SOME 1,000 international delegates will gather in Penang for the 57th IFLA World Congress and IFLA World Landscape Architects Summit 2020 in August next year.
Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia (ILAM) president Assoc Prof Dr Suhardi Maulan said the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) has chosen George Town as the venue for the IFLA2020 for its rich history, architectural and cultural heritage, urban revitalisation efforts, lush botanical and natural parks and vibrant street food scene.
Dr Suhardi gave Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow a briefing on the programmes to be held for the two events from Aug 13 to 15, 2020 when he led a 20-member team in their meeting in Komtar today.
This is the second time the events will be held in Malaysia since 2007. The opening ceremony and keynote sessions will be held at St Giles Wembley Hotel.
Dr Suhardi added that the IFLA2020 summit would focus on future concerns and pursue landscape architecture-based solutions for social and environmental issues.
Chow pledged to assist them with some funding.
“As the two events are very good, the Penang government will offer its full support,” Chow said.
Also present were state Tourism Development, Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, IFLA president James Hayter, Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran, National Landscape Department of the Ministry of Federal Territories director-general Rotina Mohd Daik.
Story by Danny Ooi
Pix by Alissala Thian