A familiarization trip for post AMITE 2014 Conference delegates over 2 days in the south of Borneo, with Kuching city in the spotlight for the ultimate adventure experience.
KUCHING – Sarawak Convention Bureau (SCB) is proud to once again host a familiarization trip in collaboration with the Malaysian Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) – dedicated to high-level international professional conference organizers (PCOs), destination management companies (DMCs) and incentive houses to explore the possibilities of what Sarawak has to offer as a business events destination.
Following the recently completed Asia Meeting & Incentive Travel Exchange (AMITE) in Singapore, the clients dropped by Kuching from the 17th-19th July for a short interactive South Bornean quest as a post familiarization trip.
The familiarization received tremendous support from two of our industry partners; The Ranee Boutique Suites who graciously hosted their memorable stay and CPH Travel Agency (Sarawak) that delivered great service ensuring the programme went smoothly.
Delegates were immediately set on a mission upon their arrival as they were asked to select their rooms with a blow-pipe stunt – aiming at balloons to determine the rooms they will stay in; ranging from suites to deluxe rooms. They also got a glimpse of the Sarawakian cultural with a traditional Orang Ulu dance performance and live Sape during the welcome reception. Adventure caps were on the next day at the natural habitats of the orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, followed by a kayaking adventure in the rainforest with a stopover to enjoy a traditional Bidayuh lunch on the pebble beach.
CSR program with special children, Sarawak Convention Bureau.
The group also had a chance to spend some quality time with special children who assisted the delegates to create wonderful handmade beads and accessories together in a special CSR program with support of The Ranee. Eric Oosterom of American Express Meetings and Events said that the programme was a moving experience commenting “I wish we could spend more time with them”.
After a brief site inspection for business events facilities in the city centre, they ended the night with a scrumptious seafood dinner at the Topspot Food Court while enjoying Kuching’s skyline. To top it off, they were given an unconventional send-off to the airport by the big bikers of the Rolling Thunders, soaking up the sun before leaving Sarawak.
It is vital to highlight that a second tier destination like Sarawak has the ultimate adventure with business appeal, according to SCB Managing Director, Mike Cannon. He adds, “Beyond the products and services, they got the chance to experience first-hand what the destination is about and engage with the Sarawak brand.”
“Big thanks to MYCEB for the support and collaboration that helps with growth in business events in the country, especially in Sarawak,” he said. “On behalf of the bureau, we would like to mention special thanks to MyCEB for the opportunity; and to The Ranee and CPH Travel Agency for giving their best during this familiarization.”
The bureau received commendable and positive feedbacks from the delegates. Besides seeking to have had more time in order to explore more of the destination, Jean-Paul Bonomi of Squirrel Incentives and Travels shared, “Sarawak is a great candidate if one is looking for events with something different and culinary creativeness.”
Photo caption: Delegates ‘hunting’ for their rooms, Sarawak Convention Bureau.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
