amazing activities from local to luxury, beautiful beaches, and many more. This clearly means that your MICE trips to Pattaya City would not only be a business trip because visitors can enjoy the city anywhere anytime in their own way.” PATTAYA MICE CITY, Thailand.

Destinations and organisations also displayed experiential elements at their booths with activities, giveaways, and entertainment. The highlights included food tasting from MEET TAIWAN; a Lion Dance Performance, destination showcases and lucky draws by Macao Trade And Investment Promotion Institute & The Economic Development Bureau of Hengqin; Augmented Reality by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB); and a Lucky draw by The Mulia Hotel & Resort Bali.

Initial delegate feedback indicated that the multiple networking and education opportunities combined with targeted scheduled meets were a key highlighted for many. The expanded appointment sessions allowed delegates greater flexibility and time to visit the different conferences, knowledge sessions, brand engagements, and showcases, as well as the various booths.

Travel and corporate fraternity will look forward to the next event scheduled from 24 – 26 September 2024.