ARTIFICIAL Intelligence (AI) is no longer confined to the realm of possibility, but it is already reshaping the way we live, work, and do business, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Speaking at the ‘7th Penang GBS Conference 2025’, themed ‘AI in Action: Transforming the Future of GBS’, Chow highlighted that AI is driving productivity, enhancing precision, and creating new ways of delivering value across the corporate world.
To support this growth, Chow announced the establishment of a new Global Business Services (GBS@Technoplex) facility, a cutting-edge, premium green office complex within the Bayan Lepas Technoplex. It is targeted to be completed by 2028.
“The construction of the GBS facility can only commence once at least 40% of the space has secured tenant interest.
“This 10‑storey, GBI‑certified development will feature a high floor loading capacity of 5kN, flexible layout design, a 100% backup power supply, and EV‑ready facilities.
“Purpose-built for GBS, IC Design, R&D, and digital companies, it will set a new benchmark for sustainable business environments,” Chow said.
InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian shared that the new GBS will span over 450,050 sq feet, making it one of the largest of Penang Development Corporation’s (PDC) signature GBS facilities in Penang.
Loo also added that, as of now, 20% have registered their interest (pre-let commitment) in GBS@Technoplex. She also shared that this GBS in Penang is more technical than similar facilities in Selangor.
Addressing concerns over AI replacing human talent, Chow acknowledged the talent crunch in AI-related jobs.
“While people often say AI will replace human talent, the reality is that it is difficult to hire skilled professionals for AI-related roles. Our focus is on upskilling human talent to meet these AI job requirements,” he said.
Chow also highlighted that Penang is home to over 90 GBS and shared services companies, employing more than 20,000 skilled professionals, reinforcing its status as a thriving digital hub.
“It is important to note that Penang is the only state in Malaysia with a dedicated series of GBS buildings developed by a state government agency, underscoring how serious and committed we are to advancing this industry.
“Among the GBS facilities in Penang are GBS@Mayang, GBS@Mahsuri, GBS TechSpace, and GBS By The Sea, all situated within the Penang IC Design & Digital Park,” Chow said.
At the conference, Chow also launched the Penang GBS Nodes Map, a visual representation of Penang’s vibrant GBS ecosystem.
The map highlights over 90 companies across the island and mainland, showing business locations and talent hubs, and providing investors, partners, and stakeholders with a clear view of Penang’s capabilities and collaboration opportunities.
Pictures taken at the conference :-
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat