By V. Sivaji
For the very first time, the 45th International Advertising Association (IAA) World Congress will be held in Penang from March 6 to 8, 2024 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre.
As a run-up to the prestigious event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony and networking session was held at the Amari SPICE Penang.
The ceremony was represented by John D Chacko, president IAA Malaysia and organising chairman of the 45th IAA World Congress and Mr Soffian Mohammed Amin, the Chief Programmes Officer of HRD Corp.
Present to witness the occasion was State Exco for Tourism And Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.
He was accompanied by Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran.
The hosting of the 45th International Advertising Association (IAA) World Congress 2024, marks a historic milestone as the first time this prestigious event will be held in Southeast Asia.
The event is co-hosted by IAA Malaysia, the Penang State EXCO Office for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE) and the Penang Conference and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).
Also present was the organising committee members including Omar Shaari, Milan Agnihotri, Sailendra Kanagasundram, Gary Tay, Pat Wahid, Amy Chia, the PCO Project Heads and members of the Congress Secretariat.
“A new dynamic is unfolding. The convergence of social, economic, and climate crises, along with rapid technological advancements has created a new reality for brands and businesses to navigate. Companies must adapt and reshape their entire operating models.
“The urgency to address climate change has become a focal point to reduce environmental impact and ensure long-term resilience. Social issues such as inequality, diversity, and inclusion have gained significant attention from customers. Technological advancements like AI continue to disrupt industries, bringing both opportunities and challenges. We invite you to participate in this Congress where we will share best practices, case studies, and new frameworks of how creativity and technology can build significant value and enable brands and businesses to become a force for good”, said Chacko during his speech.
Meanwhile, Wong said in his address that they are anticipating the participation of 1,200 delegates from around the world.
“We are not merely hosting an event; we are creating a platform for learning, exchanging ideas, innovation, and collaboration. With a stellar international lineup of global leaders, this Congress transcends borders, offering an opportunity for us to showcase Penang’s potential as a hub for creativity, marketing technology, tourism, and economic growth” he added.
The objective of this networking event was not just an opportunity for industry leaders to converge but an exclusive chance for partners and sponsors to align their brands and businesses with excellence and innovation.
An exclusive sponsorship offer was announced at this event. As the host of the first-ever International Advertising Association (IAA) World Congress in South East Asia, partners and sponsors will enjoy unprecedented exposure on a global stage. The event is expected to draw the attention of industry leaders, decision-makers, and influencers worldwide, providing partners and sponsors with a unique platform to showcase their brands on an international scale.
With META and Google on board as sponsoring partners, alongside the Congress International Media partner BBC Studios, the Congress guarantees a stellar lineup of 30+ global C-level speakers comprising the United Nations, Federal and State ministers, government agencies, Global AI experts and mavens, unicorns and changemakers, consulting firms, MNCs, heads of global advertising agencies, brand custodians, academicians and many more.
Delegates can expect to be inspired and informed by insights from the brightest minds in the industry, gaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving landscape of Marketing, Marketing Communications, Business, Sustainability, ESG, DE&I, AI, and emerging Technology.
The Congress will also recognize and celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th.
The Congress is not merely a platform for discourse but also an opportunity for delegates to glean insights from top global minds. The wealth of knowledge and experience shared by industry leaders will provide delegates with valuable perspectives, innovative strategies, and a deeper understanding of emerging trends.
Recognizing the importance of professional development, the Congress is fully HRD Corp claimable under the public conference scheme. Delegates can leverage this opportunity to enhance their skills, stay abreast of industry advancements, and contribute to their organization’s growth, all while benefiting from HRD Corp’s claimable scheme, subject to HRD Corp terms and conditions.
