A global events hub

The business events industry has become a juggernaut. A 2023 Oxford Economics and Events Industry Council study found the sector had a direct GDP impact worth US$662.6 billion in 2019 – a long way from the days where gatherings were limited to weekend conferences at an airport hotel.

Behind the scenes of these events, however, is a highly sophisticated ecosystem that ensures flawless execution. Yet the seamless experience for exhibitors and attendees masks the immense effort required to bring such events to life.

It’s anything but effortless, according to Mala Dorasamy, CEO of Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

“MITEC has received so much global recognition over the past three years,” she tells The CEO Magazine. “We’re regarded as the leading venue in Malaysia, Asia and, as of last year, a world-class exhibition destination.”

Empowering women

A key driver of MITEC’s success is its dynamic and diverse leadership team, with women making up 70 percent of the workforce.

“It’s important for women leaders to be authentic, to lead with integrity and to mentor the next generation,” she says. “We are shaping a culture where everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the industry’s growth.”

Dorasamy’s personal journey has been just as significant as that of the business events industry. Originally from South Africa, her experience in the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry was key to joining the MITEC team seven years ago.

“As a woman leading an industry that was previously predominantly male-led, it was exciting and interesting for me to apply my knowledge and experience in establishing operations at MITEC,” she recalls.

As Malaysia’s largest exhibition venue, MITEC plays a pivotal role in positioning Kuala Lumpur as a premier MICE destination, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and contributing significantly to economic growth, tourism and business development.

MITEC is owned by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation and managed by Qube Integrated Malaysia. This strategic leadership structure has strengthened its position as a world-class venue that continues to drive economic impact.

Built on a 30.5-hectare site in metropolitan Kuala Lumpur, MITEC offers much more than an exhibition hall. It offers a world-class setting for business events of all scales.

Growth and partnerships

The Green Building Index-certified site was built with sustainability in mind, with cutting-edge energy-saving features at the core of each building. It’s an enticing package not only locally, but also for global exhibitors looking for the perfect venue.

“MITEC plays quite a strategic role in Malaysia’s economy in terms of attracting international events,” Dorasamy says. “This has an entire ripple effect in terms of job creation as well as harnessing the gig economy.”

It has also prompted the growth of businesses in its orbit; a new hotel is scheduled to open adjacent to the site in 2025, while new food and beverage venues are in the works.

“We’re also driving workforce development through collaborations with universities, resulting in a graduate program designed to nurture young talent,” she confirms.

“Leadership development starts here. We’re investing in the next generation, ensuring we have a skilled, resilient workforce for the future.”

---

”Working with MITEC has been a rewarding experience to Sunderland Bakery. As its trusted bakery and pastry supplier, we ensure timely deliveries and consistently high-quality products. Our dedication to meeting its expectations has fostered a strong, reliable partnership, where excellence in service and food quality remains our top priority. We’re proud to support its culinary needs.” – Terrence Chong, Managing Director, Sunderland Bakery

---

Advertisement

A game-changer for MITEC under Qube’s management is the opportunity to curate and host its own events in collaboration with Qube’s events and exhibitions divisions. This synergy empowers both local businesses and international enterprises to showcase their offerings on a grand scale, with events accommodating up to 8,000 guests.

“The venue now benefits from Qube’s award-winning in-house production team, enabling us to produce our own events. This highlights MITEC’s enhanced end-to-end event services, reinforcing its appeal as a premier venue for organizers,” Dorasamy explains.

It’s the next stop on a diversification road map that will see MITEC integrate lifestyle and entertainment events over the coming years.

“Our core focus is as a trade and exhibition center, but we’re looking at B2B events that would catalyze Malaysia in terms of economic impact,” she says.

“Consumer events such as eSports or food festivals would bring foot traffic to Malaysia – the gateway to South-East Asia – and create job opportunities.”

While these exciting goals sit on the horizon, Dorasamy hasn’t lost sight of the present.

“At the moment MITEC has an opportunity to lead purposeful change,” she says. “It’s important for women leaders to be authentic, to lead with integrity and to mentor the young women around us.

“The future of MITEC is one of innovation, inclusion and excellence.”