Recognising the power of social media to influence, the Ministry of Tourism took the lead to organise the inaugural Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA 2012) in Seri Pacific Hotel, Kuala Lumpur on 8-9 May 2012 to increase the awareness on the pivotal role of social media in tourism and to accord due recognition to bloggers who have shown their dedication to the cause of sharing their travel experiences.
Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Awards
In conjunction with the conference, the inaugural Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Awards is to identify, recognise and reward bloggers for their outstanding contributions in promoting tourism through the new media. I was privileged to attend the event to gain knowledge besides increasing my circle of network in the tourism and social media world. 😀
The Speakers
Sheila Scarborough
Co founder – Tourism Currents & professional specialising in tourism, travel and social media
Shane Dallas
Traveller, writer – The Travel Camel
Anuradha Goyal
Innovation consultant & travel writer, India
Hanie Hidayah
Business Law student & lifestyle blogger
Anis Nabilah
Malaysian celebrity chef & TV host
Dr, Mridula Dwivedi
Assoc. Professor – GD Goenka World Institute, Gurgaon, India
Alistair Watters
Founder & owner – TravelBlog.org
Mike Aquino
Editor to New York Times Group travel site & writer on About.com SEA
Nisha Jha
Traveller, travel writer & blogger
Stephan Doss
Social media activist – Renovatio Malaysia
Windy Ariestanty
Prominent travel writer, Indonesia
Iman Brotosena
Social media activist & prominent Indonesian blogger
Kiruba Shanker Sivaraman
CEO – Business Blogging, India
David Hogan Jr
Travel writer, photographer & editor, Malaysia Asia
Jojo Struys
Popular TV host/producer & media columnist
Joe Lee @ Klubbkidd
Social media activist, advisor to prominent online celebrities
James Craven
Managing Director – Hybrid News Ltd. UK
Khairul Anwar @ Kruel74
A lawyer, social media advocate & avid traveller
In a Nutshell
I generously acquired a large sum of knowledge from the experts and veteran bloggers at the conference. New friends were made and healthy relationships were formed. It was a start to something bigger, better and beautiful. I am proud and blessed to be a part of the Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards (MITBCA) 2012. Till we meet again next year. 😀
For more info on MITBCA, visit their official website here.