Melaka: The World Tourism Conference 2025 (WTC2025), which kicked off today, serves as a crucial platform for exploring three key dimensions of global tourism, said Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. He outlined the three critical areas as empowering economies through inclusive tourism, scaling sustainable tourism from policy to practice, and embracing tourism in the age of artificial intelligence and innovation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh emphasized the importance of a shared vision of sustainable growth, inclusive participation, and transformative tourism for Malaysia and the world. In his keynote address, he highlighted tourism's role beyond economic activity, as a force connecting cultures, inspiring innovation, and fostering international understanding.

The conference, attended by Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, underscored Melaka's status as a UNESCO World Heritage City. Ab Rauf presented Melaka as an example of harmonious coexistence between heritage and modernity. He stressed that sustainability is a fundamental aspect of planning and development in the state, committed to preserving its diverse heritage, including historic monuments, architecture, arts, crafts, cuisine, and languages.

Guided by the theme 'Tourism and Sustainable Transformation: Inclusive, Resilient, Regenerative,' Ab Rauf expressed Melaka's readiness to inspire sustainable living globally. He articulated that the ideas shared at WTC2025 could transform communities, preserve shared heritage, and create sustainable opportunities for future generations.

The Chief Minister called for action, urging participants to ensure the legacy of WTC2025 resonates worldwide, emphasizing the importance of turning vision into action to create a lasting global impact.