IN a historic celebration of cinema and culture, the 17th edition of the Edison Awards & Edison Film Festival made its debut on Malaysian soil, held for the very first time in Penang at the Setia SPICE Arena in Bayan Lepas today.
The event was graced by the presence of Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who warmly welcomed guests and celebrated the growing cultural ties between Penang and India.
In his keynote speech, Chow expressed immense pride in Penang being chosen as the host city for such a prestigious event, describing it as a natural fit for a place known for its rich heritage, cultural harmony, and burgeoning creative economy.
“To our distinguished guests, esteemed artists, industry leaders, and friends from India —Selamat Datang.
“Your presence brings the vibrant spirit of Kollywood to our shores, and we are absolutely thrilled to host you,” said Chow.
The Edison Awards, long regarded as one of Tamil cinema’s most revered platforms, has over the years honoured some of the biggest names in the industry, including Vijay, Dhanush, Simbu, and Vikram, as well as rising stars like Sivakarthikeyan and music composer Anirudh.
This year’s edition holds special significance with the introduction of the Edison Film Festival, which showcases genre-based screenings designed to celebrate creative storytelling and technical brilliance.
The Edison Film Festival also recognises excellence in 33 categories, with top-tier nominations for the Best Male Actor Award featuring industry legends such as Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Vijay, Suriya, Sivakarthikeyan, Vijay Sethupathi, Silambarasan (Simbu), Dhanush, Vikram, and Yogi Babu.
Meanwhile, the Best Female Actress category boasts powerhouses like Keerthy Suresh, Nayanthara, Tamannaah, Trisha, and Ramya among others.
Chow noted that hosting the event aligns seamlessly with the state’s Penang2030 vision, which aims to diversify the economy, strengthen the creative sectors, and position Penang as a regional leader in arts, culture, and innovation.
“Events like this not only celebrate artistic excellence but also elevate Penang’s global profile as a destination for cultural diplomacy and creative tourism,” he said.
Chow also expressed his hope that this inaugural partnership with the Tamil film community marks the beginning of deeper artistic collaboration between Penang and the Indian film industry.
“And now that Kollywood has arrived in Penang, I sincerely hope this is just the beginning. Perhaps next, we can welcome Bollywood to our beautiful island too!”
To the award recipients, Chow also offered heartfelt congratulations.
“Your work uplifts and inspires, and I have no doubt that tonight will be remembered as a milestone for many,” he said.
In closing, Chow also extended an open invitation to filmmakers and artists around the world.
“Let Penang be your platform, your home, and your canvas for future collaborations. We welcome the global Tamil, and maybe soon, Hindi film community with open arms,” he concluded.
Also present were Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai and state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Some of the candid pictures during the 17th edition of the Edison Awards & Edison Film Festival at the Setia SPICE Arena in Bayan Lepas today.
