“My dream is to turn Perak into a State of Distinction, an unrivalled state in terms of development and well-being, because I really believe Perak can outdo its past glory and be greater than it ever was.” This is the dream Dato’ Seri DiRaja Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, Menteri Besar expressed during the soft launch of Pangkor Dialogue 2017 at WEIL Hotel.
Pangkor Dialogue is a move to elevate the state to a new plateau of development, one that is prosperous, happy and inclusive, where we chart our own course and be a model for the country and the region.
Zambry added that hosting an international conference has a wide range of benefits. It is now widely acknowledged that business events mobilise interactions and collaborations that form the foundation of innovation, economic development and societal change – all catalysts for a thriving economy and a prosperous community. It can connect businesses in Perak with Global Market and attract international investment to the state.
Last year Pangkor Dialogue attracted over 2000 participants, nine MOUs were signed and is expected to generate RM425 million in investments. Ipoh was recognised as the 5th Social Business City in the world and first in Asia.
Pangkor Dialogue 2017 themed “Making the Future: Innovative Pathways to Sustainable Development will be for two days September 11 and 12 at Hotel Casuarina@Meru.
Sustainable Development Goals is an international effort through the United Nations to transform our world through 17 major goals. The aim of this global effort is to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all.
This year a new element, Perak Festival of Ideas will be introduced in conjunction with Pangkor Dialogue. It will bring artistes, entrepreneurs, food lovers, investors, innovators and sports enthusiasts to congregate at various venues mainly in Ipoh and other parts of the state. This will facilitate sharing and experiencing of intellectual, innovative and inspiring ideas from within and outside Perak. Festival of Ideas will be held concurrently from September 6 to 12.
The event will be officiated by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah and is expected to be attended by 1500 participants from 30 foreign countries. They consist of world thinkers and representatives from various industries, governments and academic institutions.
Among the well-known speakers who will attend this dialogue are former Ecuadorian President Jorje Jamil Mahuad Witt, grassroot innovation scholar, Anil Kumar Gupta and Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett.
Dr Zambry explained that participants from abroad would make Pangkor Dialogue as a reference point and talk about it outside.
A. Jeyaraj
