(from centre) The 14th Malaysia Gifts Fair (MGF) 2024 organising chairman Albert Choong and Malaysian Gifts and Premium Association (MGPA) president Ivan Loo showing thumbs up, with their team at the official launch of the fair held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, KL.
KUALA LUMPUR: The 14th Malaysia Gifts Fair (MGF) 2024 will be promoting sustainability in the gifts and premium industry, acknowledging the importance of the concept of circular economy.
The fair was officially launched at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on March 27.
The host, Malaysian Gifts and Premium Association (MGPA) president Ivan Loo and the fair’s organising chairman Albert Choong were honoured that this year's official launch ceremony was again witnessed by Malaysia External Trade
Development Corporation (MATRADE) (exporters development) deputy chief executive officer Mansor Shah Wahid.
“As we navigate the corridors of this fair, let us be mindful of the broader economic narrative we are part of. Every transaction, every exchange, and every partnership forged here echoes through the chambers of our national economy, bolstering our export figures and strengthening our economic standing globally,” says Mansor Shah.
The event introduces an innovative theme, "Gifts for the Circular Future", it’s an establishment of a long-term strategy based on each enterprise’s need. Highlighting the commitment of the industry towards sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
In line with MGF sustainability commitment, they are implementing initiatives to create positive impacts now and in the future. Embracing technology, they have replaced printed materials like brochures with digital copies. Three years ago, MGF led this shift by digitising the Click Buyers' Guide, a practice still in place today, offering global accessibility.
Implementing an integrated event app enhances sustainability by reducing paper usage, streamlining communication, and improving efficiency in scheduling and navigation. This not only enhances attendee experience but also aligns with sustainability goals, making events more eco-friendly and resource-efficient.
Counting more efforts like a recycle box for lanyards with a message placed at exit. Instituting a free water refill station on site so visitors/ exhibitors can refill their reusable bottles. Purchase from local suppliers, businesses reduce the distance that products travel, which in turn reduces the use of fossil fuels in transportation.
This reduces emissions, resulting in lower carbon footprints. Every effort counts towards achieving greater sustainability goals!
Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises hold immense potential to drive the transition towards a circular economy due to their agility and localised operations. However, they often face challenges such as limited access to finance, lack of technical knowledge, and regulatory and procedural barriers, which hinder their ability to fully leverage circular and sustainable practices.
Hence, Loo announced, “We unveil groundbreaking initiatives outlined in MGPA’s Blueprint 2023-2026, named MGPA Connect+. These initiatives are not mere strategies but pathways to synergy; aiming to align all our efforts within MGPA towards a common objective: the advancement and prosperity of our industry.”
He also encourages members and exhibitors to take simple steps towards sustainability. “They should begin by assessing their current practices, then set clear goals and objectives. Optimising supply chain management and involving employees in sustainability efforts are also crucial.
“Additionally, they should seek financial incentives and support. By following these steps systematically, SMEs can integrate sustainability into their operations cost-effectively. This not only benefits the environment but also boosts their competitiveness and resilience in the marketplace.”
The MGPA Connect+ Blueprint is driving transformative change and solidarity within the community, fostering collaboration and innovation. This initiative aims to position Malaysia as a global leader in creative and sustainable gifting solutions, showcasing the nation's capabilities on the international stage.
“We anticipate the turnout of more than 15,000 trade visitors and buyers, who will engage with over 200 trade exhibitors from Malaysia, Vietnam, Hong Kong and Korea. This year MGF is poised to be our most significant gathering, symbolising the ASEAN’s largest gifts and premium fair,” shares Choong.
Visitors can anticipate captivating programmes designed to enrich their experience like a comprehensive CSR workshop, a collaboration workshop with interactive activities with the autism society and autistic artists through showcasing their unique talents and contributing to the gifts and premium industry, attendees will not only enrich their own experience but also play a part in fostering a more inclusive and vibrant community.
These activities promise to captivate and educate attendees in equal measure. Additionally, the excitement continues with a reward giveaway to pre-registered visitors, there will be a cash voucher giveaway, adding an extra incentive for on-site purchase only.
For more information, browse through www.malaysiagiftsfair.com.my.
