AS Penang advances its vision of a smart, green, and inclusive economy, the state is placing growing emphasis on job preservation and talent development as key priorities.
Recognising the vital role schools play in building a strong talent pipeline, several state-supported programmes under the Penang Science Cluster, including Coding for All, MakerLab for Schools, and Girls in Engineering & Technology, are equipping students statewide with early exposure to STEM, coding, and robotics. These initiatives aim to lay a foundation for industry-ready skills and prepare the next generation for the demands of the digital economy.
The latest milestone in Penang’s digital talent development was marked with the official launch of 42 Penang, a tuition-free, peer-to-peer coding school located at Wisma Yeap Chor Ee, on April 29, 2025. Operated under the globally renowned 42 Network, the campus offers learners from all backgrounds an alternative pathway into the tech industry, earning industry-recognised credentials through project-based learning.
Housed alongside Digital Penang and Penang Science Cluster, 42 Penang forms a cohesive talent development ecosystem where students progress from school-based STEM programmes to industry-level coding, AI, and cybersecurity training.
“By uniting Digital Penang’s initiatives with Penang Science Cluster’s school programmes and 42 Penang’s peer-to-peer coding model under one roof, we create a classroom-to-industry talent pathway that accelerates innovation and powers Penang’s digital economy,” said state Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, who is also the Digital Penang vice-chairman.
The momentum behind the initiative was further boosted during a visit on May 29, 2025, by Sophie Viger, chief executive officer of the global 42 Network, accompanied by Jeff Sandhu, chief executive officer of 42 Malaysia.
Welcomed by Zairil and the Digital Penang leadership team, the visit underscored the state’s commitment to integrating education and policy development in real time.
The partnership reflects Penang’s broader strategy of public-private partnerships to strengthen its innovation ecosystem. Digital Penang, a government-linked agency, continues to play a pivotal role in transforming the state into Southeast Asia’s premier digital hub, with support for startups, MSMEs, and future-oriented infrastructure.
Aspiring developers and career-switchers are encouraged to apply to 42 Penang at apply.42penang.edu.my. The programme requires no tuition fees or academic qualifications.
For more information on Digital Penang’s initiatives, visit digitalpenang.my.
Pix courtesy of Digital Penang