PENANG is set to be the host destination for the World Research Travel Conference 2024 (WRTC 2024) at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre from Nov 3 to 7.
The momentous occasion marks the first time the event is being held outside China.
Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran extended the state’s gratitude to the World Research Travel Organisation (WRTO) for selecting Penang as the host destination for the WRTC 2024.
“We are thrilled to welcome all delegations. We anticipate around 1,200 delegates, with participation from over 20 universities worldwide.
“These esteemed institutions will engage in insightful discussions and collaborations that will help shape the future of research travel,” he told a media conference in Komtar today.
Ashwin said the significance of research travel could not be overstated, especially for destinations like Penang.
“It goes beyond traditional tourism by creating a platform for knowledge exchange, strengthening global economic partnerships, and promoting sustainable tourism development.
“By blending education with travel, research travel offers participants a profound way to experience a destination – connecting them deeply with the local culture, history, environment, and academic community.
“Looking ahead, the WRTO is focusing on three key areas – developing international research travel talent, advancing research travel-based camps, and fostering greater cooperation among universities and research institutions globally,” he added.
Ashwin highlighted that the conference is expected to generate an estimated economic impact (EEI) of RM9.76 million.
“This underscores the significance of WRTC 2024 as a high-value, high-impact business event,” he explained.
WRTO Malaysia secretary Mint Leong said among the programmes, the organiser would be launching research travel packages for Penang and Malaysia.
“We appreciate the support from the tourism players to ensure success,” she said.
WRTC 2024 organising chairman Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Khani Daud said the organiser recognised Penang’s appeal as a premier global destination and it aims to invite tourism researchers to participate, share insights, and exchange knowledge.
“We are eager to explore how we can further enhance Penang’s appeal and deliver even greater value to our destination,” Dr Abdul Khani said.
Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai stated that hosting the conference aligns perfectly with the state’s Penang2030 vision.
“As we work towards a future that is sustainable, innovative, and inclusive, we recognise the vital role that education and cultural exchange play in achieving these goals.
“Themed ‘Opportunities, Synergies, Sustainability’, this conference, with its emphasis on research travel, offers a unique opportunity to merge tourism with education and culture.
“It fosters greater understanding and collaboration within the global community,” Wong said.
Wong expressed the state government’s delight in Penang being selected to host this forward-thinking conference.
“Penang provides a unique setting for the event, with its dual Unesco recognitions – the George Town Unesco World Heritage Site and the Penang Hill Unesco Biosphere Reserve.
“The blend of historical charm and natural beauty enhances Penang’s reputation as a premier destination for cultural and experiential tourism,” he said.
He noted that this year’s WRTC is especially significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, as well as the 11th anniversary of their comprehensive strategic partnership.
“Additionally, the state has been actively fostering high value-added MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) events to maximise Penang’s economic potential.
“In addition to WRTC 2024, the upcoming International Conference of Butterfly Exhibitions and Suppliers will be held from Nov 4 to 7, further showcasing Penang’s commitment to hosting world-class events,” Wong said.
Also present at the media conference were WRTO Singapore branch secretary-general Liang Wern Ling, Tech Dome Penang senior marcom manager Oun Sui Leng, Penang Tourist Guides Association president Clement Liang, Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm chief executive officer Joseph Goh, Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (Atap) vice-chairman Allen Tan, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Penang chapter chairman Carolyn Leong, and other tourism players.
Story and pix by Christopher Tan