By V. Sivaji
Some 100 delegates from all over the world have converged in Penang for the International Conference of Butterfly Exhibitors and Suppliers (ICBES) 2024.
Among the main aims of the gathering is to explore more sustainable breeding programs to advancements in educational exhibits, the exchange of ideas and contribute to a more sustainable and impactful future of the field.
Present at the launching ceremony of the conference was State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai along with Ms Kimberly Kelly, president the International Association of Butterfly and Exhibitors & Suppliers (IABES).
The participants are from 20 countries across the globe, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, France, Spain, Switzerland, Türkiye, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Kenya, the Philippines, Japan, Singapore, China Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia and Malaysia.
Also in attendance was David Goh, founder of Entopia, their chief executive officer, Joseph Goh and Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) CEO, Ashiwn Gunasekeran.
The conference is underway for the next four days at the Ascott Gurney Penang.
In his welcoming address, Wong highlighted the importance of the role of butterflies in nature.
“I am glad to join you here today for this remarkable gathering of minds and hearts dedicated to butterfly conservation and education.
“We are all united by a shared passion for butterflies, conservation, and the natural world. Our tourism industry is deeply intertwined with our natural and cultural heritage, and events like ICBES play a significant role in highlighting Penang’s commitment to both.
“Entopia, as one of our state’s most iconic attractions, exemplifies this by showcasing not only the beauty of butterflies but also the critical importance of conservation. Butterflies are much more than delicate creatures that capture our imagination-they are vital indicators of the health of our ecosystems.
“Their presence, or absence, can tell us a great deal about the state of the environment. As we face the growing challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, the work you all do-whether through exhibits, research, or conservation programs-becomes ever more vital”, said Wong.
He also praised their efforts to ensure that future generations will not only experience the beauty of butterflies.
“From sustainable breeding programs to advancements in educational exhibits, the exchange of ideas here will contribute to a more sustainable and impactful future for this field”, said Wong.
He also joined the other dignitaries to perform the launching gimmick to declare the conference officially open.
The delegates will also visit the various tourist attractions in the state and take in the heritage and cultural sights available in Penang.
Launch gimmick
Acá en Panamá estamos muy interesados en desarrollar este tipo de proyectos en las comunidades de extrema pobreza que viven colindantes con las áreas protegidas.