Next-Gen Event Masters: Events Management Students Shine from National Challenge to International Stage

Taylor’s University School of Hospitality, Tourism & Events (SHTE) celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of its Bachelor of International Events Management students at the National Business Events Challenge, organised by the Malaysian Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (MACEOS). The prestigious competition brought together 10 teams from 7 leading universities nationwide to showcase innovation, strategic thinking, and expertise in event management at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

Two SHTE teams, InnovateX and NxtGen Founders, distinguished themselves with exemplary proposals, earning top honours in the competition. Team InnovateX, comprising Ng Wei Xiang, Wong Qimin, Lee Ee Teng, and Chong Su Ying, impressed the judging panel with their concept, “Wellness Driven Hotel & Resort Congress”, and was awarded a Merit Award (Top 3). Team member Ng Wei Xiang additionally received the Best Presenter Award in recognition of his outstanding presentation and communication skills.

Team NxtGen Founders, consisting of Ibrahim Naahil Ahmed, Fathimath Malaka Ameer, Simon Hii Wei Sung, and Almarhabi Mohammed Atiah, captivated the judges with their proposal, “iMPower: Beyond Limits Convention”, earning both the Best Presentation Award and the Champion title. This achievement qualified them to represent Malaysia at the AFECA MICE Youth Challenge, an international platform for emerging talent in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, which was held in Jakarta in November 2025.

The success of both teams was supported by the dedicated mentorship of Dr. Khairiah Ismail and Miss Dhiya Hikmahana Abdul Razak, whose guidance was instrumental in the students’ preparation and performance. Beyond the accolades, the students reflected on the invaluable learning gained from the competition. They noted that it had challenged them to move beyond theoretical knowledge, apply practical event management principles, and respond effectively to feedback. From conducting comprehensive feasibility studies to designing engaging delegate experiences, the competition strengthened their critical thinking, teamwork, and public speaking abilities, all of which are essential for professional success in the dynamic events industry.