Sarawak Surpasses Regional Competitors by Launching Nationwide Legacy-Focused Business Events Initiative Driving Economic Growth and Knowledge Exchange Across Malaysia

Business Events Sarawak BESarawak has unveiled a nationwide engagement campaign aimed at transforming Malaysia’s business events landscape into a long-term engine of economic and social development. Building on record achievements, the initiative emphasizes measurable outcomes, legacy creation, and alignment with national development priorities, ensuring that business events deliver value far beyond tourism and short-term visitor numbers.

The programme, presented as part of the Ramadan engagement series themed Satu Meja, Seribu Cerita, convenes stakeholders from across government, industry associations, academia, and the media in key locations including Kuching, Sibu, Miri, Bintulu, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang. By fostering collaboration, identifying new business opportunities, and strengthening pipelines for future events, BESarawak positions business events as a strategic catalyst for Malaysia’s economic growth and knowledge-driven development.

This nationwide initiative coincides with the final phase of Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, providing a timely opportunity to align the business events ecosystem with broader national priorities. By integrating events into the country’s long-term development framework, BESarawak ensures that gatherings are designed not merely as individual occurrences, but as platforms that drive sustained industry innovation, knowledge transfer, and socio-economic resilience.

Strategic Ecosystem Alignment
Central to the initiative is a strong focus on cohesive collaboration. BESarawak encourages all stakeholders—government entities, professional associations, academia, industry operators, and media partners—to work together in a unified framework that maximizes impact. The initiative supports organisers in refining concepts, adopting innovative approaches, and ensuring that programmes contribute meaningfully to national development objectives.

The engagement series provides a structured environment for dialogue, idea sharing, and joint problem-solving. By aligning all stakeholders around shared goals, BESarawak enhances the capacity of the ecosystem to generate measurable outcomes, foster innovation, and ensure that the benefits of each event extend well beyond its duration.

Three Pillars Driving Transformation
BESarawak’s strategic approach for the coming four years is anchored on three guiding pillars: transformation and innovation, legacy and impact, and partnerships and people. These pillars provide a framework for strengthening capabilities, embedding long-term value, and nurturing a collaborative ecosystem.

• Transformation and Innovation – Focuses on modernizing event planning and execution through innovative concepts, technology integration, and creative engagement methods to ensure each event delivers high value and lasting influence.
• Legacy and Impact – Ensures that every event contributes to long-term socio-economic benefits, knowledge exchange, and industry advancement. By embedding legacy outcomes, events create enduring value for both participants and the wider community.
• Partnerships and People – Strengthens collaboration between government, industry, associations, and academia while developing human capital. This pillar ensures a resilient ecosystem that supports ongoing growth and the sustainable delivery of high-quality business events.

Record-Breaking Achievements and Economic Impact
BESarawak’s legacy-focused approach is supported by measurable performance. In 2025, Sarawak secured one hundred sixty business events scheduled through 2030, generating a projected total economic value of RM four hundred eighty-three point five million. During the same fiscal year, one hundred fifty-nine events were hosted in the state, representing a twenty-seven per cent year-on-year increase, and delivering RM four hundred ninety-one point four million in economic impact.

These results highlight the effectiveness of a strategic, legacy-oriented approach to business events. By focusing on sustainable outcomes, BESarawak demonstrates that business events can be more than gatherings—they can serve as catalysts for knowledge transfer, industry development, and long-term socio-economic growth.

Nationwide Engagement and Knowledge Sharing
The initiative’s nationwide engagement series fosters knowledge exchange and cross-regional collaboration, connecting stakeholders from multiple sectors and locations. By sharing best practices, innovative strategies, and lessons learned, the programme enhances the capability of organisers to deliver impactful events that leave lasting value.

This approach also strengthens Malaysia’s competitiveness in securing high-profile regional and international business events. By supporting organisers with structured guidance and resources, BESarawak ensures that future events continue to contribute significantly to the national economy while building long-term capacity within the business events ecosystem.

Sustainable Socio-Economic Outcomes
Beyond immediate economic gains, BESarawak emphasizes the broader impact of business events. By prioritizing legacy outcomes, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration, events contribute to workforce development, community engagement, and knowledge dissemination. This strategy positions business events as a tool for national development, creating value that extends across industries, communities, and the economy at large.

The long-term focus enhances Malaysia’s reputation as a strategic hub for business events, attracting international attention and reinforcing the state’s capacity to deliver high-quality gatherings. By embedding sustainability and measurable outcomes into each event, BESarawak sets a benchmark for the future of business events in the region.

Conclusion
BESarawak’s nationwide, legacy-driven strategy demonstrates Sarawak’s commitment to transforming business events into a sustainable engine of national development. Through cohesive stakeholder collaboration, measurable results, and a focus on long-term impact, the initiative ensures that events generate enduring benefits for industries, communities, and the economy. With a forward-looking framework and strong strategic alignment, Sarawak is establishing itself as a benchmark for sustainable, high-impact business events in Malaysia and the wider region.

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Terra Nova Expeditions Unveils a One-of-a-Kind 20-Day Antarctic Journey

Terra Nova Expeditions (TNE) is introducing an Antarctic experience unlike any other with its Ultimate Antarctic Adventure, a 20-day expedition that blends classic cruise exploration aboard the St Helena with intimate, small-ship sailing on the Icebird. This hybrid model opens doors to remote bays, narrow channels, and secluded anchorages, offering travelers a level of immersion rarely possible on standard Antarctic itineraries.

Rising visitor numbers along the Antarctic Peninsula have made popular landing sites crowded, limiting opportunities for personal discovery. TNE’s approach combines the comfort and amenities of a larger expedition vessel with the flexibility of a small yacht, allowing guests to escape the crowds and access rarely visited locations. This ensures a balance between adventure, exploration, and a respectful interaction with the pristine polar environment.

The journey begins with a crossing of the Drake Passage aboard the St Helena. This leg is both scenic and educational, featuring expert-led briefings on Antarctic wildlife, geology, and environmental conservation. Travelers can observe seabirds gliding across the waves and whales breaching in the open ocean while preparing for upcoming activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and shore landings. The crossing serves as a dramatic introduction to the Southern Ocean’s vast and untamed beauty.

By the third day, travelers reach the South Shetland Islands, where icebergs rise from the frigid waters, signaling the start of the Antarctic Peninsula exploration. Daily excursions combine Zodiac cruises, guided hikes, and kayaking adventures. Wildlife encounters are frequent, from waddling penguin colonies to lounging seals and passing whales. Panoramic viewpoints offer sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, while quieter bays provide peaceful spots for reflection and photography.

With over 500 potential landing sites, the itinerary is fully adaptable. Weather, sea ice, and wildlife activity guide daily plans, ensuring that no two expeditions are alike. This flexibility allows guests to avoid crowds and experience the Antarctic environment in a more authentic, intimate way.

Midway through the journey, guests transition to the Icebird for a six-day sailing micro-expedition. The small yacht navigates narrow fjords and hidden bays inaccessible to larger vessels, giving travelers unprecedented access to the peninsula’s lesser-known areas. Days are filled with hiking, kayaking, and Zodiac exploration, with the itinerary adjusting to wildlife sightings and local conditions. Optional experiences, including polar plunges and guided glacier walks, offer additional adventure for those seeking a more hands-on connection with the environment.

Following the Icebird expedition, travelers return to the St Helena to continue their Antarctic exploration before retracing the Drake Passage back to the point of departure. The combination of a large expedition ship and a small yacht allows for a complete Antarctic experience, balancing comfort and scale with intimacy and access.

For guests on other St Helena voyages, TNE offers a Private Day Sailing Experience aboard the Icebird. This six-hour excursion, limited to just eight guests, allows for a quiet, personalized journey among glaciers, icebergs, and secluded bays. The small group size emphasizes tranquility and minimal environmental impact, letting travelers fully absorb the pristine surroundings.

Departures for the 2026/2027 Ultimate Antarctic Adventure are scheduled for December 28, 2026, and January 6, 16, and 25, 2027. Each journey is carefully designed to combine adventure, education, and environmental stewardship, providing travelers with the freedom to explore while ensuring safety and comfort.

By merging expedition cruising with small-yacht sailing, the program offers multiple perspectives on the Antarctic landscape. Guests can view wildlife from both large-ship decks and close-up small-boat excursions, kayak past floating icebergs, trek across glacial terrain, and observe the untouched polar environment in near silence.

The hybrid model also highlights responsible tourism in fragile ecosystems. By limiting group sizes, adapting itineraries to environmental conditions, and accessing less-frequented sites, TNE ensures that guests can enjoy an extraordinary experience while protecting the region for future generations.

In essence, the Ultimate Antarctic Adventure delivers a full-spectrum exploration of Antarctica. From dramatic glacial vistas to intimate wildlife encounters, from large-ship comfort to small-yacht adventure, this expedition offers a level of flexibility and immersion unmatched in traditional polar travel. For travelers seeking a comprehensive, hands-on Antarctic journey, this hybrid experience promises discovery, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime.

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Heritage Expeditions Unveils the Heritage Discoverer, Unlocking a New Era of Global Exploration

Heritage Expeditions is set to elevate its fleet with the addition of a remarkable vessel, the Heritage Discoverer, formerly known as the Exploris One and previously the Silver Explorer. The ship will join the company’s expedition fleet, which includes the Heritage Adventurer and Heritage Explorer, beginning sailings in May 2027. This expansion represents a new chapter for the company, opening doors to a broader range of destinations and deepening the immersive expedition experiences for travelers.

Purpose-built for exploration and adventure, the Heritage Discoverer brings decades of experience navigating the world’s most remote and challenging waters. With a 1A ice-class rating, the vessel can safely traverse Arctic and Antarctic regions, offering unparalleled access to icy landscapes and pristine ecosystems. At the same time, its design allows it to reach secluded islands, hidden coves, and coastal areas that larger ships cannot approach, making it perfect for authentic, off-the-beaten-path journeys.

The ship balances exploration with comfort, providing spacious accommodations, panoramic observation areas, and thoughtfully designed public spaces. Passengers can enjoy close encounters with wildlife, expansive views of glaciers and fjords, and immersive experiences ashore, all without compromising modern comfort. From well-appointed cabins to elegant lounges and dining spaces, the Heritage Discoverer is designed to be both a base for adventure and a retreat from it.

Adding the Heritage Discoverer also expands the company’s global reach. Beyond polar expeditions, the ship will navigate European coastlines, Africa’s remote shores, and South American landscapes. European itineraries will highlight scenic ports and culturally rich coastal routes, African voyages will explore wildlife-rich areas and isolated islands, and South American journeys will traverse dramatic fjords, tropical archipelagos, and hidden coves. This broad range of itineraries positions the Heritage Discoverer as a versatile vessel capable of offering truly worldwide expedition experiences.

The vessel was acquired earlier this year for approximately €4.5 million, bringing a proven history of exploration to the Heritage Expeditions fleet. Select Arctic and Antarctic voyages have already been chartered through Polar Latitudes Expeditions, allowing travelers to experience the ship’s first journeys under its new name and management. Its combination of ice-class capability, navigational flexibility, and onboard luxury makes it ideal for travelers seeking authentic expedition experiences without compromising safety or comfort.

The Heritage Discoverer reflects a growing trend in expedition travel: the demand for small to mid-sized vessels that can access unique destinations and provide more intimate encounters with nature. Unlike larger ships that are limited to major ports, the Heritage Discoverer can reach hidden bays, uninhabited islands, and remote coastal areas, offering a sense of discovery and exclusivity. At the same time, modern amenities ensure a high level of comfort, making the voyage enjoyable for passengers of all experience levels.

Onboard experiences are designed to enhance understanding of each region visited. Guests can participate in guided excursions, wildlife observation, and lectures from expedition specialists, gaining insight into ecosystems, climate, and local history. Observation decks, lounges, and outdoor spaces allow travelers to immerse themselves in the surroundings, whether they are navigating the polar ice, tropical island chains, or dramatic coastal landscapes.

Scheduled to begin sailing in May 2027, the Heritage Discoverer’s maiden voyage itineraries will be announced soon, with early Arctic and Antarctic trips already offering passengers the opportunity to experience the ship’s capabilities firsthand. These journeys will allow travelers to explore glaciers, icy fjords, polar wildlife, and remote landscapes that few ever witness, all while enjoying a safe, well-equipped vessel.

The addition of the Heritage Discoverer signals a bold step forward for Heritage Expeditions. It enhances the company’s ability to offer immersive, expedition-style travel that blends adventure, education, and comfort. Travelers aboard the ship will have access to destinations that are both breathtaking and rarely visited, experiencing nature and culture in an intimate and engaging way.

Ultimately, the Heritage Discoverer strengthens Heritage Expeditions’ position as a global leader in expedition travel. Its ice-class certification, combined with modern amenities and a legacy of exploration, ensures that travelers can embark on journeys across polar regions, Europe, Africa, and South America with confidence and excitement. By expanding the fleet and global itineraries, the ship promises to redefine adventure travel, providing unforgettable experiences for those seeking to explore some of the most extraordinary destinations on Earth.

With the Heritage Discoverer now joining the fleet, Heritage Expeditions sets a new standard for global exploration, offering passengers unparalleled access to remote regions while maintaining comfort, safety, and immersive experiences. From polar ice caps to tropical islands and dramatic coastlines, the ship invites travelers to discover the world in a way few others can, establishing a new era of expedition cruising for those eager to explore the planet’s most remarkable and uncharted places.

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Carnival Cruise Line Announces Carnival Adventure Will Sail Seasonally in Australia from 2028 Before Relocating to North America, Offering Expanded Homeports and Itineraries for Travelers

Starting April 2028, Carnival Adventure will operate on a seasonal basis in Australia before relocating to North America for the northern hemisphere summer. This adjustment reflects Carnival Cruise Line’s strategy to align its fleet with evolving global demand while navigating regulatory uncertainties in Australia and New Zealand.

Carnival has long maintained a year-round presence in the region, offering travelers consistent opportunities to explore Australia’s iconic ports and coastal destinations. Even with this seasonal shift, the cruise line will operate from more Australian and New Zealand homeports in 2027/28 than ever before, giving passengers a wide selection of itineraries. Over the next two years, the line anticipates welcoming around 1.2 million travelers across roughly 400 voyages, ensuring a continued robust offering for local and international guests.

The decision comes amid changing market conditions worldwide. Some international destinations are experiencing rising passenger demand and more predictable regulatory environments, prompting Carnival to adjust its deployment to maximize growth opportunities. Meanwhile, complexities in local regulations have made year-round planning in Australia more challenging. By moving Carnival Adventure to a seasonal schedule, the company can balance operational flexibility with a continued commitment to Australian cruises.

Travelers will still find a diverse set of itineraries throughout Australia and New Zealand, including tropical northern ports, scenic southern coastlines, and culturally rich destinations. From short weekend cruises to longer, immersive journeys, the expanded schedule ensures travelers have options to fit any preference or timeframe.

Beyond offering travel opportunities, Carnival’s operations play a significant role in the regional economy. The company’s presence supports 22,000 jobs and generates more than $7 billion annually, benefiting local travel agents, shore excursion providers, food suppliers, and transport operators. Even with the seasonal shift, Carnival’s operations continue to contribute to Australia’s tourism infrastructure and support thousands of associated businesses.

Carnival Adventure will complete all scheduled Australian voyages before its April 2028 relocation. During its time in the region, passengers will continue to enjoy the cruise line’s signature onboard experiences, including entertainment, dining, and leisure activities, while exploring some of Australia’s most captivating destinations. This schedule provides travelers with multiple options to plan both short escapes and longer vacations.

The move also reflects broader trends in the cruise industry. Operators are increasingly making deployment decisions based on passenger demand patterns, economic conditions, and regulatory landscapes. By adjusting Carnival Adventure’s schedule, Carnival can maintain operational efficiency, enhance passenger experiences, and remain competitive in key markets globally.

For travelers planning ahead, the announcement highlights the importance of booking early. The 2027/28 season offers extensive homeport operations and itineraries across Australia and New Zealand. Cruises cater to diverse audiences, from solo travelers to families, couples, and large groups, providing a variety of experiences in coastal cities, remote ports, and tropical destinations.

Overall, the seasonal adjustment of Carnival Adventure demonstrates Carnival Cruise Line’s ability to adapt to global market shifts while maintaining a strong presence in Australia. The expanded 2027/28 offerings, combined with a focus on passenger experience and economic contribution, ensure that the company continues to be a key player in the region’s tourism landscape.

Even as Carnival Adventure transitions to seasonal service, the cruise line remains committed to delivering memorable experiences at sea, supporting local communities, and providing travelers with access to Australia’s natural beauty and cultural richness. With the ship completing its final Australian voyages in April 2028, passengers can expect the same high-quality cruising experience that has long been associated with Carnival, while the company positions itself strategically for growth in both local and international markets.

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Abercrombie & Kent Implements Strategic Trade Sales Shake-Up to Drive Growth and Global Expansion

Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG), a leader in luxury travel and the parent company of Crystal Cruises, has unveiled a major realignment of its trade sales leadership aimed at strengthening support for travel advisors and boosting growth across its portfolio of brands. The company has introduced a new Chief Sales Officer – Trade and broadened the scope of responsibilities for two senior executives, creating a more unified and agile leadership structure.

The new Chief Sales Officer now oversees all global trade sales across AKTG’s luxury offerings, including Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal Cruises, A&K Sanctuary, Cox & Kings, and Ecoventura. Reporting directly to the CEO, this position centralizes leadership across the company’s portfolio, ensuring consistent strategy and enhanced engagement with trade partners worldwide. The initiative is designed to provide advisors with the tools, guidance, and support necessary to deliver high-end, personalized travel experiences to clients.

In addition to this appointment, two senior executives have expanded roles that cover critical aspects of trade operations. One executive now manages field trade sales across all brands, along with business development and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) sales. The other executive’s remit has grown to include oversight of trade loyalty programs and events company-wide. This realignment aims to optimize operations, improve coordination, and unlock new growth opportunities in the competitive luxury travel market.

This structural shift reflects AKTG’s recognition of evolving customer expectations in the luxury travel sector. Travelers increasingly demand curated itineraries, exclusive accommodations, and seamless, high-quality experiences. By creating a more integrated trade sales leadership, AKTG is positioning itself to better support advisors in navigating this complex market, ensuring they have access to a comprehensive suite of offerings and resources to meet client needs.

Luxury travel continues to grow globally, with increasing interest in immersive experiences, unique destinations, and personalized service. In this context, trade partnerships remain a critical channel for connecting with high-value clients. By consolidating leadership and clarifying roles, AKTG aims to enhance efficiency, enable quicker responses to market trends, and provide consistent support to advisors across all regions.

The expanded leadership roles also strengthen AKTG’s ability to implement coordinated strategies across multiple brands. With a centralized focus on trade loyalty, field sales, and event management, the company can create a more seamless experience for advisors and clients alike. This approach improves communication, simplifies access to offerings, and provides a structured framework for promoting cross-brand packages, travel programs, and exclusive experiences.

Global expansion is another key driver behind the leadership reshuffle. AKTG operates across multiple continents, catering to a diverse luxury travel clientele. A unified leadership structure ensures that advisors receive consistent messaging and can efficiently navigate the company’s portfolio. By streamlining contact points and integrating resources, AKTG enhances its ability to respond to regional market demands while maintaining the quality and prestige associated with its brands.

The focus on trade support aligns with industry trends emphasizing partnership, loyalty programs, and experiential events. Companies that prioritize advisor engagement are better positioned to foster repeat business and drive sustainable growth. AKTG’s approach highlights the importance of empowering advisors with comprehensive tools, access to curated experiences, and structured loyalty initiatives, creating mutual value for both the company and its trade partners.

Additionally, the restructuring enables AKTG to innovate in its sales and marketing strategies. By consolidating leadership, the company can more effectively develop cross-brand promotions, introduce tailored travel packages, and explore emerging trends such as sustainable travel and immersive cultural experiences. These initiatives enhance the overall travel offering and ensure that the company remains competitive in the fast-evolving luxury market.

Industry experts note that luxury travel companies benefit from centralized trade leadership by improving operational efficiency, maximizing resources, and maintaining a clear strategic vision. For AKTG, this realignment strengthens its ability to maintain strong relationships with travel advisors, deliver exceptional client experiences, and sustain long-term growth across its global portfolio.

Overall, the leadership changes at Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group mark a strategic step toward greater cohesion, operational efficiency, and advisor-focused support. By unifying trade sales responsibilities and expanding the scope of senior leadership, AKTG is setting the stage for continued growth in the luxury travel sector. The move reinforces the company’s commitment to equipping travel partners with the tools and resources needed to deliver high-quality, personalized experiences, while expanding its presence in key international markets.

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