THE World Research Travel Conference (WRTC) 2024, making its inaugural presence in Penang, is here to promote the training of international research travel talent, the development of research travel bases, innovation in curriculum systems, and the deep integration of global network.
Attracting over 600 delegates from 13 regions worldwide, the event brings together participants from China, Hong Kong, Macau, Chinese Taipei, Australia, the United States, Germany, Korea, Japan, Myanmar, Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia.
The five-day conference is jointly organised by the World Research Travel Organisation (WRTO) and supported by the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) and the Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the WRTC aligns seamlessly with our Penang2030 vision.
“As we strive towards a sustainable, innovative and inclusive future, we recognise the critical role of education and cultural exchange in achieving these goals.
“This conference, with its focus on research travel, presents a unique opportunity to merge tourism with education and culture, fostering greater understanding and collaboration among the global community.
“This year’s conference theme, “Opportunity, Synergy, and Sustainability’, encapsulates the spirit of progress, unity, and resilience that defines our industry today.
“This theme underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in seizing vast opportunities.
“By prioritising sustainable development, we can secure a better future,” Wong said in his speech during the opening ceremony of the WRTC 2024 at Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Bayan Lepas on Nov 5.
Also present during the event were PCEB chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran and WRTO chairman Franz Wolfgang Eder.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud