The expo, renowned for its extensive array of exhibitions, workshops, and networking opportunities, has set a new benchmark for the diving community.

The expo was officiated by YB Khairul Firdaus bin Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia on 7 June 2024.

Attendance - The expo attracted over 14,213 attendees from 50 countries including Malaysia, surpassing previous records and solidifying its position as a premier event in the diving calendar. Divers from all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, came together to explore the latest advancements in diving technology, safety equipment, and underwater photography.

“This year we were overwhelmed with over 190 companies from 12 countries registered including Malaysia and the expo welcomed 39 new companies who joined the expo this year”, the expo's organizer, Ness Puvanes, shared. Sales generated for the three-days expo brought in a total of  RM24.6 million in revenue for the exhibitors.

Innovative Exhibitions - Exhibiting companies showcased cutting-edge gear and services, and participants were introduced to the latest innovations in the diving industry. Highlights included:

• New Dive Computer: Featuring advanced tracking and safety features.
• Eco-Friendly Wetsuits: Made from sustainable materials, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
• Product/Services: Several companies chose the expo to unveil their latest products, creating buzz and excitement among attendees.

Camera technology - showcased at the expo was a major attraction, featuring groundbreaking products from leading manufacturers. Attendees were treated to live demonstrations, interactive sessions, and hands-on experiences with the latest equipment, including:

• High-Resolution Underwater Cameras: Cameras offering unparalleled image clarity and detail, designed to capture the vibrant colours and intricate details of marine life.
• Advanced Housing Units: Durable and reliable housing solutions that ensure camera safety and functionality at greater depths.
• Lighting Systems: State-of-the-art underwater lighting that enhances visibility and color accuracy, crucial for both photography and videography.

Engaging Workshops and Seminars - a series of expert-led workshops and seminars covered a wide range of topics, including:

• Marine Conservation
• Technical Diving Techniques
• Underwater Photography
• Youth-Led Sessions

Notable Speakers and Special Guests - The event featured keynote speeches and over 10 forum discussions by prominent figures in the diving community, shared insights on the latest marine research and conservation strategies and their thrilling experiences and the future of diving. 

Attendance by Schools and University – This year, universities and international schools traveled to the expo to learn about and explore the undersea environment through prepared talks and forums.

Community and Networking - The Dive Expo provided an invaluable platform for networking, allowing trade and exhibitors to connect with like-minded individuals, potential business partners, and industry experts. 

Careers in Scuba Diving - Empowering Future Dive Professionals - One of the standout achievements of this year's expo was the focus on career opportunities within the scuba diving industry. The expo provided a platform for individuals interested in pursuing careers in the scuba diving industry. A dedicated counter was made available for leading dive schools, dive gear manufacturers, marine research organizations, and eco-tourism companies, offering job opportunities and internships.

Attendees responded favorably to the segment and participated with enthusiasm. "The Careers in Scuba Diving segment were extremely informative," said a prospective dive instructor. I now have a clear route to pursue in order to launch my ideal profession”.

Well-Received Documentary Screening - A major highlight was the exclusive screening of “50HOURS UNDERWATER – A DIVE FOR HOPE,” a powerful film that explores deeper insights into the making of the film and the complexity of the underwater world and its environmental message.

Mr Shaff Naem, who is an underwater explorer and the Asian Record holder for the longest Scuba dive, took us through on his incredible journey with his teammates venturing into unknown underwater world and setting a record.

Best Booth Award – The Best Booth Awards were presented to exhibitors who demonstrated outstanding creativity, innovation, and engagement in their booth presentations. These awards celebrate the efforts of exhibitors who went above and beyond to provide an exceptional experience for expo attendees.  The winners of the Best Booth Awards were:

1^st Winner – Tourism Terengganu - Malaysia

2^nd Winner – Tourism Promotions Board Philippines

3^rd Winner - The One Tenggol Island Resort - Malaysia

Recognition Award - The Recognition Award was presented to dive certification agencies that has demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing the standards of dive certification, promoting safe diving practices, and fostering a love for the underwater world. 

The award was presented by YB  Khairul Firdaus bin Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia to Thomas Knedlik of PADI, Jean Claude Monachon of SSI, Wiliam Tong of NAUI, Alex Yeo of TDI SDI PFI, Gouthaman Kaniaselan of CMAS MALAYSIA on their crucial role  in ensuring the safety and proficiency of divers. 

Lens Beyond Ocean Photo competition – The annual underwater photography competition saw 7 winners take home their prizes.

• Macro: Tan Sin Yi (Malaysia) – Prize sponsored by Silver Reef Dive Resort, Philippines
• Wide Angle: Karlo Macas (Croatia) - Prize Sponsored by Miguel's Diving Gorontalo
• Compact Camera: Novrizal Herdananto (Indonesia) – Prize Sponsored by Amun Ini And Salaya Beach
• 3 Min Video: Amy Lawson (Australia) – Prized Sponsored by Amaya Liveaboard
• Best Of Malaysia By Malaysian: Khaichuin Sim (Malaysia) – Prize Sponsored by Nayara Liveaboard
• Honorable Mentions: Mohd Shakir Md Ali Safudin (Malaysia) – Prize Sponsored by D'Lagoon Dive Resort, Lembeh
• Organizer's Choice Award: Gary Chong Chern Wei (Malaysia) – Prize Sponsored by Atlantis Dive Resorts & Liveaboards.

Kids Education Zone – A Hub for Learning and Fun – One of the expo's most notable features was the Kid Education Zone, which attracted hundreds of young kids and their parents. The zone was designed to ignite curiosity about marine life and diving through engaging and interactive experiences, offering a variety of educational and entertaining activities tailored specifically for children. 

Plans to increase the educational options at upcoming Dive Expos are being driven by the Kid Education Zone's popularity. Ness Puvanes, said, "we are overjoyed by the positive response from families. In order to motivate, inspire and educate the upcoming generation of ocean stewards, we aim to continue to enhance our educational zones.

Purchaser’s Lucky Draw - The Purchaser's Lucky Draw was a highlight of the expo, offering attendees who made purchases at the event, a chance to win a variety of exciting prizes worth in total of RM85,000. The draw was aimed to reward attendees for their enthusiasm and support of the diving community. Ms Leong Pui Yee  from  Kuala Lumpur  won the Grand Prize, of 8days/7nights on full board with My Felicity Liveaboard worth RM15,000.

“We thank all our prestigious sponsors, My Felicity, B& J Diving Centre, GTS Travel Sdn Bhd Tenggol Coral Beach, Aman Tioman, 17 Wave Freedive, Red Divers Sdn Bhd, Quiver Adventure Sdn Bhd, Tralleo Sdn Bhd, The Buwan Dive Resort, Tenggol Dive Buddy, Scubaholic Anonymous, IST Malaysia, Salang Bay Divers, Prestige Scuba, Cocowave Global, Migalabs Solutions (M) Sdn Bhd, Flow Dive Centre, One Ocean Empire, The Submersible Sdn Bhd, Silver Reef Philippines, Ocean9 And Trshbg   for their gracious sponsorship and congratulate all the Purchaser's Lucky Draw winners. Our approach of giving back to the diving community and expressing our gratitude for their support through the draw,” Ms Ness Puvanes shared.

Positive Feedback and Looking Ahead – “A visitor described the Dive Expo as an amazing experience with lots of chances to network and learn from other diving enthusiasts”. The Organizer also added, citing positive feedback from both exhibitors and attendees regarding the event's planning and content.

Additionally, the Organizer, Ms Ness Puvanes revealed that preparations are already starting for the upcoming MIDE Dive Expo 2025, which promises to be even bigger and more exciting for both attendees and exhibitors.

AsiaEvents Exsic express heartfelt thank you for the unwavering endorsement and support from:

Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) 
Ministry of Tourism Arts & Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) 
Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (MTPB) 
Sabah Tourism Board (STB) 
Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPBP) 
Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) 
Jabatan Pelancongan Negeri Terengganu
Tioman Development Authority (TDA)
Malaysia Association Conference Exhibition Of Suppliers (MACEOS) 
DAN World (Asia-Pacific) 
X-Ray Mag (Denmark) 
Malaysia Asia (Malaysia)
AmLeisure Media Sdn Bhd  (Malaysia) 
DiveLog Australasia (Australia)
ScubaDiver Magazine ANZ
The Star (Malaysia) 
Biz + Leisure (Malaysia)
Lifton Media (Germany)

All Exhibitors, Partners, Sponsors, Suppliers, Dive Agencies & Speakers

MIDE 2025 has already been confirmed for 6-8 June 2025. 

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