By: Nurul Akhtar Kamarudin 

In my experience managing various programs from small gatherings to formal events involving important public figures, one thing I’ve learned is this: protocol is not just a set of rules, but a discipline that requires attention to detail, empathy, awareness, and good judgment. This is where I truly realized that behind every smooth and well-organized event, there is careful planning that most people never see.

As an event manager, I’ve encountered many situations that have shown me just how important protocol is in shaping the overall experience of a program.

1. Protocol Guarantees the Event Runs Smoothly
There’s one quote I always hold onto, “A good event is one where no one ever must ask,‘What’s next?” This is something I’ve personally felt every time I plan the flow of an event. The timing, the coordination between the technical team, the announcements, and even how guests move around all of it must happen in sync. And this is where protocol plays a huge role. It gives a proper framework and ensures that every step has been planned, tested, and agreed upon.

2. Respecting Guests & VIPs the Right Way
In protocol, showing respect isn’t just about seating arrangements or the order of speeches. It’s about understanding sensitivity and culture. Sometimes, even a small gesture like welcoming a guest a few steps away from the main door can have a lasting impact. I still remember what one of the protocol mentors once said, “VIPs don’t ask for respect, protocol exists to ensure we show it the right way.” And honestly, that has proven true in every event
I’ve managed.

3. Protocol Builds the Organizer’s Image
A well-planned event reflects who we are as organizers. A smooth event sends a message that the organization is professional, organized, and trustworthy. I’ve seen many times how good protocol can shape participants’ perception and even strengthen future collaborations. Like the saying goes, “The success of an event is measured long before it begins, by its preparation.” And this is exactly where protocol becomes a powerful driving
force.

4. Reducing the Risk of Unwanted Mistakes
When managing events, unexpected situations are bound to happen such as technical hiccups, last-minute changes in the speech order, late arrival of guests of honor. But protocol taught me one key principle, “When we are prepared, panic won’t take over. Protocol makes sure everyone knows what to do when changes occur. It ensures we have Plan A, B, and C ready. And sometimes, we even need Plan D.

5. Maintaining Event Quality Every Time
Every organization that manages events regularly needs a clear standard. Protocol doesn’t just set that standard, it ensures it stays consistent even when teams change, venues change, or the scale gets bigger or smaller. I always remind myself, “Consistency is professionalism in motion.” When every event is guided by the same protocol structure, the quality naturally remains strong.

6. Creating a Positive Experience for Everyone
At the end of the day, protocol is about experience. The experience of guests, participants, VIPs and even the team behind it all. When an event runs well, attendees can follow comfortably without confusion or disruption. I strongly believe, “Good protocol is when guests feel the event is easy, even though it was highly complex behind the scenes.” That is the real fulfillment for an event manager. All these experiences have taught me that protocol is not just instructions, nor is it simply about formality. Protocol is the art of managing people, time, and moments with respect and empathy. Through protocol, I’ve learned to be more aware, more organized, and more
appreciative of the unseen work backstage, work that may not be visible, but always felt in its impact.

Date of Input: 28/11/2025 | Updated: 20/01/2026 | nm_aini