IT was an evening filled with good food and soulful music performances at the welcoming dinner for the participants of the world heritage leadership programme, ‘Training for Trainers Course on World Heritage Management: People Nature Culture’ at the Fort Cornwallis today.
The workshop is a collaborative effort involving George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI), the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM), and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the guest of honour, said the state government recognises the rich cultural heritage that has been handed down through generations, shaping Penang’s identity and character.
“As stewards of cultural and natural heritage, I hope this workshop will stimulate fruitful and insightful dialogues contributing to sustainable actions and implementations by all involved.
“I wish everyone can generate ideas and solutions that shall serve as a roadmap for your site, to protect the natural resources, safeguard cultural heritage, and improve the quality of life for the people.
“I am confident that the insights and connections formed during the workshop will be instrumental in paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future,” Chow added.
Chow also thanked the ICCROM and IUCN for choosing Penang to be the host for the workshop and also looked forward to further strengthening the multilateral relationship between Penang, ICCROM, IUCN and all the participants.
He encouraged everyone to enjoy and immerse themselves in the sounds, tastes, and senses of George Town during the event, relishing the city’s delicious cuisines, and fostering great friendship.
Chow also shared that the state government had spent RM20 million to restore the moats of Fort Cornwallis.
“The work is expected to be completed and open to the public by 2025.
“The venue for this evening’s dinner is Fort Cornwallis, which is a Category I heritage site within the property of George Town World Heritage Site,” Chow added.
Meanwhile, IUCN heritage and culture team head Tim Badman commended the state government for its efforts concerning heritage conservation.
A total of 35 world heritage professionals from 20 countries, namely Algeria, Chile, China, Colombia, Egypt, France, Guatemala, Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, North Macedonia, Norway, Palestine, Peru, Portugal, Romania, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Zimbabwe and Malaysia, are participating in the programme.
The workshop will continue at the Royale Chulan, Penang until this weekend.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat