Penang enjoyed an astonishing year of hosting conferences and business events last year - boosting revenues by almost a quarter and delegate numbers by a staggering 87 per cent.
The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) has unveiled its Business Events Penang 2024 Annual Review, revealing a record-breaking year for the sector.
Launched at the Iconic Marjorie Hotel, the review highlighted the state’s significant growth in business events, reinforcing its position as a leading MICE destination in Asia.
In 2024, Penang hosted 2,059 business events—an increase of 240.9% from the previous year—attracting 305,259 delegates (+87.3%) and generating 558,543 room nights (+3.6%). The Estimated Economic Impact (EEI) surged to RM1.29 billion, up 24.8% from 2023.
Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow commended the sector’s role in driving economic growth. “The RM1.29 billion impact underscores the immense opportunities business events bring to tourism, trade, and investment,” he said.
State Exco for Tourism & Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai stressed the importance of strategic partnerships. “Penang continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier business events destination. We aim to attract high-impact events and expand industry collaborations,” he noted.
PCEB CEO Ashwin Gunasekeran outlined the bureau’s vision for 2025. “We are committed to sustaining this momentum by deepening industry engagement, enhancing incentives, and embracing digital advancements,” he said.
With a strong focus on innovation and strategic development, PCEB remains dedicated to positioning Penang as a global hub for business events.
Written By
James Lancaster
AMI editor James
Lancaster is a familiar face in the meetings industry and international
association community. Since joining AMI in 2010, he has gained a reputation
for asking difficult questions and getting lost in convention centres. Proofer, podcaster, and panellist - in his spare time, James likes to walk,
read, listen to music, and drink beer.
