The theme of the 30th Biennial Convention of IOA Malaysia 2014 is ‘One Sight, One Vision’, aimed at enhancing the vocational and professional scope of opticians
When: 24th to 30th October 2014
Where: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The International Opticians Association (IOA) is going to be held from 24th – 30th November, 2014 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. IOA welcomes the optical industry for its biennial event, IOA Malaysia 2014. This event is sponsored by Hoya and Alcon and focuses on ‘learning through play’ and encourages discussions, exchange of ideas and experiences among fellow opticians. This year’s theme is ‘One Sight, One Vision’. The motto aims to provide the insight towards the adoption of an academic program to enhance the vocational and professional scope of opticians.
Over the years, the IOA has established itself as a forum for opticians from around the world, offering them the opportunity to discuss and disseminate matters relating to optical business. It also provides support to fellow members as necessary.
The benefits to all national member organisations include early and easily accessible knowledge of how international governments are legislating, or are intending to do so with regards to the optical profession. This means that members can be forewarned of situations that could arise in the optical industry. It gives knowledge about commercial trends in optics around the world, international prestige by being able to help other countries’ organisations, and the ability to disseminate interesting international employment details to its members. Close co-operation with fellow organisations when discussing educational standards for dispensing opticians is also achieved.
The aim of the international body is that, besides providing the latest knowledge and skills in opticianry, the Convention will serve as a platform for new ophthalmic frames and sunglasses resources. In this respect, the IOA has invited numerous oversea frame wholesalers to exhibit at this convention.
IOA was formed in 1951. IOA conventions are held every two years in different locations around the world. The first convention was held in London in August 1953. The last meeting of IOA was held in Perth, Australia. The International Guild’s biennial conventions move around each of the member countries in turn, usually taking place in the country of the sitting president. Kevin Slew from Malaysia is the current President of IOA. Sir Anthony Garrette from the UK is the Secretary General.
The IOA is a forum for opticians from around the world offering them the opportunity to discuss and disseminate matters relating to optical business. It also provides support to fellow members as necessary. The IOA’s business is mainly carried out as stated at conventions. Modern communication methods, however, enable more regular contact. Conventions encourage an unashamed social element into the more serious proceedings. Incidentally, the IOA was the first optical body in the world to issue a code of practice.
The complete itinerary is available here. Members can log on to this link to register. For further details, they can get in touch with the IOA team on +603 2781 9001, fax on +603 2781 9002 or email at convention2014@ioaoptician.org.
