Q&A with Edward Liu, president, Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS)

What is Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS) doing to rally members in the current recession?
To help address the effects of the economic downturn, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Workforce Development Agency (WDA) and SACEOS co-organised a forum for the MICE and events sector in February. Senior members felt that upgrading programmes would benefit junior executives, especially in exhibition logistics where additional training courses are available. Others suggested more flexibility when providing assistance for company in-house training programmes.

SACEOS is also engaging members through regular e-communications to keep them abreast of industry issues and developments. SACEOS formed a task force in December 2008 with management consultants helping to formulate a new vision and strategies. 

What progress has been made? 
Some 20 captains of the MICE industry have been involved in strategic planning workshops for the past two months. They will identify strategic initiatives to bring the industry to the next level. The 2020 MICE Industry Strategic Plan, featuring a new vision and mission, should be ready by April. 

How is SACEOS engaging government agencies and other bodies to strengthen ties and produce positive results? 
 SACEOS is partnering with STB and WDA in rolling out programmes to help members overcome present difficulties. Key SACEOS
officials met STB’s new chief executive Aw Kah Peng and made recommendations for the rapid recovery of the MICE industry. SACEOS will also meet WDA officials to chart programmes. In addition, SACEOS will engage other stakeholder associations to develop a common platform to tackle the economic downturn.