By ROSLI MANSOR AHMAD RAZALI
IPOH: The newly upgraded Dewan Cassia is set to become a key venue in positioning Perak as a rising player in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, while also supporting the development of local sports.
Once a shooting training facility, the hall has been given a modern facelift and transformed into a versatile multipurpose venue, said Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
He said the transformation reflects the state government’s commitment to optimising existing assets for new economic opportunities without neglecting their original functions.
The project is a result of a strategic collaboration between the State Secretary Incorporated (SSI), its subsidiary Solatis Power Sdn Bhd (SPSB), and the private sector.
“Dewan Cassia is now suited for various events including seminars, workshops, weddings, and community activities, making it an inclusive space for all levels of society,” Saarani said.
He noted that the MICE industry is expected to grow significantly and contribute to the global economy, with projections reaching USD 1.7 trillion by 2030.
Of the four MICE segments, corporate meetings remain the largest contributor, followed by incentives, conferences, and exhibitions, opening up opportunities for venues such as Dewan Cassia in Perak.
Saarani also praised the hall’s upgraded features, including a modern lighting system and flexible layout, which not only support shooting sports development but also help stimulate the local economy.
While acknowledging that Perak’s sports facilities are not yet on par with national elite training centres, he said such upgrades mark an important first step in gradually strengthening the state’s sports ecosystem.
He added that the approach of repurposing government assets should be extended to other districts to ensure facilities are fully utilised and not left idle.
“I hope Dewan Cassia will become a new landmark in Ipoh and a hub for inclusive development in sports, economy, and community engagement,” he said.
