Sarawak is geared up to host the International Hydro Power Association Congress (IHAC) in 2013 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK). This event is set to attract 600 delegates over 3 days, with an estimated delegate expenditure of RM 2,099,600. It would be the first time that the Congress is held in the Asia Pacific region.
The winning bid was a collaborative effort between local host, Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), the Malaysian Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) and the Sarawak Convention Bureau (SCB).
The event is in line with the State Government’s SCORE (Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy) agenda. At the core of this plan is the availability of renewable substantial energy resources, which include hydropower potential equivalent to 28,000 MW. Sarawak Energy Berhad bid for the IHAC 2013 as the conference outcomes can serve as a model for other parts of Asia.
Nick Wright, Vice President -External Relations of Sarawak Energy Berhad said, “I am very honoured that the International Hydro Power Association (IHA) has decided to bring its world congress to Kuching, Sarawak which will further strengthen our commitment to become a Sustainability Partner of the IHA.”
“With the IHAC 2013, SEB will be able to work towards effectively managing issues faced by hydropower development, counteract negative historical experiences and address dated issues about the hydropower industry’s approach to sustainability,” he added.
Mr. Zulkefli Hj Sharif, CEO of MyCEB commented, “The success of winning the bid for IHAC 2013 will be very beneficial to building Malaysia’s performance as the highly competitive global meeting industry.”
“The SCB are in full support of the IHAC 2013 as the economic impact of the SCORE agenda will provide a permanent boost to Sarawakians’ standard of living in years to come,” he adds.
