Melaka: The 7th World Tourism Conference (WTC), held in conjunction with World Tourism Day 2025, marked a pivotal moment in advancing tourism as a catalyst for positive change, resilience, and sustainable development worldwide.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the global gathering, themed "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation," underscored the vital importance of the sector as leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and local communities came together to shape a sustainable future for tourism. Hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in collaboration with UN Tourism, the event showcased Malaysia's rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and commitment to sustainable tourism.

In his official message, United Nations Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres described tourism as a 'powerful driver of transformation' that creates jobs, fuels economies, and builds cultural bridges. He emphasized that tourism must be sustainable to protect the very places and communities it celebrates, urging stakeholders to harness tourism as a force for resilience, sustainability, and shared progress.

The statement noted that the celebrations in Melaka featured a series of activities, including high-level panel discussions and cultural showcases focused on sustainable practices and strategies to build industry resilience. Among the key areas of focus were investing in education and skills, accelerating innovation and digital transformation, supporting local economies, and strengthening cultural exchange.

The WTC also provided a collaborative platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies for sustainable tourism development, focusing on resilience, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. Key sessions explored digital transformation in tourism, community-based tourism models, and climate-neutral travel solutions, aligning with the theme "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation."