SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD IN MAJOR MOVE TO BOOST EVENTS INDUSTRY

Singapore's events industry will be given a shot in the arm with the formation of the first ever Singapore chapter of the International Festivals and Events Association.

The move, jointly mooted by the local industry and Singapore Tourism Board will give to Asia the first ever IFEA chapter in the region. The local chapter is expected to be formed within the second half of this year and will initially be run by members of the industry on a voluntary basis.

IFEA, headquartered in the United States, is an association of event and festival organisers that is dedicated to enhancing professional standards through education and business networking. IFEA,s membership covers more than 3,000 major events and organisations across four continents of the world.

IFEA's prestigious annual awards - the Pinnacle Awards - are seen as an industry barometer of the best standards achieved at the global level. Singapore made it to the record books last year when it became the first Asian country to have won the IFEA Pinnacle Awards for MilleniaMania, Singapore Food Festival and the World Gourmet Summit. With an IFEA chapter in Singapore, event organisers, venue owners and suppliers will enjoy access to international business contacts and expertise which will otherwise be difficult to secure. The business referrals and listings in the IFEA directory are some of the tangible benefits. Members affiliated to the local chapter will also enjoy the recognition and visibility associated with the worldwide status of IFEA.

Mr Kevin Leong, STB's Director Events Marketing said: "We want the industry to have the necessary backing and professional input to give it that quantum leap. There are many worthwhile assets of the local players which have contributed to Singapore's reputation for hosting some of the big ticket events. To sustain and improve, the IFEA is a logical step forward and a local chapter will undoubtedly be the industry,s global connection."

Bruce Skinner, present IFEA president said: "IFEA chapters are now established in North America, Australia and Europe. We are also expecting a chapter in South Africa later this year. We see Singapore as the logical location for our presence in Asia. With the sound track record of Singapore's events industry and the determination to succeed in this business, there is no doubt in our minds that the local chapter will move forward to become the regional chapter for the industry in Asia."

Some IFEA activities to be coordinated by the local chapter based here will include seminars, conferences and trade shows that centre on the events business . These will act as invaluable business platform for local companies to exchange ideas with and promote to the international industry.

Mr Leong added: "The international access provided by IFEA will open many important opportunities for the local ( and regional) industry and move Singapore ahead towards achieving our goal of becoming the Events Capital of Asia."