PENANG has reaffirmed its status as a vibrant hub of innovation, enterprise, and opportunity with the official launch of Penang Young Business Leaders 2026 today.
A flagship publication by CHTNetwork, Penang Young Business Leaders 2026 spotlights 27 dynamic young achievers who are shaping the future across a wide spectrum of industries.
Curated under the theme ‘Connecting Penang to the World’, the publication celebrates forward-thinking individuals who are redefining success while strengthening Penang’s influence in global trade, investment, and talent development.
Editor-in-chief and CHTNetwork president Datuk Ch’ng Huck Theng said Penang’s spirit has long been inspired by leaders who were willing to innovate and pursue purposeful progress.
“Through this publication, we celebrate a new generation of changemakers who are not only building successful enterprises but also contributing meaningfully to Penang’s growth and global standing.
“We must bring these Penang young achievers together and connect them, promote them globally, and ensure that they continue to anchor themselves in Penang while growing and expanding from this state,” he said in his speech.
The launch ceremony, held at St Giles The Wembley Hotel in George Town, was officiated by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
In his address, Chow emphasised that the publication goes beyond showcasing accomplishments.
“It reflects the character of Penang’s next generation that is bold, resilient, globally minded, and ready to redefine leadership in a world shaped by rapid innovation and uncertainty.
“The stories within highlight not only where Penang stands today, but more importantly, where we must go next.
“To the young leaders featured in this year’s edition: Congratulations. Your achievements show that leadership is not defined by age, but by purpose, discipline, and courage.
“You are creating jobs, building teams, uplifting communities, and expanding Penang’s footprint in global markets. You are shaping not only your industries, but also the future identity and competitiveness of our state,” he said.
Chow noted that the honourees come from diverse sectors, including technology, electrical and electronics (E&E), creative arts, healthcare, real estate, hospitality, digital services, and social enterprise.
“Their work reflects the breadth of Penang’s economic strengths. Beyond benefiting from the state’s growth, they are accelerating it through innovation, adaptability, and collaboration.
“Their success demonstrates that Penang’s progress is not driven by government alone, but by leaders with vision, commitment, and integrity,” he added.
Chow also urged young leaders to be bold in several key areas, such as moving up the value chain, embedding sustainability into business models, bridging the skills gap, and strengthening both digital and civic literacy as Penang advances towards the Penang2030 vision.
“The Penang government will continue to support this journey by expanding access to talent-development platforms such as 42 Penang, the Penang Chip Design Academy, the Penang Skills Development Centre, and Digital Penang’s Creative Digital District, alongside small and medium enterprises (SMEs) development programmes.
“These initiatives aim to nurture a workforce that is technically skilled, future-ready, and globally competitive,” said Chow.
Among those present were Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers Penang (FMM Penang) Datuk Seri Lee Teong Li, Penang Chinese Town Hall chairman Tan Sri Tan Khoon Hai, Association of Certified Accountants Malaysia president Prof Dr Tan Yen Wooi, Malaysia Entrepreneurs’ Development Association (PUMM) chairlady Ellva Tan and Imperium Group Asia Group managing director Cheah Chay Tiong.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat