Media Release
BCCK STRENGTHENS INTERNATIONAL EVENT AMBITIONS AHEAD OF 2028 EXPANSION
02 November 2026
The recognition reflects BCCK's commitment to venue management, operational standards and service delivery, providing greater confidence to international organisers considering Kuching as their next host destination.
"International event organisers look for venues that can deliver consistently, supported by experienced teams and reliable infrastructure. This recognition is an encouraging reflection of our team's efforts and reinforces our commitment to maintaining these standards as we prepare for the next phase of BCCK," said David Bareng, COO of BCCK.
A NEW CHAPTER FOR KUCHING'S BUSINESS EVENTS INDUSTRY
Targeted to become operational in 2028, BCCK's expansion will integrate its existing and new facilities into one connected campus, offering approximately 31,333 square metres across its major halls and concourses, capacity for up to 1,044 exhibition booths, 34 meeting rooms and a simultaneous capacity of approximately 15,000 people.
The expanded facilities will give organisers greater flexibility to accommodate large exhibitions, plenary sessions, concurrent meetings and supporting activities within a single campus.
Among the major events confirmed for Kuching is the IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition 2028, expected to attract thousands of international delegates, researchers and industry professionals. The congress represents the scale of events Kuching is preparing to accommodate while creating opportunities for knowledge exchange, professional collaboration and business development.
INVESTING IN PEOPLE AND SERVICE EXCELLENCE
Alongside the physical expansion, BCCK is strengthening its operational and service capabilities, including the recent appointment of Chef Asfia Rizal as Executive Chef.
Bringing 24 years of culinary experience across Malaysia and Kuwait, Chef Rizal returns to BCCK after previously serving with its culinary team from 2013 to 2018. His appointment supports the centre's continued efforts to enhance its catering and dining experiences for conferences, exhibitions, corporate functions and social events.
"Whether we are preparing meals for a small gathering or catering for thousands of guests at a major event, consistency and proper preparation are essential. The scale may be different, but the attention we give to the food and our guests should always remain the same," said Chef Rizal.
CREATING OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND THE VENUE
Beyond increasing event capacity, BCCK's expansion is expected to generate wider opportunities for Kuching's hospitality, transportation, food and beverage, retail and event-related industries.
"When we bring an international event to Kuching, the economic benefits extend well beyond BCCK. Hotels, restaurants, transportation providers and businesses across the local supply chain all stand to benefit," David explained.
"With our expansion, we also hope to encourage more private investment, particularly around The Isthmus, where complementary businesses and services can develop alongside the growing business events industry."
BCCK will continue collaborating with Business Events Sarawak, tourism stakeholders, industry associations and event organisers to strengthen Kuching, Sarawak’s competitiveness as an international business events destination.
For BCCK, the expansion represents an opportunity to welcome a broader range of international gatherings to Sarawak, strengthen connections with global industries and create lasting benefits for the local economy.