KUCHING: Business Events Sarawak’s (BESarawak) Chief Executive Officer, Jason Tan Chin Foo, has become the first Sarawakian appointed to chair the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Asia Pacific Chapter.
Tan will serve as chairman for the 2026-2028 term, taking on a regional role covering the international meetings and conventions industry across Asia Pacific.
He said his focus would be on strengthening connections among members and encouraging greater collaboration across the region.
“I’m honoured to be appointed as ICCA Asia Pacific Chair. My aspiration is to build a stronger, more connected and inclusive Asia Pacific Chapter where collaboration becomes our greatest strength.
“Together, we will share knowledge, elevate professional standards and champion sustainable development to create a more resilient business events industry that delivers lasting value for our members, our destinations and our communities,” he said in a statement.
Tan also paid tribute to his predecessor, Jane Vong Holmes, Senior Manager for Asia Pacific at GainingEdge, for her leadership of the chapter.
BESarawak’s Chairman, Datuk Hii Chang Kee, said the appointment reflected the international business events community’s confidence in Tan’s leadership.
“Jason’s appointment is a recognition of his leadership and dedication to the business events industry.
“We are honoured that he has been entrusted with this important regional role, and we are confident he will contribute meaningfully to strengthening collaboration, knowledge exchange and the continued growth of the business events industry across Asia Pacific,” he said.
ICCA Asia Pacific’s Senior Regional Director, Waikin Wong, said Tan’s industry experience and collaborative approach would be valuable in bringing members together and strengthening regional cooperation.
“Jason’s appointment is a testament to his leadership, industry expertise and commitment to advancing the business events sector,” he said.
ICCA represents more than 1,000 member organisations across over 100 countries and territories through six regional chapters covering Asia Pacific, Africa, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, Middle East and North America.
The global association represents the international meetings and conventions industry and promotes collaboration, knowledge exchange, advocacy and professional development among its members.
