GEORGE TOWN: Penang sees its hosting of the 45th International Advertising Association (IAA) World Congress as an opportunity to showcase the state's investment potential, attract diverse investments and contribute to the economic vibrancy of this region.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said, with the IAA World Congress' presence in Penang, it marked a significant milestone in solidifying the state's global standing and presence.
Since its inception in 1938, the IAA World Congress has graced cities such as New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, Sydney, Beijing, Dubai, and even Moscow.
"Now, with its presence in Penang, it marked a significant milestone in solidifying the state's global standing and presence.
"The lAA World Congress has brought together professionals from advertising, marketing, technology, media, digital, public relations agencies, education, and research firms spanning diverse industries.
"With this, I am optimistic that it will unlock new investment opportunities and contribute to the robust economic growth of our state," he said when opening the IAA World Congress at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre here today.
Present was the 45th IAA World Congress chairman John D. Chacko.
About 1,000 participants from more than 30 countries attended the three-day congress. Five hundred of them are from Malaysia.
With that, enabling a staggering Estimated Economic Impact (EEl) of RM5.84 million to Penang.
Media Prima is the local media partner for the event while BBC News is the international media partner.
The three-day congress features insightful sessions, panel discussions and workshops with a distinguished lineup of over 70 speakers.
Industry titans, thought leaders, and innovators from renowned entities such as the United Nations, Google, Meta, Cannes Lions, Petal Ads, universities, governments and global agency heads are among the speakers.
Chow said as Penang embraced the honour of hosting the 45th IAA World Congress, themed "Brand: RE-CODE, for a Better World, Better Life", the state recognised that this theme aligned seamlessly with Penang's vision for a sustainable and inclusive future.
"This congress serves as a catalyst for economic growth, fostering collaboration and propelling sustainable development in Penang and beyond.
"By strategically aligning with the Penang2030 vision, we aim to create a more resilient and dynamic economic landscape, fostering innovation, job creation, and sustainable development.
"This endeavour reflects our forward-thinking approach in ensuring that Penang remains not only an attractive destination for traditional investments but also a thriving hub for diverse industries, promoting long-term economic vitality.
"The hosting of the IAA World Congress is not just a congress… it is a strategic move that will propel Penang further onto the global stage," he added.
Meanwhile, Chacko said the IAA World Congress emphasised its diverse content and global significance.
He said the congress would cover contents on sustainability, creativity, technology, Al, inclusivity, DEI and many more.
"The focus on inclusivity and gender equality on the final day of the congress, coincides with International Women's Day.
"Sessions will explore the role of innovation and technology in advancing gender equality and inclusivity, underscoring diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&l) as catalysts for creativity and innovation in branding, businesses, and marketing," he said.