PENANG is set to welcome thousands of delegates as it plays host to the 18th World Hainanese Congress, organised by the Federation of Hainan Association Malaysia, from Nov 14 to Nov 16, at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the event marks another milestone for Penang as an international hub for cultural exchange and business events.
He explained that the hosting of the congress reflects not only the Hainanese community’s unity and commitment, but also Penang’s growing reputation as a leading destination for major international gatherings.
“The Hainanese community in Malaysia has demonstrated great unity and dedication, and we are proud that this significant international event will be held right here in Penang,” Wong said during a press conference.
He added that Penang and Hainan share a deep historical bond dating back to the 19th century, when early Hainanese immigrants made significant contributions to the state’s economy, education, and multicultural development.
“Having the World Hainanese Congress held in Penang is not only a celebration of cultural heritage, but also a meaningful homecoming that strengthens the bonds among Hainanese communities worldwide,” he said.
The 18th World Hainanese Congress is expected to draw delegates from Hainan Province in China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taipei, Singapore, Brunei, Thailand, Indonesia, the United States, and Australia.
Wong said the influx of visitors will bring a boost to Penang’s tourism and hospitality sectors, including hotels, restaurants, transport, and retail.
“In the post-pandemic era, hosting an international congress of this scale reinforces Penang’s position as a preferred destination for both tourism and business events,” he said.
He noted that Penang and Hainan Province established a friendly state-province relationship in 2013 through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), followed by another MoU in 2017 between Penang Island and Sanya City to strengthen city-level ties.
“These friendly city ties have served as a cultural bridge, fostering long-standing exchanges and genuine friendship between both sides,” Wong added.
The state government, he said, will work closely with the organisers to promote Penang’s heritage, cuisine, arts, and sustainable tourism initiatives throughout the event.
“We encourage the inclusion of cultural performances, guided tours, and heritage showcases so our guests can truly experience what makes George Town a UNESCO World Heritage Site,” he said.
He also congratulated the Federation of Hainan Association Malaysia for taking on the role of host, assuring the organisers of the Penang government’s full support.
Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran congratulated the Federation of Hainan Association Malaysia for securing the honour of hosting the 18th World Hainanese Congress in Penang, marking the event’s return to Malaysia after more than two decades.
He said the congress is expected to draw over 2,000 delegates from nearly 20 countries and regions, making it one of the largest association gatherings in Penang this year.
The Federation of Hainan Association Malaysia president, Datuk Yong Ket How, said this year’s congress will be held under the theme “Hainan Free Trade Port: Building a New Bridge with ASEAN,” which reflects the growing collaboration between Hainan and the ASEAN region.
“About 2,000 delegates from Asia, the Americas, Europe, and Australia are expected to attend, representing various sectors including politics, business, academia, and the arts.
“The congress aims to serve as a global platform for networking, cultural exchange, and future cooperation among Hainanese communities worldwide,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat