Northstar

Hot Idea (TOP LEFT) LLUSTRATION: GETTY IMAGES 8 SEP-OCT 2018 MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS MCMAG-ASIA.COM Oftentimes, attendees only get a glimpse of their destination's sights and sounds. A new approach to meetings in Malaysia encourages one to imbibe the local spirit with elements of the country's multi- faceted cultures innovatively infused with the conference experience. So expect conversation-sparking moments over freshly prepared snacks as attendees are immersed in tailor- created programmes that oer the best of Malaysia's multi-textured cultural and culinary heritage. Sho Hwee, Marriott International, area director of sales & distribution - Singapore, Malaysia and The Maldives, describes the 'MY Marriott Meetings by Marriott International' concept as a showcase of authentic, experiential options that "faithfully recreate Malaysia's colourful culture, food and heritage with a more enriching experience for Malaysian business meetings." By introducing these cultural layers, meetings in Malaysia go beyond the generic. Hwee adds that international guests' engagement will be elevated to new and more personal levels as the "cultural facets and contrasts available in Malaysia add to the country's appeal as an ideal destination for meetings." Meet like a local WORDS MARK LEAN Meetings in Malaysia take on authentic scenes and flavours, from nostalgic classroom to bustling markets that offer delicious street food. Have a teh tarik, it's break out time! Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu oers coee breaks with local character. Network and sip on a free ow of refreshing sabah tea and kopi tenom. Get to know your fellow attendees in between meetings while snacking on creative local specialties like roti kahwin, chicken bambangan in bamboo, banana fritters with cheese. At The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, meetings morph into fun – and delicious – activities. Highlights include a teh tarik (tea-pulling ceremony), Malaysian themed coee break stations, and exotic local delicacies to sample. Similarly, at Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral, the 'Joms Lokal" meeting package includes a live action teh tarik stall to keep attendees energised, while tea time treats such as nasi kandar, roti jala and kuih muih local sweets, and timeless sundry shop titbits transform the hotel's sophisticated meeting spaces into a bustling scene, perfect for snacking and networking. Get immersive! Step back in time at the Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur to the age of post- colonial Malaya. In the pillar-less Clarke Ballroom, project customised multi-coloured images according to the A creative set-up by the rainforest and beach in Langkawi FAST FACTS + MY Meetings by Marriott International offers specially curated packages for planners. + Taking place from September 6 to December 31, 2018, these meeting packages are exclusively offered at 17 Marriott International properties in Malaysia + Book by December 15, 2018 to receive a host of enticing benefits.

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