By V. Sivaji
The 4th World Research Travel Conference(WRTC) is currently underway at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre here till Thursday, November 7, 2024.
The conference brings together 600 delegates from the tourism, education and research sectors from 13 countries in attendance.
Among the delegates are from China, Hong Kong, Macau, Chinese Taipei, Australia, United States, Germany, Korea, Japan, Myanmar, Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia.
State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai officiated the gathering in the presence of Prof Yang Zhen Zi, Executive Chairman of World Research Travel Organization, Tan Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, Honorary President of World Research Travel Organisation, Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer, Ashwin Gunasekeran, Dato Sri Dr Abdul Khani Daud, Organising Chair of WRTC 2024 among others.
The conference which is being organized by the World Research Travel Organization (WRTO) is also in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia. This is the first time the conference is being held outside of China.
Wong in his address, expressed his great pleasure to welcome the delegates to Penang for the grand opening of the 4th World Research Travel Conference 2024.
“I am delighted that World Research Travel Conference 2024 has chosen Penang, a city with a rich history and diverse culture, as its first international venue to venture beyond China. This provides an excellent platform for strengthening cooperation in tourism, education, culture, and youth exchanges.
“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 prioritizing sustainable development, we can secure a better future”, said Wong.
He also added that the focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility within the conference’s objectives also aligns well with the commitment to promoting green and sustainable tourism.
“As demand for international education grows and Penang’s infrastructure continues to develop, educational tourism holds great potential.
The dignitaries later performed the traditional drums ceremony to mark the launch of the conference.
Other highlights included the drum performance and multicultural dance performance from a local school in Penang while the China Intangible Cultural Heritage Shaolin Baduanjin performed a martial art performance.
Among the exhibitors are Resorts World Sentosa, Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm, DurianBB and several educational institutions from China.
