The Middle East Facility Management Association (Mefma) has reaffirmed its commitment to nurture and guide entrepreneurs as well as promote innovation in the regional facilities management (FM) industry through proper skills development and effective knowledge sharing.

Mefma, a non-profit association that provides a dedicated platform for FM professionals, wider construction industry stakeholders, and owner associations, made the commitment during a workshop it had organised recently in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Over 200 senior officials and executives from different entities within various industries took part in the workshop entitled, ‘Entrepreneurship in Facilities Management.’

It was inaugurated by the vice-chairman, Facilities and Property Management Community, Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Mefma board member Mohammad K Al Duraibi.

In his keynote address, Al Duraibi stressed on the commitment of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce, particularly its Real Estate Committee, in sharing important insights, feedbacks and recommendations that can help in the efforts to further develop the real estate industry.

"By reaffirming its mission, Mefma has sought to underscore the importance of an entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, high-level awareness of the latest FM trends, and an empowered FM community in the region through careful and regular assessments of the industry’s capabilities and services," he noted.

This way, the regional FM players can provide better and more enhanced services to their customers, he added.

Al Duraibi said the workshop served as a strategic platform to discuss and exchange views about timely issues revolving around the real estate industry.

"The event proves to be timely as participants were able to share insights and experiences with some of the industry's leading thought leaders and personalities while also looking into potential FM opportunities that can help in the growth and development of the sector," he noted.

The workshop's success was a result of the strategic partnership and positive co-operation between the Association and Riyadh Chamber, stated Al Duraibi.

The day-long event featured a panel discussion and a workshop covering timely industry topics like how to enhance the competitiveness of FM companies and how to build a strong presence within the target markets.

Mefma vice-president Ali Alsuwaidi, expressing delight at the turnout, said: "The workshop falls in line with our efforts to organise regular training sessions, forums, workshops, and similar activities throughout the Middle East to facilitate the exchange of experiences and knowledge among key stakeholders as well as help enable fruitful discussions to come up with effective solutions to pressing challenges."

"Apart from strengthening ties with various relevant associations and institutions, promoting entrepreneurial spirit and innovation in the industry is the key to keep up with our counterparts in other parts of the world," he noted.

"Rest assured that Mefma remains committed to continue the hard work to promote the regional FM community and spread awareness on the best industry practices," he added.-TradeArabia News Service