Penang, 4 November 2024 — The International Conference of Butterfly Exhibitors and Suppliers (ICBES) 2024 has officially commenced at the Ascott Gurney Penang, marking a significant event in global conservation efforts. Hosted by the Penang State Government in collaboration with the International Association of Butterfly Exhibitors and Suppliers (IABES) and Entopia, this year’s conference has drawn nearly 100 experts, exhibitors, and suppliers from 20 countries, including the United States, Canada, Germany, and Japan.
In his opening speech, YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang’s State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE), warmly welcomed the international delegates, emphasizing Penang’s commitment to nature and sustainability. “On behalf of the Penang State Government, I express our deepest appreciation to IABES and Entopia for organizing this important event,” Wong said. He highlighted that Penang’s rich natural heritage is crucial to the state’s tourism and that conservation-centered events like ICBES enhance Penang’s reputation as a forward-looking destination.
Wong also emphasized the importance of butterflies as markers of environmental health, emphasizing the need for conservation in the face of biodiversity loss and climate change. “Butterflies are essential markers of the condition of our ecosystems; they are much more than just delicate animals. We can learn a lot about the condition of the environment from their presence—or lack thereof,” he said. He praised the professionals in attendance for their commitment to conservation and the motivation they provide for coming generations.
In their speeches, Mr. Joseph Goh, CEO of Entopia, and Ms. Kimberly Kelly, President of IABES, reaffirmed their organizations’ dedication to raising awareness and conserving butterflies via cooperation and education.
The three-day conference will feature sessions on sustainable breeding programs, innovative exhibit design, and conservation strategies to preserve butterfly populations worldwide. By fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge, ICBES 2024 aims to empower its attendees to make a lasting impact on butterfly conservation, education, and environmental stewardship.
As delegates from around the world engage in discussions and workshops, Penang’s role as a leader in eco-tourism and biodiversity preservation is brought to the fore, aligning the state’s goals with those of the international conservation community.
