The International Conference and Exhibition on World Cultures 2023 Kuala Lumpur to embrace global diversity and highlight sustainability in tourism
“ Culture serves as the central theme of ICWC . When we talk about world cultures , we aim to gather countries from all over the globe to promote and share their cultures at the exhibition . We have targeted more than 50 countries to showcase their cultures .”
– Azmi Mustapha out as a distinct element .
INTERVIEW
12 | JULY-AUGUST , 2023
Making culture a tourism asset
The International Conference and Exhibition on World Cultures 2023 Kuala Lumpur to embrace global diversity and highlight sustainability in tourism
LIKE A blossoming flower in a vibrant garden , culture adds beauty and richness to the human experience . Recognising its significance , Malaysia will host the International Conference and Exhibition on World Cultures 2023 ( ICWC ‘ 23 ), positioning itself as a cultural hub and championing the preservation of this precious essence of human existence .
Organised by UDS Media Sdn Bhd and supported by the Ministry of Tourism , Arts and Culture Malaysia ( MOTAC ), ICWC ‘ 23 is on Sept 7-10 , 2023 , at the MATRADE Exhibition and Convention Centre , Kuala Lumpur .
“ We believe Malaysia has much to offer as a cultural hub . As a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country , Malaysia showcases a wide and varied diversity of cultures . The beauty of Malaysian society lies in the mutual respect and enjoyment of each other ’ s cultures through cultural celebrations . For instance , Malays may visit a Chinese household to experience Chinese traditions , and vice versa ,” said Azmi Mustapha , President of ICWC .
“ Culture serves as the central theme of ICWC . When we talk about world cultures , we aim to gather countries from all over the globe to promote and share their cultures at the exhibition . We have targeted more than 50 countries to showcase their cultures . Moreover , these countries will also actively contribute to activities and programmes such as cultural dances , fashion shows , the Kebaya competition , cooking competitions , and more .”
He said the objective was to display
various cultures and foster mutual learning and understanding . The essence of the event lies in humanity coming together in an all-inclusive setting where every culture is valued and no culture is left out .
LEARNING FROM EACH OTHER
Through ICWC , a range of segments are organised , encompassing conferences , keynote speeches delivered by renowned speakers , panel discussions , and special feature presentations . While workshops , keynotes , and panel discussions are standard components of similar events , Azmi said the special feature presentation stood
“ Culture serves as the central theme of ICWC . When we talk about world cultures , we aim to gather countries from all over the globe to promote and share their cultures at the exhibition . We have targeted more than 50 countries to showcase their cultures .”
– Azmi Mustapha out as a distinct element .
The unique feature presentation offers a platform for invited individuals to share their insights , including cultural festival and event organisers and community-based tourism representatives , such as those involved in Thaipusam .
“ Let ’ s take Thaipusam , for example . It initially started as a small religious programme , but now it attracts over one million visitors . How did it become like that ? The answer lies in the preservation of Thaipusam as a festival and tradition . We recognise it as a major cultural heritage in Malaysia ,” Azmi elaborated .
Allotted a 20-minute time slot , these selected individuals will enlighten attendees and a broader audience about their respective events , discussing their festivals ’ origins , growth , and impact . This exchange of knowledge and understanding provides valuable insights for attendees , including organisers and cultural enthusiasts , and fosters the development of culture as a tourism asset .
“ For the exhibition part , when participants come , it ’ s not just about cultural shows ; it also involves business people . Culture encompasses various areas . Travel agents from other countries can visit Malaysia to explore travel agencies that promote or try to introduce new tourism products . From there , they can learn from each other , and that will create business and commerce ,” Azmi shared .
He mentioned that unique Malaysian foods such as roti canai had the potential to capture the interest of chefs worldwide . These chefs might introduce these delightful dishes to their restaurants in countries like South America or Spain . Azmi further highlighted that the film industry operated similarly . Film producers , for example , may visit a place to understand the show ’ s essence and explore the prospect of integrating elements from specific locations into their documentaries .
PROMOTING ESG AND MUSLIM-FRIENDLY TOURISM
“ ICWC also aims to serve as a platform for people to discuss ESG - environmental , social , and governance . This aspect is of utmost importance in the context of cultural tourism . We must prioritise environmental friendliness and sustainability while the government simultaneously strives to promote and regulate the industry , particularly concerning cultural sites ,” Azmi added .
Touching on Muslim-friendly tourism , he emphasised the attendance of hotel operators from different countries at ICWC to promote their offerings . These operators , when visiting Malaysia , may select Muslim-friendly accommodations . Their experience may prompt them to consider the significance of catering to this particular segment and acknowledge the potential opportunities it presents . Consequently , Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality are indirectly promoted to the ICWC participants .
“ These attendees will gain valuable insights not only within the premises of ICWC but also from outside ICWC ,” said Azmi .
He pointed out that Muslim-friendly tourism also included the aspect of Muslim women-friendly tourism , indicating that they are closely connected . Azmi emphasised the importance of Malaysia being welcoming and accommodating to Muslim women and prioritising creating an environment that supports and promotes friendly tourism towards women in general . — R & R