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3 Reasons to Visit MIDE

3 Reasons to Visit MIDE

reasons-to-visit-mide-1 3 Reasons to Visit MIDE

For any underwater aficionado, there are many compelling reasons to visit MIDE. The Malaysian International Dive Expo (MIDE) has been held annually since 2006.

It attracts visitors and dive resorts/operators from Malaysia and the world. The most recent iteration was held from 7 to 9 June 2024 at MITEC, Kuala Lumpur.

The event was a smashing success and attracted thousands of visitors over the three-day event weekend. Next year’s event has already been confirmed for 6-8 June 2024. Undoubtedly, it will be another success.

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MIDE 2024 opening ceremony.

3 Reasons to Visit MIDE

For any scuba diving enthusiast, there are many great reasons to visit MIDE. This article will highlight some of them.

The Top Three Reasons to Visit MIDE:

1. Unbeatable Diving Packages

MIDE is well-known for being the place to score the best deals on diving holidays/packages. For many, this is arguably the number one reason to visit MIDE. Various dive operators, resorts and even tourism departments come to MIDE to advertise and sell their tour/holiday packages.

These are often sold at a significant discount, making them very attractive. Therefore, many local diving enthusiasts purposely wait to book their dive holidays until MIDE.

Importantly, MIDE brings all these dive/resort operators under one roof. This undoubtedly makes it easy for diving enthusiasts to find what they’re looking for without going to multiple places. Convenience is also one of the benefits of MIDE.

Examples of dive packages that are frequently on offer include:

  • All-inclusive, multi-day diving packages to many famous and less well-known destinations throughout Malaysia, like scuba diving at Sipadan Island.
  • Discounted prices for beginner and advanced diving courses.
  • Deals for live-aboard boats.
  • Overseas dive packages, including trips to exotic locales like the Maldives and Raja Ampat, Indonesia.
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One of the many dive operators with booths at MIDE was Buwan Dive Resort from Semporna, Sabah.

2. Discounted Diving Gear and Equipment

Of course, to go diving, you need diving gear! And there’s no better venue to get the best value for diving gear than MIDE.

Various diving retailers throughout Malaysia will be present here, bringing many popular brands worldwide. Whatever you’re looking for, if it’s diving-related, it’ll be here.

Many of these pieces of equipment are sold at a significant discount. Throughout the event, MIDE is akin to a massive scuba diving emporium. These products often sell fast, so it’s best to visit as early as possible!

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There will be many booths selling and displaying diving equipment.

Examples of diving equipment that’s frequently on sale:

  • Diving wetsuits, footwear and apparel.
  • Dive masks, snorkels, fins
  • BCD and regulators
  • Diving torchlights
  • Miscellaneous equipment such as gloves, pointers, signalling buoys, drybags, etc.

3. Underwater Photography Gear

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The ever-popular OM System TG-7 underwater camera was front-and-centre at MIDE 2024.

Another great reason to visit MIDE is to check out the underwater photography gear. Products from various well-known brands are sold here at special prices.

From tried-and-tested gear to the latest tech, plenty of options are available to suit every budget.

Examples of photography gear on offer include:

  • Underwater cameras, especially the compact ones
  • Underwater housings for various cameras
  • Lighting equipment (video lights, strobes, etc.)
  • Trays, accessory lenses, buoyancy floats, etc.

Most importantly, visitors can get the best advice on photography gear that suits their needs and skill level. This is exceptionally beneficial as underwater photography is often overwhelming, especially for beginners.

For those wanting to delve into underwater photography, MIDE is undoubtedly the place to be.

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Many of the famous underwater photography brands will be present at MIDE.

Other reasons to visit MIDE

More than just a trade event, MIDE offers many more reasons to visit, and I am sure that everyone will have their wishlist or target when they come here.

Some of the other reasons include:

Listening to a variety of talks

MIDE is excellent for those interested in attending various diving-related talks, forums, and discussions. These talks are held throughout the event weekend.

They frequently focus on conservation and education, which is crucial to ensuring the future of the ocean environment.

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This was one of the many discussion panels and talks held during the MIDE 2024 event weekend. This particular panel was titled “Can we save the reefs?”

Additionally, there are discussions and panels on underwater photography. Lastly, the scuba diving expo also hosts a panel focusing on women in diving.

Conservation education

MIDE always has a strong emphasis on conservation. In addition to the talks, various NGOs and conservation associations are present here. Examples include Reef Check Malaysia and Turtle Conservation Society Malaysia.

Get inspired

MIDE also hosts a small underwater photography gallery showcasing award-winning works from local and international photographers. Visitors can enjoy the multitude of beautiful photos, videos, and brochures from the various exhibitors. There is no better way to get inspired for your next dive outing!

Meeting like-minded people

Where else in Malaysia can you meet so many like-minded people under one roof? MIDE provides a fantastic opportunity for networking amongst fellow underwater enthusiasts.

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A variety of booths were seen at MIDE 2024.

More information

For more information on MIDE, head over to the following links:

  1. MIDE official website
  2. MIDE Facebook page

Conclusion

There are many compelling reasons to visit MIDE. Whether you’re an experienced scuba diver or just starting out, the Malaysia International Dive Expo offers something for everyone.

If you missed the MIDE 2024 event, fret not—next year’s event promises to be even bigger and better. See you at MIDE 2025!

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