WRTC 2024 Closes on a High Note in Penang, Sets Stage for Singapore 2025

The World Research Travel Conference (WRTC) 2024 successfully concluded in Penang, Malaysia, marking a landmark event as the first WRTC gathering outside China.

Over four days, global experts, innovators, and thought leaders from the research tourism sector came together under the theme “Research Travel – Opportunities, Synergies, Sustainability.”

The event offered a unique opportunity to discuss the future of research and study tourism, with meaningful partnerships forged and bold ideas shared to advance this growing field.

A Platform for Knowledge Exchange and Future Vision

WRTC 2024 offered a fertile ground for collaboration and strategic dialogue on the future of research tourism. At the conference grand closing gala, held at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, Honorary President of the World Research Travel Organisation (Malaysia), expressed her optimism for the industry’s future.

Tan Sri Dato Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, Honorary President of the World Research Travel Organisation (Malaysia) addresses the delegates — Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, Honorary President of the World Research Travel Organisation (Malaysia) addresses the delegates

She remarked, “The World Research Travel Conference has become a valuable platform for knowledge-sharing and practical insights, enabling us to shape new opportunities in research tourism.” Her speech underscored the event’s impact in setting new directions for this specialised field.

Forging New Partnerships for Progress

The conference saw the signing of two strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), reinforcing WRTO’s commitment to collaboration in research travel. The first agreement was established with UNITECH Travel Innovation, represented by WRTO’s Dr. Tian Zhiqi and Chen Tao, which aimed to enhance travel innovation within the Asia Pacific region.

signing of MOU between WRTO (Dr. Tian Zhiqi on the right) and UNITECH Travel Innovation (Chen Tao)

A second MOU with China National Geographic Magazine Co., Ltd., signed by Dr. Tian for WRTO and Cai Huaye, marked another significant milestone. This partnership is expected to amplify WRTO’s vision by driving awareness and expanding research tourism initiatives across Asia through media engagement.

signing of MOU between WRTO (Dr. Tian Zhiqi on the right) and China National Geographic Magazine Co., Ltd. (Cai Huaye)

Introducing Inspiring New Research Travel Sites

WRTC 2024 also announced partnerships with a selection of unique international campsites, each offering valuable educational and cultural experiences. These collaborations included Yulin Future Camp Cultural Tourism Management Co., Ltd., Dunhuang Academy Mogao Academy, Qiaojia Courtyard Tourism Co., Ltd., and Yue Dong Dunhuang Research Travel Art Space.

WRTO announces partnerships with unique international campsites

These new partners will enrich the research travel experience, providing immersive environments for learning and exploration that align with WRTO’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

A Note from the Organising Chairman

Dato’ Sri Dr. Abdul Khani Daud, Organising Chairman of WRTC 2024, extended his heartfelt thanks to all who played a role in the successful conference. “Your dedication and support have been crucial to this event, creating a space for meaningful collaboration and innovation,” he said. His remarks reflected the spirit of unity and shared purpose that characterised WRTC 2024.

two Chinese musicians play Rasa Sayang on their traditional instruments

Passing the Torch to Singapore for WRTC 2025

The conference concluded with a ceremonial handover to Singapore, which will host WRTC 2025.

ceremonial handover of WRTC to Singapore (L-R) Dato’ Sri Dr. Abdul Khani Daud (Organising Chairman of the World Research Travel Conference 2024), Datuk Rashidi Hasbullah (Deputy President of World Research Travel Organisation, Malaysia Chapter), Mint Leong (Secretary General of WRTO Malaysia) & Ms. Liang Wern Ling (Secretary General of WRTO Singapore)

Ms. Liang Wern Ling, Secretary General of WRTO Singapore, accepted the honour, inviting the international research community to gather in Singapore next year. “As an international hub for education and a highly sought-after travel destination, Singapore stands ready to welcome the world to explore new horizons in research travel,” she said, reinforcing Singapore’s blend of multiculturalism, innovation, and global influence.