Penang, Malaysia– The World Research Travel Organization (WRTO) has announced that Penang will be the host city for the upcoming World Research Travel Conference 2024, scheduled from November 3 to 7 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre. Supported by the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB), this prestigious event will bring together international experts, educators, industry leaders, and travel professionals to explore the future of research travel, strengthen collaborations, and promote sustainable growth in this dynamic field.
The event will coincide with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia and the 11th anniversary of their comprehensive strategic partnership. To mark these milestones, China has been invited as a guest country for the first time, celebrating the enduring relationship between the two nations. Discussions will focus on cooperation in tourism, education, youth engagement, and marine ecology.
At a recent press conference, Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE), YB Wong Hon Wai, spoke about the significance of the upcoming conference. “Hosting the World Research Travel Conference aligns seamlessly with our Penang 2030 vision. As we strive towards a future that is sustainable, innovative, and inclusive, we recognize the critical role of education and cultural exchange in achieving these goals. This conference, with its focus on research travel, presents a unique opportunity to merge tourism with education and culture, fostering greater understanding and collaboration among the global community.”
YB Wong also emphasized the benefits of research travel, particularly for Penang. “Research travel, combining education and travel, is a rapidly growing trend worldwide. It is exciting to see how this conference will highlight the role of research travel in nurturing young minds, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and fostering deeper connections between our communities. The focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility within the conference’s objectives aligns well with our commitment to promoting green and sustainable tourism.”
Penang’s unique attributes make it an ideal location for the conference. “Penang, with its UNESCO World Heritage Site in George Town and the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve at Penang Hill, offers a unique backdrop for this event. These designations reflect the rich historical, cultural, and environmental significance of our state, providing a broader perspective for research travel, where participants can explore heritage conservation, biodiversity, and the fusion of history with modernity,” YB Wong highlighted. He also noted that Penang’s renowned culinary scene recognized globally, will add another dimension to the delegates’ experience, enhancing their cultural immersion.
During the event, YB Wong Hon Wai pointed out that this year’s conference is especially meaningful, given that it will celebrate 50 years of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations. “This provides an excellent platform to celebrate our enduring friendship and to strengthen cooperation between our countries in various fields, including tourism, education, culture, and youth engagement. It is recommended that this conference be listed as an important event for the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic ties.”
Mr. Ashwin also spoke at the press conference, expressing pride in Penang hosting this important global event. “This is a momentous occasion, as it marks the very first time this event is being held outside of China. We are truly honored that WRTO has selected Penang, and we are excited to welcome all of you to this conference, which will take place from the 3rd to the 7th of November at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre.” He added that the conference would feature over 1,200 delegates and 20 universities from around the world, engaging in meaningful discussions and collaborations that will shape the future of research travel.
The World Research Travel Conference will include a pre-conference tour of Penang, allowing delegates to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the state. This aligns with Penang’s vision of being a hub for cultural and experiential tourism, further enhancing the state’s international profile and fostering a deeper appreciation for its diverse heritage. Moreover, the event is expected to have a significant economic impact, with the Estimated Economic Impact (EEI) projected at RM9.76 million.
YB Wong added that hosting such events is crucial for Penang’s continued development as a major destination for high-quality MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. “Penang has been actively cultivating high value-added MICE tourism to maximize the economic benefits of these events. In addition to the upcoming World Research Travel Conference 2024, the International Conference of Butterfly Exhibitions & Suppliers (scheduled from November 4 to 7, 2024) demonstrates Penang’s commitment to hosting world-class events that contribute significantly to our local economy.”
He also emphasized Penang’s readiness for future events: “The Penang Waterfront Convention Centre, set to be completed next year, will further solidify Penang’s position as a premier MICE destination, attracting more international conferences and exhibitions.”
Sustainability is at the heart of the World Research Travel Conference, and this theme resonates strongly with Penang’s vision. Mr. Ashwin stated, “The conference will explore how research travel can merge education and travel in ways that foster environmental stewardship and cultural exchange, ensuring that these practices contribute positively to the growth of our society.”
Mr. Ashwin concluded by thanking WRTO for choosing Penang and emphasizing Penang’s ambition for the conference: “Penang is proud to support conferences that align with our commitment to sustainability, education, and cultural exchange. The World Research Travel Conference exemplifies this by connecting people across borders to share ideas, inspire action, and foster new ways of thinking about research and travel.”
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The World Research Travel Conference 2024 is set to be a landmark event, driving growth in the tourism and education sectors. Stakeholders and interested parties from around the world are invited to participate in this transformative event, which promises to be an important step forward for research travel, global education, and sustainable tourism practices.
