Malaysia Rises as Global Business Events Hub

Malaysia strengthened its global meetings industry profile after improved ICCA rankings, with Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre driving international conferences, economic growth, knowledge exchange and sustained confidence from global organisers.

Malaysia Strengthens Global Meetings Leadership

Malaysia has strengthened its position as a leading destination for international business events after improving its standing in the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) GlobeWatch Country & City Rankings 2025.

The latest rankings placed Malaysia 32nd globally for ICCA-qualified international association meetings, while Kuala Lumpur secured 29th place worldwide with 73 qualifying meetings. The achievement highlights growing international confidence in Malaysia’s ability to host high-value conferences that promote knowledge sharing, investment and innovation.

A key contributor to this success is the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, which hosted 16 ICCA-qualified international association conferences in 2025. The venue welcomed 756,721 delegates, including more than 59,000 international participants, generating an estimated RM1.5 billion in economic impact for the country.

Deputy General Manager Robert Hatton-Jones said the rankings demonstrate Malaysia’s capability to deliver world-class events that create lasting value beyond the conferences themselves. He noted that international meetings bring together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders and experts, fostering collaboration while supporting economic growth.

The Centre has already confirmed 19 international association conferences for 2026, expected to attract over 22,600 delegates and contribute around RM60 million to the economy. Major events include the Asia Pacific Society of Infection Control Congress, the World Union of Wound Healing Societies Congress and the Asian & Oceania Epilepsy Congress.

Looking ahead, the Centre has secured more than 15 international association conferences for 2027, reflecting continued confidence from global organisers.

Industry stakeholders believe sustained collaboration and innovation will further strengthen Kuala Lumpur’s reputation as a preferred destination for international meetings, exhibitions and knowledge-driven business events.

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