MGM and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) have joined forces to introduce a cutting-edge MICE capacity-building initiative. The program is designed to provide current and aspiring professionals in Macau’s MICE sector with essential skills and up-to-date knowledge to excel in a rapidly evolving environment.
With Macau moving forward with its goal of economic diversification, the MICE industry has emerged as a crucial pillar for sustainable growth. As a company deeply rooted in Macau, MGM actively supports Macau’s “1+4” economic diversification strategy by providing innovative and high-quality MICE services.
The Company strongly believes that the future of the MICE sector lies in the seamless integration of smart technologies and sustainable practices.
PATA is a non-profit membership association that promotes the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. This collaboration with PATA represents one of the many initiatives by MGM to contribute to Macau’s vision of becoming a world-class destination for conventions and exhibitions.
Under the theme of “MGM & PATA Forum – The Future of Tourism, Hospitality and MICE”, the program kicked off on September 24 at MGM COTAI. Distinguished guests who were invited to officiate the opening ceremony include Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO); Elaine Wong, Director of the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM); Vic Lam, Chief of the Division of Tourism, MICE and Commerce of the Economic Development Bureau of Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin; Noor Ahmad Hamid, Chief Executive Officer of PATA; and Dr. Iwan Dietschi, Senior Vice President of Hospitality of MGM.
During the opening ceremony of the event, Dr Iwan Dietschi said, “The recent recognition of Macau as the ‘Best Convention City in Asia’ for the second consecutive year highlights the city’s world-class MICE infrastructure and ability to deliver exceptional event experiences, and I am confident that through this program co-organized with PATA, MGM will continue to help strengthen Macau’s position as a global leader in the MICE industry.”
Addressing the opening ceremony, Noor Ahmad Hamid said, “This event is a testament to the power of collaboration. Working alongside MGM and with support from government agencies such as MGTO, IPIM, and the Economic Development Bureau of Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, PATA is committed to equipping industry professionals with the tools and strategies needed to stay competitive. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and excellence, we are positioning ourselves to thrive in the future.”
The capacity-building program took place from September 24 to 26 and drew nearly 330 participants, including government officials, MICE practitioners, members of the PATA Macau Chapter, university students, professors, staff members of Macau’s integrated resorts, as well as MGM team members.
The invited MICE experts included Noor Ahmad Hamid, Chief Executive Officer of PATA; Pavnesh Kumar, Director of Sustainability and Research of PATA; Sina Bunte, founder of Digitalmind.events; and Adeline Larroque, founder of Ennov-Solutions, who delivered lectures on a wide range of topics, such as marketing strategies for MICE events, the integration of artificial intelligence into the MICE industry, and sustainable practices in event management.
The trainers also held a discussion session on the emerging trends, technologies, and practices in international hospitality and tourism. Participating in these talks enabled local MICE stakeholders to learn about the latest advancements in the industry and enhance their event organization skills.