Penang had the rare honour to host the 14th Conference on ASEAN-China People to People Friendship Organisations meet at the St Giles Wembley Hotel here.

The last time the conference was held in Malaysia was in Kuala Lumpur in 2009.

Member nations take turns to host the prestigious. This time around some 200 delegates attended the gathering held at the St Giles Wembley Hotel here.

The association was founded in 2006 with the focus to promote culture, tourism, sports, youth, and mutual relationships. They also aim to strengthen friendship and cooperation

Guest-of-honour was State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai who represented Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow at the launch ceremony.

In his address Wong welcomed delegates to the conference which is being held for the very first time in Penang.

“I welcome all delegates to Penang to the beautiful island. We share friendship and cooperation with China and ASEAN friends to foster cultural activities and cooperation

“Let us explore new opportunities for collaboration and mutual benefit,” added Wong.

Meanwhile, the President of Malaysia China Friendship Association Dato Abdul Majid Ahmad Khan added that it is an honour for Malaysia to play host for the second time since Kuala Lumpur in 2009.

“We are proud that Penang has been given the honour to host this event after the Covid-19 pandemic.

“This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative,” he added.

Also present H E Madam Gu Xiu Lian President The China-ASEAN Association, stakeholders and dignitaries from Thailand, the Philippines, Brune, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Singapore, Laos and Myanmar.