Event Asia Society Annual Conference
Venue Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers, Ho Chi Minh City
Organiser Asia Society
Delegates 1,000
Date April 22-24



The brief
The Asia Society is a global organisation working to strengthen relationships and promote understanding among the people, leaders, and institutions of Asia and the US. The Asia Society’s Annual Asian Conference is a highprofile event that aims to bring together government leaders and key decision-makers to debate, discuss and develop the role of Asia in today’s global society.

Challenges
One of the key challenges was organising airport transfers and registration for more than 1,000 delegates. Delegates attended from 19 different countries so special catering was provided as well as simultaneous translation during the conference.

Execution
Planning for the event began in mid-2008. The conference was held in Ho Chi Minh City. Questions such as ‘How is the Asia Pacific region addressing the complexities of the financial crisis?’ and ‘How will US policy towards Asia be impacted by the Obama administration?’ were asked and debated.

Industry and government experts shared their views and experiences with delegates through a diverse range of speakers. A highlight of the event was the buffet lunch on Sheraton’s 23rd floor which has breathtaking views of the city.

Co-organisers for the Asia Society’s event included Wall Street Journal Asia, Vietnam Ministry of Planning and Investment, United Airlines, IBM, Prudential and Philip Morris International.

Comment
Judy Kilachand, CEO of the Asia Society, says: “Our partnership with Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers was one of the smoothest and most professional we have experienced in our time of organising the conference. The venue was outstanding and can certainly hold its own on a world scale, from the impression of its grand entrance to the extensive lunch buffets, to the readiness of the staff to assist at a moment’s notice. It was a very smooth process indeed.”