KUCHING: Sarawak's Business Events Sarawak Legacy Initiative (BESLegacy Initiative) has won the Best Sustainability Initiative in the Destination category at the prestigious M&C (Meetings & Conventions) Asia Stella Awards.

This recognition highlights the BESLegacy Initiative as the most innovative sustainability programme among all destinations in Asia.

According to Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak has been focusing on sustainable practices in business events through the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030). 

The strategy aims to promote economic prosperity, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. He emphasised that this award reflects the state’s commitment to Sarawak's development.

“We are thrilled that our efforts are being recognised by the global industry, and we will continue to strengthen Sarawak’s position as a leading destination for responsible and impactful business events,” he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Chairman of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), Dato Sri Abang Abdul Karim Tun Datuk Abang Openg, stated that the organisation is committed to creating a sustainable economy, society, and environment by evaluating the impact and legacies of business events.

“Our ‘Tribe Legacy Sarawak’ campaign, with the tagline ‘Driving Impact Together,’ perfectly captures what can be achieved when we collaborate towards a shared vision. Sarawak will continue to advocate for sustainable growth, foster innovative collaborations, and drive initiatives that leave lasting legacies for our society,” he said.

The BESLegacy Initiative, launched in 2020 by BESarawak, is Malaysia’s first and only framework that helps business event planners design conventions and exhibitions with sustainability outcomes. These include community development, environmental responsibility, and economic growth.-UKASnews