Due to COVID-19 (also known as coronavirus) concerns, the inaugural WordCamp Asia 2020 has been cancelled.
In his post, Matt Mullenweg said
…there are too many unknowns around the health issues unfolding right now in the region to explicitly encourage a large public gathering bringing together over 1,300 people from around the world.
Organizers posted the announcement on the WordCamp Asia 2020 website, explaining the decision was made to ensure the safety of all WordCamp Asia attendees.
The focus for the organizers now is to assist everyone who planned to participate in WordCamp Asia 2020.
Organizers said there are no plans to organize an online event to replace the conference.
Everyone who purchased a ticket will receive an email message with information about requesting a refund.
In addition, everyone who registered for WordCamp Asia 2020 will receive a free ticket for a future WordCamp Asia event.
WordPress Community Responds
As word spread, the WordPress community responded with supportive messages and heartfelt thanks for all the work by organizers and volunteers to plan WordCamp Asia.
To the lovely WordCamp Asia organisers from #WCEU organisers present and past. We want to express our solidarity so that you know that in your disappointment we see you and we know what this means. ♥️💔https://t.co/sMoKtnY3Us @WordCampAsia #WCAsia
— Petya Raykovska (@petyeah) February 12, 2020
Sad news but very wise decision #WCAsia. Thank you for the immense effort put by organizing and volunteer team. This for sure will not go to waste and result in a great WordCamp Asia next year 🙏 @WordCampAsia https://t.co/GaepNAdcyF
— Maziar Firuzmand (@Antialiasfactry) February 12, 2020
This is disappointing news, but completely understand & support the decision 🙏
If there are any fellow #WordPress fans already in Bangkok who want to do something WordPress-y that weekend, feel free to join our FB group to share interest & ideas 😊 https://t.co/ZHvmojNo2i
— MailPoet (@mail_poet) February 12, 2020
It makes us sad to see @WordCampAsia cancelled, because we know how much the organizers of a new regional WordCamp pour from their hearts. The team gets our full sympathy and solidarity, we’re also heartbroken.
Please, make your dream come true in 2021!https://t.co/sgpW7qvqNs
— WordCamp Nordic (@WordCampNordic) February 12, 2020
Travel and Hotel
On the WordCamp Asia 2020 website, attendees are asked to cancel their flight and hotel arrangements, if they are refundable.
In addition:
- WordCamp Asia organizers are working with the official hotel to clarify their cancellation policy and will update the website soon with more info
- If you encounter issues refunding your travel and hotel bookings, WordCamp Asia has provided a cancellation fee letter for your use (PDF: 159KB).
Wordfence Offers Support to WordCamp Asia 2020 Attendees
In a generous offer of support, Wordfence has set up a $10,000 fund to assist with airline and hotel cancellation fees for WordCamp Asia 2020.
All WordCamp Asia 2020 organizers, attendees, and speakers can apply for the $200 maximum per person to cover travel and hotel fees.
What You Need to Know
- First, use the steps recommended by WordCamp Asia to get flight and hotel refunds
- The $200 per person is available on a first-come, first-serve basis
- Apply by sending an email to the email address mentioned in the Wordfence blog post. They will reply with the information they need and how the process works.
Since the funds are limited to $10,000, Wordfence recommends applying first to your organization or travel insurance provider to recover your flight and hotel funds.
Shoutout to Wordfence Chief Executive Officer Mark Maunder for his support of WordCamp Asia.
