By V. Sivaji
Some 1,000 delegates from all over the world attended the launch of the 45th International Advertising Association (IAA) World Congress being held at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre here.
The event has drawn attention to the comprehensive agenda covering sustainability, creativity, technology, AI, inclusivity, and diversity among other topics.
Present to launch the glittering ceremony was Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow along with State Exco for Tourism YB Wong Hon Wai to represent the Penang state government.
Also present was the organising chairman of IAA World Congress, John D Chacko along with IAA World Congress president Sasan Saedi, Datin S Barathi from Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI) and Ashwin Gunasekeran, chief executive officer of Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).
“The IAA World Congress has brought together professionals from advertising, marketing, technology, media, digital, public relations agencies, education and research firms spanning diverse industries.
“With this, I am optimistic that it will unlock new investment opportunities and contribute to the robust economic growth of our state.
He also highlighted that the IAA World Congress perfectly integrates with the Penang2030 vision where key emphasis is also placed on amplifying industry engagement efforts.
“By 2030, Penang’s goal is to emerge as the most environmentally conscious state in Malaysia, prioritising a sustainable economy, forward-thinking governance and development centered on sustainability.” added Chow.
Meanwhile, the congress has attracted approximately 450 international delegates from 26 countries, along with over 500 participants from Malaysia, contributing an estimated economic impact of 6.276 million for Penang.
The three-day congress features insightful sessions, panel discussions, and workshops with a distinguished lineup of over 30 C-suite speakers. Industry titans, thought leaders, and innovators from renowned entities such as the United Nations, Google, Meta, Cannes Lions, Petal Ads, universities, governments, and global agency heads are among the speakers.
