Mala Dorasamy is an accomplished business leader and visionary strategist in the global business events industry. As the Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), she has played a pivotal role in transforming the venue into a powerhouse for business events, driving economic growth, job creation, and tourism, in Malaysia. Since taking the helm at MITEC, Mala has spearheaded initiatives that drive innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation, reinforcing the venue’s position as a key player in Malaysia’s MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. Her leadership has led to numerous prestigious industry accolades, underscoring MITEC’s contribution to economic growth and international business collaboration. A passionate advocate for women in leadership, Mala leads by example, with women making up 70% of MITEC’s leadership. She believes in fostering an inclusive and empowering work culture, mentoring the next generation of industry leaders, and ensuring that leadership opportunities are accessible to all. Her journey from South Africa to Malaysia has been one of resilience and innovation, breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Under Mala’s leadership, MITEC has integrated sustainability and innovation at its core including captioning eco-friendly practices, from energy-efficient operations to partnership and collaboration, ensuring that every event aligns with global sustainability standards. Beyond business events, Mala is deeply committed to workforce development and investing in the future. Through strategic university partnerships, MITEC has established a dedicated graduate programme, nurture young talent and create a strong pipeline of professionals for the industry. With MITEC expanding into new event categories and diversifying its portfolio, Mala remains at the forefront of reimagining business events in Malaysia. Her leadership continues to elevate MITEC’s global presence, ensuring its impact extends beyond hosting exhibitions to shaping the future of the industry. Mala is deeply committed to fostering partnerships, talent development, and sustainability within the business events industry. She actively engages with global stakeholders, industry associations, and policymakers to promote Malaysia as a leading destination for international exhibitions and conferences. Her passion for excellence and forward-thinking approach continue to elevate MITEC’s reputation, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the evolving business events landscape.