PENANG’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are embracing a new era of opportunity as digitalisation continues to transform the way local businesses operate, connect, and grow. From neighbourhood cafés to craft retailers and service providers, these enterprises form the foundation of Penang’s vibrant economy.
Recognising their importance, Digital Penang has been at the forefront of helping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) strengthen their capabilities through technology adoption and digital upskilling programmes.
While digitalisation brings many advantages, it also presents challenges for smaller businesses that often lack technical know-how or resources. To bridge this gap, Digital Penang has introduced a series of targeted initiatives to help MSMEs take practical steps toward digital adoption.
Working closely with industry partners, entrepreneurs are trained in areas such as e-commerce, digital payments, social media marketing, ESG reporting and data analytics.
Since 2021, more than 500 MSMEs across Penang have benefited from these training sessions, gaining the confidence to enhance productivity, increase visibility, and engage with customers more effectively online.
Another successful initiative is the MSME LevelUp Programme (MELUP), which has been running for the past three years since 2023. The programme focuses on helping micro and small businesses strengthen their online presence and digital branding through hands-on workshops. Participants learn to develop their business canvas models, build strong web presences, and refine branding strategies to reach wider audiences. To date, over 200 MSMEs have been trained under MELUP, equipping them with essential digital skills to boost market competitiveness.
Beyond training, Digital Penang continues to build partnerships with technology platforms, business associations, and industry stakeholders to create a supportive digital ecosystem. These collaborations ensure that MSMEs have access to the latest tools, expertise, and opportunities to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Digitalisation is also making headway in Penang’s manufacturing and manufacturing-related sectors. Through initiatives such as the Smart Warehouse Industry 4.0 programme, 25 manufacturing SMEs had the opportunity to discover IR4.0 technologies that can transform their business operations. In collaboration with YGL World, the session highlighted how smart technologies can help companies increase productivity, reduce costs, and achieve business goals. These efforts mark an important step toward driving Industry 4.0 adoption among Penang’s manufacturing community.
Digital transformation is not just about adopting technology; it is about embracing a mindset of adaptability and innovation. By encouraging small businesses to take steady steps toward digital adoption, Digital Penang is helping build a future-ready business community that contributes to Penang’s economic resilience.
Digital Penang’s achievements in advancing SME digitalisation have been strengthened by strategic partnerships with TIME, Maxis, and YGL. TIME has provided reliable high-speed broadband connectivity, Maxis has supported entrepreneurs with digital marketing and cloud-based solutions, while YGL has contributed its expertise in enterprise resource planning (ERP) and digital transformation for manufacturers.
For business owners eager to begin their digital journey, Digital Penang offers a comprehensive pathway through its training, advisory, and ecosystem-building initiatives. From setting up e-commerce platforms and integrating cashless payments to implementing smart operational systems, the agency ensures that no business is left behind in the digital era.
Through its continued commitment to empowering MSMEs, Digital Penang is shaping a future-ready business community — one that is resilient, innovative, and well-equipped to thrive in the digital economy.
For more information about Digital Penang, a Penang State Government-linked company, please contact Preytiishaa Ramanathan, Senior Corporate Communications and Digital Marketing Executive, at 011-1210 9917 / 04-835 0307 or email [email protected].
Pix courtesy of Digital Penang