PETALING JAYA: The 11th World Fujian Convention, which Malaysia will host again after 28 years, is expected to atttract 3,500 delegates, aiming to strengthen familial bonds, promote mutual development, and facilitate deep exchanges among overseas Fujianese communities.
Organised by the Federation of Hokkien Associations of Malaysia (TFHAM) on November 8 and 9, the delegates will include local and international attendees from over 20 countries.
This includes those from the United States, Canada, various European nations, Australia, New Zealand, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Taiwan, and Asean countries.
Additionally, it anticipates around 2,000 local Fujianese and organisational representatives.
The event has been held every three years in different countries since 1994, and finally returns to Malaysia after it was last hosted in the country on 1996.
TFHAM president Tan Sri Lim Hock San said this highly anticipated event aims to strengthen familial bonds, promote mutual development, and facilitate deep exchanges among overseas Fujianese communities.
He also confirmed that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will attend the event as the guest of honour at the opening ceremony on November 9.
He said TFHAM will also host a cultural corridor exhibition in conjunction with the convention, providing exciting and interactive opportunities for participants and guests.
"We firmly believe that through the Harmoni Madani initiative, harmony and understanding among Malaysia's diverse ethnic and religious communities will be enhanced, fostering unity and harmony among all ethnic groups," he said.
The theme for this year's convention, "Sailing the Maritime Silk Road, Gathering Fujianese Sentiments," embodies the spirit of global exploration, trade, and cultural exchange, which have long been hallmarks of Fujianese heritage.
Lim said this year holds special significance as it marks the 30th anniversary of the convention and the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations, established on May 31, 1974.
He added that both countries have made remarkable progress in economic, cultural, and educational fields, with cooperation and friendship growing ever stronger.
Lim said with the significant influx of visitors to Malaysia, the associations is confident that this convention will drive economic benefits across various sectors such as tourism and hospitality, the MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) economy, and dining and shopping among others.
"The convention not only brings together Fujianese to discuss their connections and plan future development but also brings direct economic benefits to the country. "Moreover, by promoting business cooperation and enhancing international image, it injects new vitality and momentum into Malaysia's economy," he added.
With about three months left, Lim said the association initiated visits several countries and around Malaysia as well as leveraging the social media to attract visitors.
"I had toured all over China and I still have four countries to go."Starting next month, we also will organise a tour to Johor, Pahang, Kelantan and other states," he said adding that the convention have received a great response from participants.