Quick takes

Jack Ma ventures out to company HQ

The Alibaba founder made a rare public appearance last week at the company’s Hangzhou headquarters. Ma has not been seen often since he irritated Beijing last October. He has made plenty of private trips though. The Financial Times published a good investigative account of his private jet travels since last October. (Hainan is apparently his favourite destination.)

Hamid to leave ICCA

Noor Ahmad Hamid, ICCA’s Regional Director in Asia, has announced that he will leave his role in June. This comes after having spent 12 years at ICCA, serving the association and supporting its members across the region’s meetings industry. No word on Noor’s next role, but BSG wishes him well.

Malaysia announces new restrictions

The Malaysian government has announced new restrictions known as “movement control orders” (MCO) beginning last week and lasting for 14 days. Interstate travel has been banned nationwide since January when the so-called “MCO 2.0” was announced. Under the new restrictions, the six districts placed under MCO will also not be allowed to travel inter-district, except for emergencies. Dining in and social activities will also not be permitted.

Asia Fruit Logistica cancels 2021 show

The organiser cited severe limitations on international travel during the global pandemic as the reason for cancelling the Hong Kong-based event. Held in September, the exhibition typically attracts 800 exhibitors and 12,000 visitors from 70 countries. Of course, this is not a good sign for the autumn trade fairs in Hong Kong.

Good news: Hong Kong and Thailand reduce quarantine

Thailand plans to end its mandatory quarantine for vaccinated visitors to Bangkok and other top tourist destinations as of October. Hong Kong has (finally) decided to ease its strict quarantine policy as of 12 May. Hong Kong will shorten mandatory quarantine for fully vaccinated visitors from low-risk countries to just seven days, down from 14 days.