Malaysia takes leading role in uniting the world through ICWC ‘ 23 to tackle global cultural tourism challenges growth
22
Event
@ Halal | JULY-AUGUST . 2023
Showcasing the world ’ s unique cultures
Malaysia takes leading role in uniting the world through ICWC ‘ 23 to tackle global cultural tourism challenges growth
International Conference and Exhibition on World Cultures 2023 Kuala Lumpur
THE WORLD Travel & Tourism Council ( WTTC ) has identified tourism as one of the world ’ s largest industries , generating significant employment and contributing to global GDP . Before the Covid-19 pandemic , tourism accounted for 10.3 per cent of all jobs , employing 333 million people , and contributed 10.3 per cent of the global GDP , amounting to US $ 9.6 trillion .
However , even before that , the cultural and heritage tourism sector faced numerous challenges , further amplified by the pandemic .
To address the challenges faced globally in sustainably conserving and marketing cultural tourism , which can benefit the country ’ s economic , social , and environmental growth , UDS Media Sdn Bhd took the initiative to organise the inaugural International Conference and Exhibition on World Cultures 2023 ( ICWC ‘ 23 ) in September .
UDS Media Sdn Bhd , with the support of the Ministry of Tourism , Arts and Culture Malaysia ( MOTAC ) and Datuk Saraya Arbi , MOTAC Secretary-General , announced that Malaysia would play host to the first ICWC ‘ 23 as an initiative to unite the unique cultures of the world under one roof to elevate the economic , social , environmental , and gastronomic growth of the global tourism industry .
Azmi Mustapha , the President of ICWC , said : “ Tourism is a key pillar in the economy that creates employment and opportunities for every nation , and culture is one of the main driving forces for tourism growth .
“ An event such as the ICWC ‘ 23 is a great opportunity for cultural promotion between nations . Through this event , we can aid in increasing cultural awareness as a whole while at the same time , learning , educating , and exchanging knowledge of different cultures .”
PRESERVING AND PROMOTING CULTURAL HERITAGE
During the four-day event , ICWC ‘ 23 will feature an International Conference with renowned speakers addressing various topics related to preserving and promoting cultural heritage .
These discussions will cover both tangible and intangible aspects of cultural heritage . Additionally , the conference will focus on strategies to enhance the economic and social well-being of all sectors involved in tourism . Emphasis will be on promoting communitybased tourism and sustainable tourism development .
The conference will also provide unique slots for delegates to present their expertise in cultural work and academic research . This platform will allow them to share their experiences and insights while showcasing upcoming cultural events and projects to potential sponsors . This offers an opportunity to secure financial support for their initiatives .
ICWC ‘ 23 ’ s World Class Exhibition is
Azmi Mustapha , the President of ICWC .
An event such as the ICWC ‘ 23 is a great opportunity for cultural promotion between nations . Through this event , we can aid in increasing cultural awareness as a whole while at the same time , learning , educating , and exchanging knowledge of different cultures .”
– Azmi Mustapha expected to welcome more than 10,000 visitors from all across the globe to enjoy the best distinctive cultural offerings from over 50 countries through 280 exhibits , six country pavilions , 20 traditional massage stations , 30 cultural performances , and four cultural and artistic exhibitions .
Attendees might also find themselves spoilt for choice as they can indulge in the myriad of local and traditional cuisines from all across the globe . In doing so , ICWC ‘ 23 can celebrate diversity and promote healthy cultural exchange while illustrating effective cultural tourism promotional strategies through the various carefully designed exhibits .
PARTICIPATION FROM OTHER COUNTRIES
The launch event of ICWC ‘ 23 , held at Pangsapuri , Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur saw the participation of numerous countries through its high commissions , consulates , and embassies based in Malaysia ; these include – Argentina , Ukraine , Timor-Leste , Philippines , Namibia , Kenya , Brunei , Brazil , Maldives , Tajikistan , Iran , Eswatini , Lao , Romania , Senegal , Ghana , Azerbaijan , Morocco , Lebanon , Kuwait , Qatar , Iraq , Russia , Peru , and the European Union .
The presence of these respective leaders and representatives coming together as one under the ICWC ‘ 23 initiative filled the attendees with pride for having Malaysia take the leading role in uniting the world through culture .
Azmi expressed his gratitude : “ I am honoured to see so many ambassadors , high commissioners , counsellors , and other representatives from worldwide as we launch ICWC ‘ 23 for the first time .
“ As a country well-known for its cultural and traditional values and harmonious multi-ethnic nature , I believe it is befitting that Malaysia spearhead events such as this to unite the world for a common goal .”
“ Many cultural and heritage sites suffered tremendously during Covid-19 , and it is now the opportunity for us to do all within our capabilities to preserve them for future generations . At ICWC ‘ 23 , we look forward to being a medium for all countries to showcase their unique cultures and better understand how to capitalise on economic development through cultural tourism without compromising heritage values ,” he added .
ICWC ’ 23 is on Sept 7-10 , 2023 at the MATRADE Exhibition and Convention Centre . The event is supported by MOTAC and Yayasan Hasanah and partnered with the Ministry of Tourism , Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak .
Sponsors of ICWC ‘ 23 include local brands such as Pops Malaya , Life Sauces , Nixo Innovations Sdn Bhd , LWI BLUE , and Richiamo Coffee . –