ITCMA and CTW Asia, the Asia-Pacific’s only double-billed MICE and corporate travel event, formally opened today, 23rd September, at the Bangkok Convention Centre @ CentralWorld in Bangkok, Thailand.
Darren Ng, managing director of TTG Media Asia, delivered the opening remarks for the event together with Supawan Teerarat, president of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau.
As with prior editions, this year’s IT&CM and CTW Asia provided participants with an engaging program focused on business, education, and networking opportunities for event professionals in the region.

Considering the needs of an emergent generation of MICE professionals

In her keynote speech themed Design Local Act Quenching the Thirst for Authenticity, Teerarat highlighted how the demands of modern MICE travelers challenge conventional event design. Crafting compelling events for this dynamic audience now requires authentic, immersive experiences that connect participants with the culture and heritage of their destination.
Teerarat also noted that urban destinations have the potential to tap into richer creative resources to meet these expectations, referencing the Creative City Model developed by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
Through this platform, cities can leverage their cultural assets and indigenous wisdom to address the evolving needs of MICE audiences. Furthermore, MICE can act as a catalyst for enhancing such valuable locational treasures.

Looking towards the future

Teerarat’s keynote was followed by a strategic outlook presentation titled Shaping the Future of Travel, led by Pacific Asia Travel Association’s Noor Ahmad Hamid.
Hamid asserted that travel remains a significant economic and social force that shapes communities and cultures globally. He shared insights into the global travel outlook for the next three years, emphasizing emerging trends, changing traveler behaviors, and strategic opportunities.
As the industry confronts sustainability challenges and technological disruptions, Hamid explained how destinations can stimulate growth through inclusive models, cross-sector partnerships, and innovative storytelling.
Session participants included destination managers, policymakers, and industry leaders examining data-driven strategies for a resilient and purpose-driven travel future.