GEORGE TOWN: Setia SPICE Convention Centre & Arena is strengthening its position as one of Penang’s leading business events venues with a series of facility enhancements, sustainability initiatives and major international events as it prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary in March 2027.
The plans were highlighted during the Setia SPICE Client Appreciation Dinner 2026, themed “Gather n’ Goal – Connecting Champions, Celebrating Excellence”, which brought together clients, organisers, partners and industry stakeholders.
Setia SPICE said the appreciation dinner was held as a tribute to the partners whose continued confidence and collaboration have contributed to the venue’s growth and the wider business events industry in Penang.
Drawing inspiration from football, the venue said the theme reflected the importance of teamwork, preparation, perseverance and collaboration in achieving success.
“Every successful event requires strong collaboration. You bring the vision. We provide the platform. Together, we create extraordinary experiences,” it said.
As part of its continued efforts to improve the visitor and organiser experience, Setia SPICE has already completed the replacement of its ballroom carpet, with further upgrades planned over the coming months.
These include the replacement of ballroom acoustic wall panels, upgrades to audiovisual equipment and improvements to advertising spaces throughout the convention centre.
The Setia SPICE Arena is also undergoing significant technical enhancements as the venue prepares to meet evolving event requirements while maintaining standards in comfort, reliability and safety.
More refurbishment and enhancement projects are expected to be carried out in the coming years.
Setia SPICE said the investments are aimed at giving organisers greater confidence that events hosted at the venue can continue to meet world-class expectations.
Setia SPICE marks 10 years
The venue will reach another major milestone in March 2027, when it celebrates its 10th anniversary.
The decade-long journey will be marked by a year-long programme featuring activities, industry collaborations and community engagements.
The official launch of the 10th anniversary celebrations is scheduled for March 18, 2027.
Setia SPICE said the milestone would not only celebrate the venue’s achievements but also recognise the clients, organisers, suppliers and partners who have contributed to its development over the past decade.
“Ten years of partnerships with many of you sitting here tonight. Most importantly, ten years of earning your confidence,” it said.
Sustainability remains a key focus
Sustainability is also expected to remain a major component of Setia SPICE’s future development.
The venue has strengthened its food waste management initiatives, with food waste from many events being responsibly repurposed into Black Soldier Fly Larvae, compost and biofuel.
The initiative aims to reduce waste sent to landfill while creating environmental and economic value from event-generated food waste.
Setia SPICE said additional initiatives involving energy efficiency, operational improvements and resource management are also in the pipeline as it continues its sustainability journey.
Major international events ahead
The venue’s growing profile is also reflected in the major events secured for the coming years.
Among the international and regional events being hosted at Setia SPICE are APSR, MOA ASM 2026 and V-CONFERENCE.
Looking ahead to 2027, the venue is set to host the 8th ASEAN Ophthalmology Congress and the 34th SEA Games, one of Southeast Asia’s major sporting events.
Setia SPICE said the calibre of events coming to the venue reinforces Penang’s position as a competitive destination for business events and international gatherings.
The venue reiterated its commitment to being more than simply an event space, positioning itself as a long-term partner for organisers through its facilities, experience and professional event support.
As Setia SPICE approaches its 10th anniversary, the venue said its guiding promise remains “Proven by Experience. Trusted for Excellence.”
Its anniversary aspiration is captured in the theme: “Ten Years of Exceptional Events, Sustainable Innovation & Unforgettable Experiences.”
The Client Appreciation Dinner concluded with Setia SPICE thanking its clients and partners for their continued support, while inviting them to be part of the venue’s next chapter as it enters its second decade.
