BY KHIRTINI K KUMARAN

This year ' s theme, " The Rise of AI-Driven Health, Wellness, Spa and Cultural Tourism Industries ", resonated throughout the event, showcasing innovative approaches that merge modern technology with age-old practices.

MALAYSIA-CHINA CONNECTION

The event also successfully promoted bilateral cooperation that not only fosters economic growth but also enriches the cultural ties between the two nations.

Malaysian Investment Development Authority ' s( MIDA) Healthcare & Education Division Director Wahida Abdul Rahman highlighted the deep-rooted partnership between Malaysia and China, which has evolved beyond mere trade and investment into a relationship based on mutual progress and cultural appreciation.

" China stands as Malaysia ' s largest trading partner for the 16th consecutive year," Wahida stated, revealing that total trade between the two countries reached over RM500 billion in 2024.

This robust economic relationship is further highlighted by a year-on-year increase of 5.3 per cent in trade as of March 2025. Wahida emphasised the substantial influx of investments from China across various sectors, including advanced manufacturing, digital technology, and green energy.

CONVERGENCE OF HEALTH AND TECHNOLOGY

According to Wahida, the theme of the forum captures the essence of innovation during this transformative era.

" AI is already changing the way we understand and deliver healthcare. AI is opening up new ways to improve the quality of life and make healthcare more efficient, more accessible, and more responsive to individuals."

" Malaysia, with its unique cultural mix and growing wellness infrastructure, is ready to meet that demand."

EMPOWERING INSIGHTS: Wahida Abdul Rahman shares her insights on the transformative potential of AI in healthcare during her address

CULTURAL WISDOM: Ng Po Kok emphasises the fusion of technology and tradition in enhancing health and wellbeing

She further highlighted the rapid growth of global wellness tourism, projected to reach US $ 1.35 trillion by 2028, noting that travellers now seek meaningful experiences that support their health and personal growth.

" Malaysia, with its unique cultural mix and growing wellness infrastructure, is ready to meet that demand," she affirmed.

This sentiment encapsulated the forum ' s mission to explore innovative approaches to wellness that merge modern technology with age-old practices.

PLATFORM FOR COLLABORATION

The forum gathered over 150 delegates, including prominent political and business leaders, industry associations, academics, and crossborder investors from both Malaysia and

China. This diverse assembly created valuable opportunities for networking across various sectors, including traditional Chinese medicine, eco-tourism, and the agri-food sector.

Exhibitors included 13 leading enterprises from Yunnan, China, showcasing a variety of products that illustrate the convergence of AI and wellness. Attendees explored offerings such as Chinese herbal medicine, smart medical equipment, premium coffee, and natural skincare, reflecting emerging trends in health and wellness tourism.

A standout feature of the forum was the Traditional Chinese Medicine( TCM) Wellness Zone, hosted by the Federation of Chinese Physicians and Acupuncturists Association of Malaysia( FCPAAM).

This area offered free consultations, body constitution assessments, and acupuncture demonstrations, significantly raising public awareness of TCM ' s benefits.

VOICES OF LEADERSHIP

The opening ceremony featured impactful speeches from key industry leaders.

Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce President Loo Kok Seong emphasised the critical role of trade, culture, and health in modern society, stating that these sectors support national development and enhance the quality of life for citizens.

Meanwhile, FCPAAM President Professor Dr Ng Po Kok emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating that it encapsulated the era of change and innovation, merging cutting-edge technology with cultural enrichment.

VIP attendees included representatives from Tourism Malaysia, the Malaysia Association of Wellness & Spa( MAWSPA), and the Yunnan Malaysia China Cultural Communication Co. Ltd., all underscoring the event ' s importance in fostering bilateral relations.

The event took place on Aug 1, 2025, at the Mercure Hotel Kuala Lumpur Trion, organised by Forever GACC Sdn. Bhd. in collaboration with several key associations.

It served as a vital platform for integrating technology into traditional industries, promoting the internationalisation of SMEs, and enhancing bilateral cooperation in the health and tourism sectors.- The HEALTH