Business event sector is key for Malaysia economic recovery

The revival of the Business Events (BE) industry is key to helping Malaysia economy to get back on track. Its survival is a must, therefore reclassification of this industry should be done now. BE can not be classified as a social activity. We cannot suffer another loss of RM 4.05 billion. Moreover, the wave of unemployment is getting worse as wait to move into Phase 4 of the National Recovery Plan (NRP).

The government should highlight specific provision that focuses on business continuity and economic resilience amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The government must recognise our contribution towards economic recovery. BE industry plays a big role as 'frontliner' in the economic sector. We would like to urge the government to enhance engagement with business events stakeholders. We believe that if events are conducted in strict adherence to the standard operating procedure (SOP), we can help to stimulate economy recovery.

Malaysia is on the path towards achieving herd immunity by the end of September through the successful implementation of the COVID-19 immunisation programme. We urge the government to consider easing restrictions imposed on business events. We are the 'frontliners' of the economy, and can contribute immensely in helping Malaysia to survive, revive and thrive.

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*Datuk Seri Dr Irmohizam Ibrahim is the Chairman, Conventions & Exhibitions Members Advisory Council (MAC) Asia Pacific, World Trade Centre Associations.

** The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of Astro AWANI.