The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Since opening in 2005, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre has become a cornerstone of Malaysia’s MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) industry. Ideally located in the heart of the capital and flanked by iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, the Centre has thus far hosted over 22,000 events, contributing an estimated RM12.6 billion in economic impact.
Now entering its 20th year, the Centre is undergoing a significant transformation. Under the leadership of General Manager John Burke, the venue is not only upgrading its physical infrastructure but also redefining its strategic priorities to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving global events market.
“The Centre continues to be extremely busy, but we’re not just chasing numbers anymore,” Burke says. “We’re being more selective — focusing on events that bring international delegates, economic value, and knowledge exchange to the country.”
Venue To Value
Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre General Manager, John Burke.
In recent years, the Centre has shifted its focus towards international conferences and industry-specific exhibitions. The refurbishment programme, currently ongoing, is designed to enhance flexibility and functionality — a response to changing client needs for smaller, more personalised spaces, alongside traditional large-scale gatherings.
Despite construction work, the Centre remains operational and busy as ever. Last year, it hosted approximately 1,600 events, a testament to its resilience and relevance. The updates aim to futureproof the venue for the next two decades while elevating both experience and efficiency.
“We need to build our own shows. That’s how we build capacity and ensure long-term growth.” – John Burke.
Burke’s strategic vision however goes beyond physical upgrades. He advocates for stronger collaboration within Malaysia’s MICE ecosystem, including venue operators, supply chains, and government bodies like MyCEB and MITEC. “We need to build our own shows,” he stresses. “That’s how we build capacity and ensure long-term growth.”
Enhanced Experience
Beyond conventions, the centre also caters to smaller events like meetings.
Another area of transformation is technology. Burke explains the Centre is leveraging on technology such as AI to minimise areas like food waste and to ensure sustainability. Visitor experience is also being reimagined — from remote registration and facial recognition to real-time data tracking, helping organisers and the venue optimise operations and space usage.
Food, often overlooked in convention settings, is a distinct point of pride for Burke. With a fully in-house brigade of over 50 chefs, the Centre runs the largest production kitchen in Malaysia, aiming to match the nation’s food culture with award-winning quality.
While entertainment events featuring comedian Russell Peters and concerts with artistes like Sting are welcome additions, the Centre remains anchored in delivering business value. “Business travellers spend more and drive trade,” says Burke. “We see ourselves as a platform for economic growth — connecting industries, attracting investment, and creating opportunities for the good of the country.”
(Images: KL Convention Centre)
