By V. Sivaji
Delegates of the Penang International Travel Exchange (PITE) were treated to a welcoming dinner at the Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City with an array of local favourites.
Some 150 delegates and officials from 14 countries namely , China, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Brunei, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Romania, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States attended the gathering.
The dinner was organised by the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).
Guest-of-honour was the Member of Parliament for Bagan YB Lim Guan Eng who was accompanied by the chief executive officer of PCEB, Ashwin Gunasekeran upon arrival.
Also present was Kumaran Krishan and the State assemblyman for Bagan and Dato Khoo Boo Lim, MAH vice president.
Meanwhile, YB Wong Yuee Harng represented the State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.
In his address, Lim welcomed the participants to the Pearl of the Orient.
“Butterworth is the future city for Penang and the opening of the Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City is a testament to this. I also wish delegates an enjoyable and memorable time in Penang”, said Lim.
Also present was the general manager of Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City, Rizwan Izham Zain.
Earlier, Ashwin in his address, thanked Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City for hosting the dinner.
“PITE was held virtually due to the pandemic but now with physical presence, has grown bigger and larger. You will get to experience Penang’s diverse culture and tradition and have a fantastic evening”, said Ashwin.
Guests were treated to a fine selection of local favourites while being entertained by the three-piece “Wonders” band.
The Wonders band in action