World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) chairman Tun Musa Hitam said in developing countries, women are found to be more involved as creators of technological, creative, crafts, fine arts and cultural activities.

"For women to advance they must be able to engage themselves in the creative economy.

"Back then, fifty years ago, the world's economy was propelled by the energy sector but nowadays, it is ruled by Microsoft, Apple and Amazon. Technology is the way forward and women have it upon them the opportunity to harness this potential," he said during the opening ceremony.

For WIEF's Businesswomen Network Chairman Datuk Dr Norresah, the road forward is still paved with challenges.

"We have made in roads but the carriage remain uphill. We hope that the forum would open doors for collaboration and networking between women entrepreneurs around the world.

"We have a lot to learn from each other and our list of distinguished speakers would inspire every participants to take up the creative economy as the way forward," she said.

The forum held in Gangneung City, South Korea seeks to explore the potentials of women and the creative economy.

The two-day forum attracts 140 delegates from 14 countries including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Pakistan, Spain, United Arab Emirates, Kenya and South Korea.

The forum is also graced by Her Royal Highness Raja Zarith Sofiah binti Almarhum Sultan Idris Shah, Permaisuri of the State of Johor, Malaysia who gave a rousing speech on agenda of increasing women economic potentials.

The event was also attended by Gangwon Province Governor, H. E. Moon-Soon Choi and Korean Women Entrepreneurs Association chairman, Dr. Moo Kyung Han.