KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia further strengthened its position as a leading global tourism destination with the official opening of the World Federation of Great Towers (WFGT) Conference 2026 at the PETRONAS Twin Towers here.
Officiated by Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Deputy Minister Datuk Lo Su Fui, the conference is a significant international tourism industry gathering which aligns with the nation's Visit Malaysia 2026-2027 aspirations.
Hosted by the PETRONAS Twin Towers Sky Xperience, the conference brings together more than 70 delegates comprising operators of some of the world's most prominent towers and landmark attractions, tourism leaders and industry experts from over 16 countries.
The gathering reinforces Malaysia's growing role as a destination of choice for international tourism events, knowledge exchange and global collaboration.
Founded in 1989, the WFGT is a not-for-profit international association comprising more than 50 towers worldwide, collectively welcoming over 45mil visitors annually.
Its annual conference serves as the federation's premier platform for members to exchange best practices, explore emerging trends and discuss the future of landmark tourism and visitor attractions.
Held under the theme ‘In Pursuit of Excellence’, the conference reflects the global attractions industry's commitment to continuously raising standards, embracing innovation and delivering greater value to visitors in an increasingly dynamic tourism landscape.
Beyond serving as a platform for professional exchange, the conference seeks to advance conversations on how iconic landmarks can contribute to destination competitiveness, strengthen city branding and create lasting economic impact.
It also provides an opportunity for industry leaders to shape the future of world-class visitor experiences while supporting the broader development of sustainable and resilient tourism ecosystems.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Lo highlighted the conference’s role in supporting Malaysia's tourism ambitions and strengthening international collaboration.
"Malaysia is honoured to welcome representatives from more than 25 landmark towers and members of the WFGT to Kuala Lumpur.
“The presence of global industry leaders at this conference reflects the significance of these iconic landmarks as enduring symbols of the cities and countries they represent.
“While you come from different cultures, operating environments and communities, you are united by a common purpose: strengthening the role of iconic landmarks as drivers of tourism and economic growth.”
Lo added: “As we continue our efforts towards Visit Malaysia 2026-2027, landmarks such as the PETRONAS Twin Towers play an increasingly important role in reinforcing Malaysia's position as a preferred global destination.
“They are not merely attractions; they are ambassadors of our nation, showcasing our culture, hospitality, innovation and commitment to excellence.
“The hosting of the event at the Twin Towers underscores the landmark's status as one of the world's most recognised architectural icons and an important contributor to Malaysia's tourism landscape.”
KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd group chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Salem Kailany said the conference further elevates the international profile of both the Twin Towers and the KLCC Precinct.
“While the PETRONAS Twin Towers may be what brings them here, we hope it is the people, experiences and spirit of this city that leave a lasting impression. To us, the true measure of a great tower lies not only in how it shapes the skyline, but how it inspires those who visit.
“As it is Visit Malaysia 2026-2027, we are especially pleased to have all the delegates here to experience Kuala Lumpur first-hand.”
He shared, “There could be no better time to welcome our fellow tower representatives from around the world to our city. While the conference will provide the delegates with many opportunities to exchange ideas and insights, beyond that, we hope it inspires our guests to discover Malaysia more widely – from the PETRONAS Twin Towers and KLCC Park, to the many experiences across the KLCC Precinct and the city.”
WFGT executive director Jean-Yves Ghazi said Kuala Lumpur was a natural choice to host this year's conference.
"The PETRONAS Twin Towers stand among the world's most recognisable landmarks and embody the innovation, ambition and excellence that define our federation. Kuala Lumpur provides an ideal setting for meaningful discussions on the future of tourism, visitor engagement and destination development.
“Our annual conference enables members to learn from one another, exchange ideas and collectively address emerging opportunities and challenges. As visitor expectations continue to evolve, collaboration among landmark destinations becomes increasingly important in shaping more engaging, memorable and future-ready experiences."
As operator of the PETRONAS Twin Towers Sky Xperience, Petrosains Sdn Bhd plays a pivotal role in curating memorable experiences at one of Malaysia's most iconic landmarks.
Petrosains Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Ezarisma Azni Mohamad said, "Coming shortly after the PETRONAS Twin Towers marked its 27th anniversary on Aug 31, hosting the WFGT Conference represents a significant milestone for us.
“Beyond welcoming delegates from around the world, the conference provides Malaysia with an opportunity to contribute to global conversations on the future of tourism and visitor experiences.
“It allows us to demonstrate how innovation, hospitality and meaningful storytelling can create destinations that continue to inspire and remain relevant for future generations.”
Throughout the week, delegates will participate in strategic discussions, technical exchanges and curated experiences focused on visitor engagement, commercial sustainability, technological innovation and operational excellence.
Delegates will also visit fellow Malaysian WFGT member towers, Kuala Lumpur Tower and Kuantan 188, offering them a broader perspective of Malaysia's tourism landscape and iconic attractions.
