Borneo Convention Centre, a new landmark in Kuching

PETALING JAYA: The Borneo Convention Centre (BCCK) (pictured) in Kuching, Sarawak, is poised to boost Malaysia’s growing appeal as the preferred destination for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE).

Sitting on a 6ha waterfront overlooking a lush green forest, BCCK is a world-class convention centre with state-of-the-art facilities. It boasts the “Great Hall”, which can house up to 5,000 people at one time.  The 2,793 sq m pillarless hall can accommodate up to 2,100 people.  There are 14 function rooms, a fine dining restaurant and a VIP lounge.

“Since opening its doors on Aug 2, 2009, the BCCK has hosted 52 events and welcomed over 30,000 delegates. Its strategic location and our commitment to exceed our clients’ expectations, among others, have made this convention centre one of the preferred location venues in Asia,” BCCK’s chief executive, Trevor McCartney said in a statement on March 1.

BCCK is managed by Borneo Isthmus Development Sdn Bhd, a Sarawak state-owned company.

BCCK will be officially launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak tonight (March 2). The Chief Minister of Sarawak, Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud will also be present.

The Convention Centre was the brainchild of the Chief Minister. Construction began in 2007. BCCK has a unique rainforest-themed architecture, and a major feature of the centre’s design is its roof, which is shaped in the form of a “rink” leaf, a rainforest plant that plays an important role in the local indigenous cultures.