The World Research Travel Organization (WRTO) has announced the World Research Travel Conference 2024, scheduled from 3rd to 7th November 2024, at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Penang, supported by the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB). This prestigious event will gather global experts, educators, industry leaders, and travel professionals to explore the future of research travel, enhance collaboration, and promote sustainable growth in this dynamic sector.

The conference is especially significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia and marks the 11th anniversary of their comprehensive strategic partnership. In honour of this milestone, the conference has invited China as the guest country for the first time, positioning the event as a key celebration of this enduring relationship. This initiative aims to deepen the cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations, strengthening mutual understanding and fostering collaboration in tourism, education, youth engagement, and marine ecology.

Penang, known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant tourism, and commitment to sustainable development, is set to welcome the World Research Travel Conference 2024. As a city that thrives on diversity and innovation, Penang is an ideal host for this prestigious gathering of global leaders in research travel. The state is committed to supporting events that contribute to the growth of international tourism and educational exchange, reflecting Penang’s status as a premier destination for conferences and exhibitions. The World Research Travel Conference 2024 aligns perfectly with Penang’s vision of fostering global connections and advancing sustainable tourism practices.

Research travel, which combines education and travel to create unique learning experiences, is gaining rapid traction worldwide as families increasingly seek enriching opportunities for their children. The World Research Travel Conference 2024 will spotlight the immense potential of this growing market, highlighting its educational value and capacity to meet diverse learning needs. The conference will also explore how cross-sector collaboration can create a more efficient and sustainable ecosystem for research travel, integrating diverse resources to promote the industry’s long-term growth.

Sustainability will be at the core of discussions, as the conference aims to promote environmentally responsible and socially conscious travel practices. Participants will explore strategies to foster sustainable development while adhering to principles of environmental protection and social responsibility, ensuring that research travel contributes positively to the growth of future generations and society at large.

The World Research Travel Conference 2024 is a pivotal event promoting high-quality development in global tourism and education sectors. Stakeholders and interested parties worldwide are invited to join this transformative conference in Penang. It promises to be a defining moment in advancing research travel and its impact on global education and sustainable tourism.