Travel matters - TTG Asia
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
TTG associations
16 20
DESTINATIONS
GUIDE TO Hong Kong
Destination and Thailand
support
Travel
matters
Elected into the presidency of
the Federation of ASEAN Travel
Associations when the future of
travel and tourism was bright,
Tan Kok Liang soon finds himself
tackling the world’s biggest travel
MCI (P) 004/05/2020
July 2020
freeze and one that has brought
his industry to its knees
IT&CMA and CTW Asia Pacific
Goes Virtual
16 to 20 November 2020
Register Your Interest Now
Participation Details Will Be
Released In August
www.itcma.com | www.corporatetravelworld.com/apac
Save The Dates For Our Physical Event In 2021: 28 to 30 September
Organised By Host Country and Strategic Partner Supported By Official Airline Official Venue
Partner Event Technology Sponsor Experience Partner Industry Partners
Endorsing and Supporting Associations
Official Media
Media Affiliates
Editorial
Karen Yue Group Editor
(karen.yue@ttgasia.com)
Thriving online
S Puvaneswary Editor, Malaysia/Brunei
(puvanes@ttgasia.com)
Mimi Hudoyo Editor, Indonesia
(idmfasia@cbn.net.id)
Rachel AJ Lee Assistant Editor,
TTGmice, TTGassociations
(rachel.lee@ttgasia.com)
Therese Tan
Assistant Editor, TTG Content Lab
(therese.tan@ttgasia.com)
Pamela Chow If there was ever a song written about the travel and mass gathering bans. In the lead
Reporter (pamela.chow@ttgasia.com) people that were forced to master the ways up to our first TTG Conversations online
Cheryl Ong, Angela Teo Sub Editors
(cheryl.ong@ttgasia.com) of digital events during this pandemic, I panel, I was afraid, I was petrified. Online
(angela.teo@ttgasia.com) think it would start off like this: At first I events were new territory for me and my
Adelaine Ng Australia
(adelaineng.abc@gmail.com) was afraid, I was petrified. colleagues at the TTG Events business unit
Marissa Carruthers At the early onset of the pandemic, few who provided the technical support.
Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam
(maris.carruthers@gmail.com) of us would have imagined how disrup- Truly, the first step is always the hardest.
Caroline Boey China & Special Projects
(caroline.boey@ttgasia.com) tive it would be to our life and the way we Once we started, we learnt through our mis-
Prudence Lui Hong Kong/Greater China interacted. takes and got inspired by others. Now, we
(prului@yahoo.com)
Rohit Kaul India (rohitkaul23@gmail.com)
Whereas we once thought we had a cannot deny how useful online events have
Tiara Maharani, Kurniawan Ulung Indonesia choice of waiting out the outbreak and been in our business strategy. It allowed us
(tiaraul13@gmail.com)
(alezkurniawan@gmail.com) resulting travel restrictions, and that maybe to maintain our presence, expand our reach,
Kathryn Wortley Japan upcoming meetings would still be able to deepen our engagement with industry peers
(kathrynwortley@gmail.com)
Rosa Ocampo The Philippines take place as planned – perhaps with only a and partners despite not being able to be
(rosa.ocampo@gmail.com) slight delay – we now know how naive we with them physically, and – this is impor-
Feizal Samath Sri Lanka/Maldives
(feizalsam@gmail.com) were. tant – expand our personal capabilities.
Redmond Sia, Goh Meng Yong In February, there was still some hesita- At the time of writing this, TTG Events
Creative Designers
Lina Tan Editorial Assistant tion about moving physical events online. has just concluded its first Virtual IT&CM
How do we even get started? How much China and CTW China – 2.5 days of knowl-
Sales & Marketing would it cost? So many unknowns, so much edge conferences, destination and product
Pierre Quek
Publisher and Head Integrated Solutions could go wrong. showcases, and business meetings built for
(pierre.quek@ttgasia.com)
Chimmy Tsui But once there was no longer a choice – Chinese buyers looking to take their meet-
Publisher and Head Integrated Solutions because AGMs must take place, members ings and business travel around the world.
(China) (chimmy.tsui@ttgasia.com)
Jonathan Yap Senior Business Manager still expect to be engaged, advocacy works The team will go on to do a virtual Asia-
(jonathan.yap@ttgasia.com)
must continue, etc – the first digital step has Pacific edition later this year.
Shirley Tan Senior Business Manager
(shirley.tan@ttgasia.com) to be taken. For those that have taken the first digital
Seth Leow Business Manager Here at TTG Asia Media, while we aren’t step like we did, congratulations! We can
(seth.leow@ttgasia.com)
Cheryl Tan Corporate Marketing Manager an association, we faced the same uncer- get used to this familiar ground and make
(cheryl.tan@ttgasia.com)
Jade Ye Marketing Executive
tainty when we decided we must venture the most of it until travel and face-to-face
(jade.ye@ttgasia.com) online to keep engaging our community as meetings are possible again.
Delia Ng Digital Marketing Strategist
(delia.ng@ttgasia.com)
face-to-face trade events dissolved against Now, how does the song end?
Cheryl Lim
Advertisement Administration Manager
(cheryl.lim@ttgasia.com)
Carol Cheng
Manager Administration & Marketing
(Hong Kong, carol.cheng@ttgasia.com)
Publishing services
Jonathan Wan
Head, Operational Support Services
Kun Swee Qi Publishing Services Executive
Nur Hazirah Web Executive
Katherine Leong Circulation Executive
TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd
Darren Ng Managing Director
Offices
Singapore
TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd,
1 Science Park Road, #04-07 The Capricorn,
Singapore Science Park II, Singapore 117528
Tel: +65 6395 7575, fax: +65 6536 0896,
email: traveltradesales@ttgasia.com
Hong Kong
TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd, 8/F, E168,
166-168 Des Voeux Road Central,
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2237 7288, fax: +852 2237 7227
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may
be reproduced in whole or in part without written
permission of the publisher.
MCI (P) 004/05/2020 Karen Yue
Printed by Times Printers Pte Ltd
16 Tuas Avenue 5, Singapore 639340 Group Editor
PROFILE
13
Travel matters
Elected into the presidency of the Federation of
ASEAN Travel Associations when the future of
travel and tourism was bright, Tan soon finds
himself tackling the world’s biggest travel freeze
and one that has brought his industry to its
knees. By S Puvaneswary
GUIDE TO
16
Destination support
Convention bureaus often dish out a range of
assistance and subsidies to make it easier for
associations to convene in their destination.
TTGassociations reporters sniff out what’s
available now
DESTINATIONS
20 22
Hong Kong // Rising on home grounds Thailand // Building up for recovery
HKTB has thrown its support behind grooming International face-to-face association meetings
local association activities, believing that they will take time to return, but the Thai CVB has
will revive the city’s meetings scene, initiated a number of programmes now that will
writes Prudence Lui establish a strong foundation for safe and fruitful
conventions in the future. By Anne Somanas
DEPARTMENTS
3 To our readers 6 News 10 Talking point 24 Case studies
4 Contents 8 On the shelves 19 How to
WHO updates its guidelines
for mass gatherings
News
hkeita/shutterstock
associated with the event, to assess the
likelihood that the event may contribute
to the spread of the virus and that the
health services capacity may be exceeded
by such spread.
And third, the ability to implement ac-
tions that can reduce the risks associated
with the event in the planning, opera-
tional and post-event phases.
Recommended actions for each of
these steps are fleshed out the document,
which is accessible online for free.
In addition, WHO has developed tools
that assign a numerical score to each
risk factor and control measure, thus
The World Health Organization (WHO) As such, it urges authorities to “assess allowing for the calculation of a resulting
has revised its guidance document, Key the importance and necessity of an event overall risk score, which corresponds to
planning recommendations for mass and consider the option that it may take a defined risk category and to a recom-
gatherings in the context of Covid-19, on place, provided all associated public mendation for the event.
May 29, to reflect recent new knowledge health risks are adequately addressed However, WHO emphasised in the
on the pandemic. and mitigated”. guidance document that it does not have
In the guidance document, WHO A three-step risk assessment exercise the mandate to enforce any restriction,
acknowledged both the risk of transmis- for mass gatherings is recommended. modification, postponement or cancella-
sion posed by mass gatherings as well First, the host country’s existing regu- tion of a mass event, or to authorise that
as the extensive political, cultural, social lations on public health and social meas- the event may proceed. It recognises that
and economic benefits such events could ures to control the spread of the virus. it can only play an advisory role in the
bring to people and countries. Second, evaluation of risk factors safe conduct of events.
Covid-19 safety protocol published { Bureau brief }
for exhibition logistics workers Adelaide leads meeting recovery
Team Adelaide, convened by the Adelaide
The International Exhibition Logistics Convention Bureau, has developed a Covid-19
Pakorn Ch/shutterstock
Association (IELA) has released a step- economic recovery end-to-end marketing
campaign. The SA FE campaign markets an
by-step practical guide and safety recom-
Adelaide South Australia promise of exem-
mendations for the exhibition logistics plary health and safety standards and proce-
industry during the current pandemic. dures as freedoms return. The campaign also
Entitled IELA On-Site Covid-19 Proto- promises that the sector and its stakeholders
col, the guide recommends the measures will do everything in their power to ensure
and behaviour to adopt in an on-site that meeting delegates will be in the safest
work situation specific to the exhibition possible environment, and take care of them
logistics environment, as economies from arrival to departure.
restart around the world.
Workers setting up exhibition sites need health and Malaysia green lights small events
This protocol covers a wide spectrum
safety guidance during pandemic The Malaysian government has approved the
of daily working functions and results organisation of meetings, workshops and con-
from the work put in by IELA’s Standards sure that the exhibits and stand material ventions, capped at 250 people, starting from
& Customs Working Group (S&C WG). arrive safely and punctually at show sites July 1, 2020. These business activities must
Keeping in mind the safety of logistics and booths. It is therefore imperative that be carried out in Malaysia’s green zones, and
teams and all those present on show working teams follow these guidelines to with strict adherence to standard operating
6 • TTGassociations July 2020
sites, this document highlights vari- ensure the success and safety of events. procedures. The Ministry of Health Malaysia
ous aspects to be addressed from basic David Palomo, chairman of the IELA defines green zones as districts with no active
hygiene matters to more complicated S&C WG, said in a statement that the Covid-19 cases. Aside from a capacity cap, the
delivery situations, where close collabo- venue also has to be large enough to allow
guide will help the industry to face the
social distancing measures.
ration and interaction is unavoidable pandemic now, “as well as be forewarned
among on-site workers, but where social and informed of future difficult situations Western Australian lifts capacity limits
distancing now has to be ranked as the at all times”. The Western Australian State Government
top priority. The IELA Covid-19 Protocol is avail- has removed all venue capacity limits since
By applying this protocol, IELA Mem- able online in the IELA Member Zone July 18, as the state moves further down
bers will be positioned ready, even before and on the Organiser & Exhibitor Portals its Covid-19 recovery roadmap and towards
the actual opening of events, making on www.iela.org. restarting the business events industry.
Business travel association Paris and the
US take top
News
accused of bad governance
spots in ICCA’s
2019 rankings
By Caroline Boey annual conventions in the past were
Asian corporate travel managers and “a useful platform for Asian hospitality
former members of the Global Business companies trying to reach US buyers and
Travel Association (GBTA) – and its previ- they could get up to 100 RFPs”. The French capital has, for the sec-
ous iteration National Business Travel As- On the allegations, former GBTA board ond year in a row, led ICCA’s recently
sociation (NBTA) – indicate that stronger member Paul Tilstone, commented: “The published 2019 city rankings, based on
corporate governance is needed to get the challenge here is that the issue goes the number of meetings held last year,
association back on track. beyond the communications we have while the US has topped the country
This and more were brought to light witnessed in the press, so any response charts.
during the recent exposé on GBTA’s hos- from the board solely with regards to Paris hosted 237 meetings in 2019,
tile working environment and the man- the CEO is unlikely to satisfy the deeper while second and third runner-ups
agement style of CEO Scott Solombrino. challenges it faces with industry senti- Lisbon and Berlin welcomed 190 and
A whistleblower’s email, signed by “cur- ment.” 176 respectively.
rent & former GBTA Staff” and sent to Asian presence in the top 20 city
Business Travel News in early June, rankings is provided by Singapore at
had pointed to a number of ongo- seventh place; Tokyo in 10th spot; Bang-
ing and specific incidents some kok in 13th; Seoul in 15th; and Taipei in
Iconic Bestiary/shutterstock
described as racist, divisive, and 19th.
derogatory comments Sydney barely makes it onto the city
aimed at female staff. rankings, holding 20th spot, with 93
The whistleblower also meetings.
accused Solombrino On the country charts, France, Spain
of enjoying luxurious and the UK occupy the top five posi-
hotel stays and ex- tions, with the US leading the line-up.
pensive meals, while Asian presence comes in the form of
denying primary China in seventh place; Japan in eighth
expense reimbursements to GBTA staff. Tilstone, who is the managing partner place; and South Korea in 13th spot.
A buyer who received his corporate of UK-based travel and meetings manage- However, when destination perfor-
travel expert certification from NBTA ment company, Festive Road, added: mance is assessed by the estimated
commented that board members’ meeting “The CEO allegations require strong total number of participants, a different
only once or twice a year would not be corrective measures but additionally the set of rankings emerges.
scrutinising the association’s operations. whole GBTA construct needs change. A Barcelona and the US lead the city
“As a not-for-profit organisation with not-for-profit driven by profit will con- and country rankings by attendance
board members who are volunteers, tinue to make mistakes and be driven by respectively. Meetings in Barcelona last
corporate governance was probably not the wrong outcomes.” year saw 157,000 delegates, while those
as strong as it should be,” he said, add- “Naturally, every supplier needs to in the US recorded 357,000 delegates.
ing that budget cuts resulting in GBTA’s consider its own position based on its The study finds that June, Septem-
departure from Asia in late-2019 and its own values. From our point of view, be- ber and October are the most popular
US-centric research and White Papers of- fore the email, we were already uncom- months for association meetings. Medi-
fered Asian members less value. fortable with various GBTA positions so cal science (17 per cent), technology
Another corporate travel manager, Festive Road withdrew from the conven- (15 per cent) and science (13 per cent)
whose GBTA membership lapsed five tion back in February (pre-Covid-19) as are the three most popular international
years ago, observed: “As a not-for-profit soon as GBTA applied surcharges to ex- association meeting topics.
association, GBTA became commercial hibitors to pay for the opening reception. In 2019, the average total expenditure
and less relevant for what I wanted, “It wasn’t the cost of the surcharge, on all meetings in the ICCA Associa-
whereas ACTE (Association of Corporate but the principle. And it’s this overall tion Database was almost US$11 billion
Travel Executives) was more beneficial.” attitude that concerns a number of the – excluding spin-off investments and
The travel manager added that GBTA’s members,” Tilstone elaborated. economic development.
Busan secures marine waste conference for 2022
TTGassociations July 2020 • 7
Busan has won the bid to host the 7th gions are expected to gather at the Busan in the private sector, effective imple-
International Marine Waste Conference, Exhibition and Convention Center, tenta- mentation of laws-regulations-policies,
an international conference hosted by tively scheduled for September 2022. alongside 170 poster presentations.
the United Nations Environment Program Over a period of five days, industry This is the first time that the con-
dealing with the global issue of interna- experts will discuss the current situation, ference, held irregularly under the
tional marine waste policy. problems and effective countermeasures auspices of the National Oceanic and
Over 700 international experts – ma- for marine waste worldwide. Presenta- Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
rine waste researchers, policy officials tions will cover topics that include the is being held in a country other than
and NGOs – from 50 countries and re- prevention of microplastics, collaboration the US.
{ Advertorial }
On the shelves
NE MINUTE with IT&CM Events
ICC Sydney readies for
hybrid event future
International Convention Centre Sydney 40,000 students, and a raft of community
(ICC Sydney) has created a new hybrid and government events.
on-site and virtual event solution that will ICC Sydney will make the new Hybrid
allow clients to host more than 300 people Event Solutions an ongoing suite of prod-
IT&CMA and at the venue in accordance with strict social
distancing measures, while enabling live
ucts available to its clients, reflecting the
seamless merging of technology with live
CTW Asia Pacific
streaming to an unlimited number of remote experiences needed for the current and post-
attendees. pandemic era.
Goes Virtual
Following the outbreak of Covid-19, ICC To deliver the dual model, ICC Sydney has
Sydney’s successful virtual events service applied cutting edge technology into its new
has seen the venue host multiple world- hybrid spaces, including projection screens,
16 to 20
class events. These included the Meetings entertainment lighting and PA systems. This
and Events Australia 2019 National Awards, set up will allow both attendees in the rooms
November 2020
Stand Tall 2020 – Australia’s largest youth and guests located remotely to have the
event which was streamed to more than same high quality event experience.
Register Pico+ and Migu partner up to
Your Interest
Now advance virtual events capability
Pico Far East Holdings has formed a strate-
Participation Details Will gic alliance with China Mobile’s Migu Video
Be Released In August Technology in response to the rapid growth
in the online virtual events and exhibitions
trend.
The alliance aims to create online virtual
events and exhibitions and other innovative
Save The Dates For Our platforms, by joining Pico+’s expertise in
exhibitions and event marketing, with Migu’s
Physical Event In 2021 focus in content production and immersive
experiences.
28 to 30 September The partnership will cover three spec-
Cloud-based forums as well as virtual exhibitions and
trums: Online and virtual exhibitions and
trading are now possible
platforms; VR content channels on mobile
phones, TVs and VR headsets; and VR e- major channels – mobile phones, TVs and VR
commerce and online new economy. headsets. The alliance will create VR content
Online and virtual exhibitions and plat- channels and unique panoramic content for
8 • TTGassociations July 2020
forms will benefit association summits with users, incorporating and operating features
an exhibition component, as they faciltate such as cloud exhibitions, cloud forums and
new formats such as cloud-based forums, more.
exhibitions, signing ceremonies and trading. Finally, the alliance will combine the
The alliance will also create an “online VR expertise of Pico+ in 360-degree 3D VR
virtual exhibition centre” for China Mobile’s display technology with Migu’s resources in e-
“Cloud VR” service, creating a social feast in commerce merchandising. This will ultimately
the VR world. help convert “footfall” from cloud exhibitions
Asia-Pacific’s Only Doublebill Event As well, Pico+’s 360-degree virtual into online consumption. The resulting virtual
in MICE and Corporate Travel exhibitions and virtual conference experi- commerce, or V-commerce, platforms tap the
www.itcma.com | www.corporateworld.com/apac ences will be powered by Migu’s capabilities potential of new economy created by VR and
in video content distribution across three online services.
Pacifico Yokohama New Alma Resort
brings convention
On the shelves
North opens for
business capability to Vietnam’s
Cam Ranh
New luxury resort, Alma, has opened on
Vietnam’s Cam Ranh, a peninsula on Viet-
nam’s south-central coast, bringing with it A superior room at Far East Village Hotel Ariake
a host of facilities that enable conferences
and social functions to be conducted under
one roof. Far East’s Village
Available for event planners’ pickings are
the 400-seater outdoor Alma Amphitheatre;
brand arrives in Japan
the Alma Convention Centre with its 300-pax
ballroom and selection of meeting rooms; Singapore-based Far East Hospitality has
and a 70-seat cinema that can be bought out taken over the management of the Village
for keynote or award presentations. Hotel Ariake Tokyo and rebranded it as the Far
Accommodation options include suites East Village Hotel Ariake.
Pacifico Yokohama convention complex in the – housed inland – and three-bedroom The 306-key hotel is located in Koto City,
port city of Yokohama, Japan has opened the pavilions complete with a private swimming the eastern part of Tokyo, and is currently
doors to its new wing, the Pacifico Yokohama pool. There are 196 pavilions and 384 suites targeting the domestic business community
North. altogether on property. that utilises Tokyo Big Sight – the largest
The highlight of Pacifico Yokohama North For recreation, event delegates can seek convention and exhibition centre in Japan. A
is its 6,337m2 multipurpose hall, said to be out the gym and yoga room; art gallery; free shuttle to Tokyo Big Sight is provided as
the one of the largest in the country. It can 18-hole putting green; Le Spa with 13 treat- part hotel amenities.
host 5,948 people in theatre-style or 3,600 ment rooms; 12 pools cascading down to the Guestrooms are fitted with the latest tech-
pax in classroom-style. beach which include a 75-metre beachfront nology such as AI speakers that allow guests
Within Pacifico Yokohama North are also pool for laps and an adults-only pool; a to make multilingual voice commands. Facili-
42 meeting rooms, which can house between 6,000m2 Splash Water Park; a Science Mu- ties on-site include a coin-operated launder-
56 and 240 pax in a theatre-seating plan. seum; an outdoor archery range; and more. ette, vending facilities, and a restaurant.
The new North wing is directly connected There are 14 F&B options ranging from an To minimise contact, Far East Village Hotel
to the complex’s multipurpose Annex Hall, Italian restaurant to a local seafood option; Ariake offers self-serve kiosks for check-in
as well as the column-free Exhibition Hall, and includes several bars. and check- out, and contactless payment
through an outdoor pedestrian deck. Alma’s blend of business and leisure solutions.
Catering can be arranged with the 594-key facilities provides a warm welcome to confer- Village Hotel Ariake Tokyo was the first
InterContinental Yokohama Grand – conveni- ence attendees hoping to travel with their hotel under the Village brand to expand its
ently housed within the complex – and the family for an extended leisure retreat. presence outside of Singapore.
nearby, 603-key Yokohama Royal Park Hotel.
Both hotels have the resources and expertise
to host banquets for a sizeable number of
guests, and are able to cater to unique dietary Meliá debuts in Thailand
requirements, including religious restrictions.
Spanish hotel group Meliá Hotels International
Alternatively, the complex offers many res-
has opened Meliá Koh Samui, its first hotel in
taurants that serve a wide range of cuisines,
Thailand.
including Italian, modern Chinese, as well as
The beachfront resort offers 159 rooms and
Yokohama-style French fare.
41 suites, suitable for associations looking to
A short drive from Pacifico Yokohama will
connect with members away from the city.
also bring delegates to the city’s celebrated at-
There are seven multifunction rooms, a
tractions, including the historic Yokohama Red
ballroom for up to 200 guests, and beachfront
Brick Warehouses, from which delegates can
spaces which have hosted gala dinners for
enjoy the scenery of Yokohama Bay, as well as
500 guests.
the Cup Noodles Museum.
To unwind, guests can retreat to two
outdoor pools, including one that loops like a
river through the resort’s gardens.
The hotel also houses the Gallery, a non-
Park Hyatt adds meeting options in Suzhou profit social enterprise of art and design gift
shops under the aegis of the Asset World
Foundation for Charity. Profits support further
The Park Hyatt brand has opened an outpost artistic endeavours, as well as preserve and
in Suzhou, eastern China, located near Jinji promote local culture and areas in need.
Lake in the heart of Suzhou Industrial Park.
The hotel features five function venues
spread over 2,400m2, with options suitable
TTGassociations July 2020 • 9
for intimate gatherings of 12 guests as well as
larger events with up to 900 attendees.
With 178 rooms and suites, ranging from
50m2 to 173m2 in size, the hotel can support
residential meeting groups.
Facilities on-site include a pool, fitness
centre, spa with six treatment rooms, as well
as three F&B venues – Xizhou Hall serving
locally-inspired fare; the Living Room for light
refreshments and tipples; and Apartment 208
which specialises in prime steak and sustain-
able seafood.
Online lifeline
because the organisational
cost is different, but that is
not to say that a webinar will
Talking point
not make money. I believe
associations now have the
capacity to expand its reach
beyond their members. There
The online space has become the favourite meeting room is also an opportunity for a
for many associations that need to maintain engagement recurring revenue in webi-
nars as they can be recorded,
with members and the public, but risks of webinar fatigue repurposed and re-marketed
need to be addressed, writes Karen Yue in the future as an on-demand
resource,” said Peralta.
He shared that PCAAE’s
A
webinar offering strategy
ssociations that However, for some associa- workshops and conferences, is two-fold – information-
once had an array tion chiefs, this predicament newsletters and emails. sharing webinars are free to
of face-to-face has turned out to be a bless- Today, SPS conducts one the public to raise visibility
engagement tools at ing in disguise, as moving or two member-facing special and attract potential sponsors
their disposal – conferences, communications and engage- interest online events every while unique content and
meetings, training workshops, ment online has resulted in month to maintain engage- certificate-granting webinars
social functions, community richer exchanges with an ment and exchange, and has attract a registration fee.
volunteerism programmes – expanded audience. started a topical series for
prior to the Covid-19 pan- Prior to the pandemic, the public on social media Something old,
demic, have found themselves the Singapore Psychological platforms to address psycho- something new
restricted to just online for- Society (SPS) had never ven- logical issues arising from the Long before online and hybrid
mats due to travel restrictions tured online with its member pandemic and lockdown. events were necessitated by
and event capacity limitations activities. It followed the tra- Going online has also al- travel and event restrictions,
in many destinations. ditional route of face-to-face lowed SPS to avoid having to the Professional Convention
restrict its events only to days Management Association
when rental rates were lower (PCMA) created Conven-
am Lay (JM); Instagram.com/oddlysequential.jm
and space was available, said ing Leaders Live, an annual
president Cherie Chan. hybrid event that brought
Another benefit of the in strong online and offline
digital event shift, according attendance from around the
to Chan, is her team’s new world. It also maintained a
confidence in running online digital strategy at a time when
events. few other associations saw
Carlin Lee, SPS vice-presi- the need for one.
dent, shared that the team is Since the onset of the pan-
now deliberating whether or demic, PCMA has intensified
not to convert the society’s its online activities. Engage-
annual research conference ment with the board and
into an online edition, with members are more frequent
multiple breakout rooms to through online means such as
facilitate in-depth topical e-direct mails, Zoom meetings
discussions. and focus groups, webi-
International Congress nars and a bi-weekly Covid
and Convention Associa- Recovery Dashboard survey.
tion’s (ICCA) regular Busi- PCMA reports a 64 per cent
ness Exchange, which once year-on-year spike in website
brought in small numbers of traffic through June, with over
participants, has seen “huge 300,000 views of its Covid-19
interest” since going online, content alone.
revealed Noor Ahmad Hamid, The Covid Recovery
regional director Asia Pacific. Dashboard survey has proven
The online shift also brings to be “incredibly popular”,
additional revenue-generating said Karen Bolinger, PCMA’s
potential, opined Octavio Per- managing director for Asia-
10 • TTGassociations July 2020
alta, secretary general of the Pacific, attracting about 1,000
Association of Development responses each time.
Financing Institutions in Asia Online trainings and meet-
and the Pacific, and the presi- ings are not new to ICCA
dent & CEO of the Philippine too, as these virtual options
Council for the Advancement are held to encourage wider
of Association Executives attendance by its global mem-
(PCAAE). bership, revealed Noor. But
“The pricing model for a he told TTGassociations that
webinar will not be compara- the organisation has never
ble to a face-to-face seminar “gone to the extent of movingall events to virtual or hybrid
(platforms)”.
Get smarter online
Talking point
“With this pandemic and
since travel is not possible, all Mathilde Gabriel, account manager of Chab Lab, the digital events and marketing division of Chab
activities have gone virtual. Events, lays out some tips on keeping web events hot and interesting
For example, our annual Asso-
ciation Meetings Programme Invest in building up a storyline. Quality content is a result of time and intelligent effort spent. Focus
(June 29-30) was completely on identifying your event’s narrative and make it brisk and gripping; coordinate a rehearsal with the
virtual,” Noor remarked, but speakers or even invest in training for them.
added that as destinations
begin to reopen for domestic Cap it at 60 minutes. With distractions all around, participants tend to lose interest if a webinar lasts
travel, his organisation has much longer.
been able to get some hybrid
Make time for inclusivity and engagement. Interaction during online meetings has gone from
events off the ground. nice-to-have to absolutely-must-have. This ranges from a simple icebreaker to an occasional pulse-
“For example, the ICCA checking poll to an open Q&A at the end.
Congress in Kaohsiung this
November and ICCA Asia Don’t skip the entertainment. An impressive opening and closing entertainment is as important as
Pacific Summit in Yokohama the core content delivered in a web conference. Consider visually-strong ideas such as sand art, live
this December will be hybrid art painting, an impactful video as the opening or motivational one for the closing, or mentalists or
events,” he added. online magicians.
Battling fatigue
ICCA now hosts an average of
four to five virtual meetings to stay connected with our intimate gatherings of audi- events and strategic marketing,
and webinars each month, ex- boards and members” and ence segments to add specific believes there is still a future
cluding training programmes. that their benefits will ensure value and to ensure attention for traditional media, such as
The schedule was a lot busier they became “part of a grow- is captured and maintained. printed or electronic newslet-
in the beginning of the global ing portfolio of standard Some of the new online ters and journals.
travel freeze, with “quite a service offerings to members, content are Chat & Learns, Gabriel said that these
number of webinars” con- even after this pandemic”, where an expert presents a media help to maintain contact
ducted for the various regions Peralta said webinar fatigue specific topic with more Q&A with members in between
and sectors of its member- would only set in when the time; and a one-day digital digital events and are better for
ship. attendee experience and con- Brain Date event that allows targeting a wider audience.
“However, as we are com- tent are “mediocre”. audiences to connect in small Lee too, believes that
ing into webinar fatigue, we Peralta pointed out that groups or one-on-one about a traditional media will not be
decided to only organise one associations looking to engage specific topic. phased out post-lockdown, “as
if it is necessary. Online train- with their audience online are “It is these member-only our members enjoy reading”
ings are an exception – they not limited to just webinars. forum sessions that have been about the latest findings and
have gone up dramatically “There are at least five dif- immensely popular and have issues relating to the field of
because most members are ferent online event concepts given people the chance to psychology.
investing this (downtime) – webinars; webinar plus communicate and stay en- Late-2019, SPS revived the
into training and learning,” interaction; content and con- gaged during this time,” said Singapore Psychologist, a quar-
explained Noor. nect, which are networking Bolinger. terly flagship magazine geared
Declaring that “webinars opportunities; online summit SPS too, has learnt to keep towards education and public
are one of the best options or conference; and virtual its online content “bite-size”, awareness around specific
and means for associations exhibition,” he explained. each no more than an hour issues, such as depression and
Peralta added that provid- long, and to make them as anxiety. The publication is
ing “exceptional experiences conversational as possible so expected to continue to be a
through differentiation and that attendees would remain valuable resource for its mem-
diversity of these online offer- engaged and awake. bers and the public.
ings at varied levels or types What needs to change with
of events” is key to main- Fitting in traditional media these passive media is the
taining member interest and Despite the heavier reliance form of content they convey.
participation. on online media for as- Gabriel suggested that a short
Over at PCMA, online sociation communications, video clip could be embedded
engagement is kept high with Mathilde Gabriel, account in an e-newsletter to help it
constant content evolution. It manager of Chab Lab, an stand out from other emails in
has introduced shorter, more agency specialising in digital the inbox.
TTGassociations July 2020 • 11
“While there might be a growing sense of webinar fatigue, (online
events are) still the most accessible and practical solution for
professionals. The need to connect, adapt, grow, learn and perform
our jobs hasn’t stopped, so these platforms are key to keep people
doing what we do best – helping people to connect.”
Karen Bolinger
Managing director, Asia Pacific, PCMACollaboration leads the way
Talking point
Associations representing the beleagured business events industry are coming
together to emerge sooner on the other side of the crisis, writes Lauren Arena
A
s countries cautious- resilient and emerge stronger and CEO of the Philippine immigration rules, the open-
ly begin to reopen in a post-Covid world,” he Council of Associations ing of the economy, as well
borders, business added. and Association Executives as incentive support for the
events associations SACEOS also spearheaded (PCAAE), said collaborative MICE industry, differ from
in South-east Asia have come the Asia Community Building efforts similar to the recent country to country,” Peralta
together to spur the recovery Pledge, which was signed in agreement between the said.
of the region’s meetings and 2019 by the Thailand Incen- Business Events Council of “In the Philippines, for
events sector. tive and Convention Asso- Australia (BECA) and Conven- example, business and asso-
Sharing protocols for the ciation (TICA), Thai Exhibi- tions and Incentives New ciation events will be largely
safe reopening of events, tion Association, Malaysian Zealand (CINZ) will prove organised and held locally to
exchanging advocacy tactics, Association of Convention difficult as the pandemic has rebuild confidence, before at-
and building resilience in and Exhibition Organisers and affected South-east Asian tracting international events.”
South-east Asia is the focus of Suppliers (MACEOS), Philip- countries in different ways. Malaysia is also taking an
ongoing talks between trade pine Association of Conven- In early-June, BECA and ‘inside-out’ approach. The
associations in Singapore, tion/Exhibition Organizers CINZ agreed to work together Business Events Council of
Thailand, Malaysia, the Phil- and Suppliers (PACEOS), and to facilitate maximum eco- Malaysia is working with
ippines, and Indonesia. Indonesian Exhibition Compa- nomic, trade and investment government and industry to
“A rising tide lifts all nies Association. benefits for both countries, in support a Let’s Meet Locally
boats,” said Aloysius Arlando, TICA president, Sumate order to emerge strongly from campaign, which will include
president of the Singapore Sudasna, said collaboration the crisis. a second phase, Let’s Meet
Association of Convention between trade association “Factors like government Tomorrow, to help revive
& Exhibition Organisers & leaders has been fruitful, with policies on health protocols, regional market demand.
Suppliers (SACEOS), which is talks of a regional travel bub- MACEOS, meanwhile, is
leading the charge to strength- ble underway. collaborating with local asso-
en regional cooperation. “We have pledged to main- ciations to standardise event
“A strong industry frater- tain communication through protocols and contact tracing
nity exists within South-east the crisis and have indeed across Malaysia, while shar-
Asia, but the domestic situ- learnt from each other,” Su- ing best practice with regional
ation in each market differs mate said. neighbours.
considerably.” “I believe South-east Asia “Each and every respective
12 • TTGassociations July 2020
Arlando added that SA- can definitely work together country needs to address con-
CEOS is working with local to emphasise our connectivity trol measures and public con-
government agencies to define and complementary attrib- fidence first, and thereafter,
a safe operating environment, utes, and to be recognised as cross-border initiatives can be
and guide Singapore’s indus- a safe and hospitable region taken,” remarked MACEOS
try towards a safe transition. for (business events).” president Vincent Lim.
“We are sharing our plans Sharing knowledge is the “Overall, strong govern-
with our South-east Asian first step towards regional ment support is needed to
neighbours, including learn- recovery, but hurdles to effec- revive the industry beyond
ings from our recent advocacy tive cooperation remain. (the establishment of) a travel
efforts, to ensure we remain Octavio B Peralta, founder Arlando: sharing plans for greater good bubble,” he added.Profile
Tan Kok Liang
Travel
matters
Elected into the presidency of
the Federation of ASEAN Travel
Associations when the future of
travel and tourism was bright, Tan
soon finds himself tackling the
world’s biggest travel freeze and one
that has brought his industry to its
knees. By S Puvaneswary
Would you have expected a travel and tourism industry
crisis of this scale?
We were all optimistic that this year and 2021 were going to be
great for travel and tourism within the South-east Asian region.
At the ASEAN Tourism Forum in January this year, FATA
(Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations) members were
making plans for ITB Berlin in March. This is one of the most
important travel tradeshows in Europe, as it provides a big op-
portunity for members to further develop the European travel
market in their respective countries.
As I was packing my bags and getting ready for the long
flight to Berlin, I received a message from the organiser that
the show had been abruptly cancelled due to the rapid spread
of the coronavirus. In the weeks ahead, countries around the
TTGassociations July 2020 • 13
world started locking down their borders.
I have been involved in the travel industry since 1990 and
I have experienced many crises that affected travel demand,
such as the Gulf War, the global financial crisis, SARS, global
recession and natural disasters. But none of those were of this
magnitude and had such dire impact on the travel sector where
the entire chain – aviation, hotels, cruises, theme parks and
travel agencies – has been impacted all over the world.
The sector will take at least a year to recover, and boosting
travel confidence is among the greatest challenges FATA faces
this year.Do you see this crisis as a real test of that FATA members have now? Are FATA members turning to
the value of FATA as a professional With zero revenue as early as March and technology to improve efficiency?
association? ongoing weak travel demand, members The push towards digital had already
Profile
Yes, I do. FATA is the umbrella body for are worried if they will be able to sustain begun before the pandemic.
national travel associations in South-east their operations until the industry fully For instance, there was significant use
Asia. The combined number of travel recovers, and this I estimate, will occur of digital marketing and promotions.
agents under FATA is over 7,700. sometime in 1Q2021. Face-to-face meetings at travel shows
As an association, this crisis has made Being able to sustain and pay staff where buyers met with sellers were
us harmonise our strategies in dealing salaries and office rentals as well as ser- basically publicity exercises to firm up
with challenges and working in solidar- vice business loans are major concerns business contracts.
ity with our members. Let me give you of our members. Liquidity is another However, travel restrictions during the
an example. There were a lot of airline major concern as financial institutions pandemic have led to an acceleration in
cancellations during the pandemic. The see the tourism industry as high risk and the adoption of technology. Communicat-
airlines, in general, issued travel vouch- are reluctant to give out loans. ing and networking digitally via video
ers instead of cash refunds. Customers Tourism companies also face angry platforms has become an accepted norm,
who purchased airline seats from (travel customers and litigation as customers whereas in the past, it was an alternative
agents) were unhappy because they demand refunds for tour packages but means.
wanted their money back, rather than the money is held by airlines, hotels and I anticipate the use of technology will
a voucher which has little or no value overseas operators. become more prevalent in the way busi-
should (the airline) be liquidated. nesses and networking are conducted
Thus, we approached the International moving forward.
Air Transport Association in April to
compel the airlines to process refunds in How will travel and tourism change as
compliance with the rule of law. There a result of the pandemic?
has been no positive response but we The most pressing issue now is to work
will continue to pursue the matter. on standardising health and safety pro-
While we remain sympathetic to the tocols so that it is in line with the World
multiple challenges faced by airlines Health Organization’s standards.
during this crisis, the position taken by Members are also advised to minimise
airlines could stifle forward bookings and contact points, and FATA has encour-
consumer confidence, (affect) travel pat- aged them to go digital and issue QR
terns, and spur unnecessary lawsuits. codes and e-vouchers to their customers
Other issues that FATA worked on instead. Members are also devising tour
include lobbying governments within itineraries that emphasise social distanc-
South-east Asia to put pressure on banks ing, such as visiting less-crowded areas.
and leasing companies to provide loan
moratoriums to travel operators, and to FATA has cancelled its annual
come up with economic stimulus pack- convention this year due to the
ages and financial assistance that benefit pandemic. What opportunities will
the region’s travel industry. there be for members to raise issues
Our members, and FATA, have also
collectively urged the regional govern-
“I don’t want to be without the convention?
ments to start opening the borders first to a president for The FATA Convention was scheduled to
be held in Phnom Penh in July. Instead
help restart tourism. namesake and yet of holding a physical convention, we
have everyone held an online forum on June 19 with
Why South-east Asia first? else to do the job. the theme, Way forward for tourism in
South-east Asia has a population of over
622 million, thus the potential of intra-
That is just not my ASEAN.
This was broadcasted live through the
South-east-Asian tourism is comparable style.” Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel
with that of European, Chinese, Indians Agents’ (MATTA) Facebook page, with
or Americans travelling within their The new normal calls for our mem- panellists from South-east Asia’s national
borders. bers, who are already burdened finan- tourist organisations sharing recovery
Ensuring that the travel and tourism cially, to further invest in health and plans. FATA members also shared how
industry here is the first to recover would safety protocols and this may require intra-regional travel will change in the
mean instant activation of a wide-range office renovations, digitalisation of opera- new normal and what various travel
of related micro-economies. The impact tions, and purchase of personal protec- agent associations in South-east Asia
from the growth of tourism in South-east tive equipment. were doing to rebuild travel confidence.
Asia will create curiosity and branding Prolonging border closures will not
opportunities in international markets help to improve the dire situation of our Does FATA have plans to work with
14 • TTGassociations July 2020
that will in turn develop an interest to members; that will do more harm. Travel counterparts in other parts of the
visit the region. agents and tour operators who depend world, for example, the European
Travellers are also inclined to travel on foreign tourists or who handle out- Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’
closer to home as they are also con- bound markets have seen their business- Associations (ECTAA)?
cerned about future lockdowns (resulting es adversely affected. Some have stopped The various member associations that
from) new waves in the absence of a operating for good. make up FATA already work indepen-
vaccine. The pandemic has left millions If borders remain closed for much dently with various global partners. One
of travellers stranded all over the world, longer, I foresee many more businesses of our objectives now is to consolidate
and memories are still fresh for many. shutting down and the industry will be and leverage this global network towards
left with only globally-owned companies the benefit of South-east Asia.
What are the most common concerns and a few national players. For example, MATTA’s membershipand working relationship with ECTAA
has already opened up collaboration
Profile
opportunities with FATA. This bond
between regional associations will
strengthen the tourism industries on both
sides of the globe.
Let’s move on to you. You are a
chartered accountant by training.
What lured you into the travel
industry?
I love to travel and meet people. I am
more a people person than a numbers
man.
Having said that, my training as a
chartered accountant has been useful as I
keep a firm eye on the books.
I was involved in the travel industry
since 1990 as (my home town) Sabah is
a tourism destination. In 2005, business
affiliates urged me to set up an inbound
travel agency that could provide reliable
and trustworthy service. I felt then that
the timing was right to strike out on my
own, as the tourism industry in Sabah
was booming at the time. Firm devotion to the profession
I also saw that I could help the in-
dustry by providing direct employment Tan Kok Liang was elected FATA president in early January, during a meeting held at
opportunities to the locals. the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2020 in Brunei Darussalam. He is also the president of the
We took care of our customers by Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA).
placing safety and security as our priori- As MATTA president, Tan has instituted several key initiatives to further drive
inbound tourism to Malaysia. This includes setting up a Malaysia-based online booking
ties. Over the years, the business grew
engine to ensure members’ business interests are protected, and initiating aggressive
and I was able to expand, while never overseas promotions to China, India, Europe and South-east Asia.
forgetting our core values which in- Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Tan has been lobbying the Malaysian govern-
cluded fair pricing, practising responsible ment to reassess the situation for gradual easing of border restrictions to allow foreign
tourism, providing quick responses to tourists to enter the country, renewing his efforts when Malaysia entered the recovery
our partners and customers, and always phase of the Movement Control Order in June.
innovating our products in order to stay Tan is also the owner and director of Borneo Trails Tours & Travel, an inbound tour
ahead of the competition. operator based in Sabah that has been awarded several awards and accolades from
both Tourism Malaysia and Sabah Tourism. He also operates an eco lodge, Borneo
Nature Lodge, in Sabah.
There is a saying, the more you give,
In 2018, he received a Best Tourism Industry Leader award from the Tourism
the more you receive. In 2017, you Promotion Organisation, in recognition of his contribution to the development of the
became MATTA’s president. How has tourism industry in Asia-Pacific.
the association helped you grow as an
individual?
I was the chairman of MATTA Sabah
chapter for four years, and MATTA
inbound vice president for another four cation skills and be more responsible for from being active in an association.
years before being elected as MATTA my actions. For a business to be successful, it
president in 2017. In a way, MATTA has also helped me needs to be reputable and have a trust-
Association work is not for the weak to gain the necessary qualities I needed worthy business set up and management.
as we are consistently criticised by peers to take on this more demanding role as Also, with competition from members,
who happen to be business owners, and FATA president. who are always keeping a hawk’s eye on
in a sense, our competitors too. you, how will there be an opportunity to
MATTA does not have regulatory pow- MATTA has helped very much in your abuse one’s position?
ers but members expect us to perform personal growth.
“miracles” for their benefit. If we are not Yes, as well as growing my social net- You have a reputation with the media
driven by passion to help the indus- work. However, protecting the associa- for always been prompt with replies
try, office bearers will end up feeling tion’s interests always comes first. to pressing deadlines, no matter
dejected. There is no business or financial how busy you are. What is your
TTGassociations July 2020 • 15
Over the years, association work has benefit from being an office bearer. On secret, juggling between your many
helped me to become more open-mind- the contrary, if we are not careful, our responsibilities?
ed, to be quick to listen, slow to speak own businesses will be affected due to There is no secret, it is sheer hard
and most importantly, control my emo- over-involvement in association work. It work. I put in around 15 hours of work
tions. It has helped me build communi- is a myth that one will get more business daily, and I prioritise schedules that are
important and urgent. I have also made
personal sacrifices along the way. I don’t
want to be a president for namesake and
“Protecting the association’s interest yet have everyone else to do the job.
always comes first.” That is just not my style.Destination support
Guide to
Convention bureaus often dish out a range of assistance and subsidies
to make it easier for associations to convene in their destination.
TTGassociations reporters sniff out what’s available now
Rudy Balasko/shutterstock
Sydney is a popular meeting
Australia
destination in Australia
By Adelaine Ng
Tourism Australia’s main avenue of
support for international associations is
through its A$12 million (US$8.5 million)
Bid Fund Program (BFP).
Offered through Business Events Aus-
tralia, the programme provides financial
support at the critical bidding stage
where Australia is pitted against interna-
tional competitors for the right to host
the business event.
Eligibility requirements for the pro-
gramme were relaxed late last year so
that associations with a minimum of 400
international delegates can apply.
Matched funding levels from appli-
cants were also dropped from A$100,000
to A$50,000, and can be used to include
costs such as accommodation, venue hire
and transport.
The BFP does not subsidise admin-
istrative, logistics or marketing costs
for international bids, such as overseas
travel for client meetings or market-
ing materials. Applications must be for
event travel up to December 30, 2024 but
submissions need to be made by June
30, 2021.
New support is also offered to domes-
tic association events through a Business
Events Boost Program, which funds pro-
jects that have the potential to influence
local decision-makers or convert new
domestic business events.
Some state bureaus are also prepar-
ing to announce their own support
programmes to encourage the return of
association meetings.
Japan
16 • TTGassociations July 2020
By Kathryn Wortley
Prefectures and cities in Japan have
developed a varied list of association
support efforts.
In Osaka, the city’s Convention &
Tourism Bureau and city government
have halved the usage fee of Osaka Inter-
national Convention Center, the third-
largest exhibition space in the country
and the largest outside Tokyo, for eventsSerg Zastavkin/shutterstock
Guide to
From above: The prominent dome of Osaka-jo Hall, a
TRAVAL TAKE PHOTOS/shutterstock
multipurpose venue in the Japanese city; the serene
Bongeunsa Buddhist temple in Seoul makes a good
post-meeting social addition
held within this financial year (to take
place by March 31, 2021).
Associations can also book Osaka-Jo
Hall – a multipurpose hall near Osaka
Castle that can seat 16,000 pax – under
the same conditions.
These moves are designed to reduce
the financial burden on organisers who
now face the challenge of introducing
Covid-19-prevention measures at events,
according to Osaka’s mayor Ichiro Mat-
sui.
Over in Kagoshima, the Conven-
tion Visitors Bureau is teaming up with
Kagoshima City on a publicity campaign
this year to showcase the prefecture’s
capabilities for associations. A website
to showcase local F&B venues suited for
hosting associations is also planned.
Not to be outdone, Yokohama and To-
kyo are developing subvention measures
to attract associations within fiscal 2020.
TTGassociations July 2020 • 17
ber 31 this year, or have cancelled or The programme is supported by
South Korea postponed their meetings – scheduled to regional business events bureaus that
By Juyoung Lee happen before June 30, 2021– due to the pump in more discount packages.
pandemic. Meanwhile, meeting participants
The Korea Tourism Organization offers Organisers can access a variety of will benefit from perks that promise to
the Korea MICE Support Program for benefits, such as visa facilitation; cus- enhance the destination experience, such
associations that are looking to meet tomised support package based on the as souvenirs; fast-tracked immigration;
in the country. Events that qualify for group’s needs; a welcome ceremony at complimentary tourism and cultural ex-
support must have either considered or the airport; discounted or complimentary periences such as entry into Korean folk
confirmed South Korea as a meetings air tickets and accommodation; and dis- villages, K-pop themed parks, trekking,
destination between July 1 and Decem- counts and rebates on venue rentals. and dining in Michelin-star restaurants.You can also read
