Penang Chosen as Venue for the 45th International Advertising Association (IAA) World Congress

During a press conference at KOMTAR today, the organizers of the IAA World Congress, along with co-host Penang state, expressed their enthusiasm and preparedness to host the 45th International Advertising Association (IAA) World Congress scheduled from March 6-8, 2024.

Projections estimate that the congress will draw up to 1000 attendees globally, with an anticipated economic impact of RM5.836 million for Penang.

The President of IAA Malaysia, Vice President of IAA Global, and Chairman of the World Congress, John D Chacko, highlighted the historical significance of the event as the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. The theme, “Brand: RE-CODE, for a Better World, Better Life,” reflects not only a convergence of ideas but also a celebration marking the 85th Anniversary of IAA Global, the 30th Anniversary of IAA Malaysia, and International Women’s Day.

Aligning with the Penang2030 vision, the Chief Minister of Penang, The Right Honourable Chow Kon Yeow, sees the Congress as an opportunity to showcase Penang’s investment potential and attract diverse investments. The strategic alignment aims to create a more resilient and dynamic economic landscape, fostering innovation, job creation, and sustainable development.

With over 30 C-suite speakers, the Congress promises valuable insights through mainstage sessions and panel discussions addressing critical issues in marketing, AI, and technology.

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of staying abreast of ongoing transformations and the impact of AI on the global landscape. Encouraging local businesses and organizations from various industries to participate, he stated that the Congress offers a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration, positioning Penang as a thriving hub for diverse industries.

The State Exco for Tourism & Creative Economy, The Honourable Wong Hon Wai, underscored the international recognition the IAA World Congress brings, strengthening Penang’s position as a leading hub for business events. He emphasized that the collaboration with global entities such as Google, Meta, WARC, ANA, Lions, SEEHER, BBC News, Media Prima, Celcomdigi, and iFlytek will elevate the Congress to new heights, reaching a broader audience and ensuring extensive media coverage.

The Congress falls within the HRD Corp claimable category under the public conference scheme, streamlining delegate attendance logistics through direct debiting from the company’s levy account, eliminating the need for upfront payments. Malaysian attendees are entitled to daily allowances, flight ticket reimbursement, accommodation, and land transport support.

In conclusion, the 45th IAA World Congress in Penang is poised to be a transformative event, not only for the advertising and marketing industry but also for the economic and innovative landscape of the region. The collaboration with global entities and the focus on diverse industries position Penang as a key player in the global tourism and creative industries, fostering knowledge exchange, networking, and collaborations that contribute substantially to economic growth.