THE state’s flagship business events conference, BE @ Penang 2025, will return on Dec 11 and 12 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre under the theme “Be The Wave.”
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the annual event, organised by the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB), has grown into one of Malaysia’s most influential platforms, driving collaboration and innovation in the business events and creative economy sectors.
“Over the years, BE @ Penang has become more than just a conference. It is a movement that drives ideas, partnerships and progress for Penang and beyond,” he said at a press conference at Setia SPICE Convention Centre today.
He said the event unites government agencies, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, academics and young professionals, fostering meaningful discussions and innovative solutions.
“It is through this diversity that Penang continues to stay ahead in this competitive and ever-evolving industry,” he added.
He urged all stakeholders to participate and contribute towards Penang’s continued growth as a leading business events destination.
Meanwhile, PCEB chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran said this year’s theme, “Be The Wave,” serves as a call to action for the industry to embrace change and innovation together.
“We invite everyone not just to witness change, but to actively contribute, to collaborate, innovate, and ride the crest of future trends,” he said.
Ashwin also announced that Nissan chief product specialist Hiroshi Tamura, famously known as the “father of the modern GT-R,” will headline the event as keynote speaker.
He is expected to share insights on visionary leadership and industry transformation.
Ashwin added that a pre-conference activity, “Wave Makers: A Penang Discovery Adventure,” will be held on Dec 10 and 11, giving participants the chance to explore Penang’s vibrant culture through creative and interactive experiences.
Conference Partners Asia director Quah Dee Dee said this year’s conference is expected to attract around 400 participants, with 16 speakers lined up to deliver their keynote sessions.
“We are looking forward to an engaging and impactful conference that not only inspires industry players but also promotes inclusivity.
“This year, we are also looking into addressing the needs of children with autism as part of our commitment to social responsibility,” she said.
Also present during the media conference were Olive Tree Hotel Penang director Andrea Cheah and Amari SPICE Penang Sales senior manager Putri Khairul Nisha.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat