Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Introduction

1.              Thank you for the invitation to officiate at the opening of the International Exhibition, Convention & Meeting Industry Expo 2004 (IECM2004).

2.              I am pleased to note that this inaugural event has attracted a good turnout, with over 4,000 participants from more than 16 countries. I would like to extend a warm welcome to all participants, especially our guests from overseas.

3.              IECM2004 is an excellent platform for members of the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) industry to expand their business networks, exchange new ideas and chart strategic directions for the industry. I hope that you will take the opportunity to participate actively in the exhibitions and engage in fruitful discussions over the next few days.

Singapore’s MICE Industry

4.              For many of you who travel frequently, you would be familiar with Singapore. We are strategically located as a key node in Asia’s extensive business network, with air links to 167 cities in 53 countries. Our good connectivity with regional and international markets enables us to be the confluence of people, capital and ideas from all over the world, and an ideal launch pad for companies entering the global marketplace. Our sound legal and financial infrastructure, stability and security, and quality exhibition and convention facilities have made Singapore a choice venue for major international events. 

5.              In addition, we have been raising the service quality and operational standards of our MICE industry through new initiatives such as the Singapore Standard on Exhibition Terminology and Audit Procedures (SSETAP) and the Controlled Performance (COPE) certification in meetings. Singapore is also the first city in Asia to hold the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) examination.

6.              Complementing the “hardware” of world-class infrastructure and “software” of professionalism and service quality, Singapore’s vibrant leisure and entertainment scene offers business travellers a wide spectrum of unique experiences. Visitors have a kaleidoscope of choices – from colourful international events and rich cultural activities, to memorable shopping trips and a sumptuous array of local and international cuisine. We will also continually enhance our attractions and tourism offerings to keep our visitors engaged.

7.              All these factors have contributed to making Singapore the top convention city in Asia and the third most preferred convention city in the world[1]. We are honoured to host many of the top trade exhibitions in the Asia-Pacific Region, such as Asian Aerospace, CommunicAsia & BroadCastAsia, Food & Hotel Asia, and International Furniture Fair Singapore. We can look forward to more major events such as the 117^th International Olympic Committee Session in 2005, and the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group in 2006.

International Competitiveness

8.              Competition within the international MICE industry is intensifying. Convention and exhibition organisers are actively pursuing growth opportunities, while event venues are getting larger and more sophisticated. In the face of increasing regional and global competition, the MICE industry in Singapore must continue to enhance its international competitiveness by differentiating itself and creating value for organisers, exhibitors and customers. In particular, the industry needs to maintain its edge in adopting new marketing techniques, embrace technological innovations, enhance events management expertise, and raise service standards.

9.              The government will play its part by working closely with industry partners to ensure that Singapore remains an international exhibition city and regional convention hub. We will continue to invest in our infrastructure and nurture a conducive business environment. For example, we will expand the capacity of the Singapore Expo so that it can host larger events more frequently. We will also build on our reputation and business linkages to invite global industry leaders to Singapore. This will contribute to the development of the local MICE industry.   

Conclusion

10.          IECM2004 plays an important role in contributing to the growth and development of the MICE industry. I would like to congratulate the Singapore Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS) for organising a successful event. I am confident that this event will grow steadily over the years.

11.          On this note, it is my pleasure to declare IECM2004 open. I wish all of you an enjoyable and enriching time.

12.          Thank you.