THE One Academy Penang proudly hosted Passion Republic Insight Sharing today – a full-day creative session followed by a month-long exhibition (Oct 3–Nov 1), bringing international-level game design and animation expertise directly to Penang.
The highlight of the day was the participation of Passion Republic, Malaysia’s very own AAA animation and game development studio, founded by alumni of The One Academy. Best known for their award-winning original IP, GigaBash, the studio has made its global mark while continuing to develop cutting-edge projects such as Wizard Within.
Valuable behind-the-scenes insights were shared on their journey from concept to production, industry culture, and practical tips for building careers in animation and game design. The audience comprised students, educators, and industry enthusiasts.

State executive councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, Wong Hon Wai, applauded The One Academy Penang’s commitment to nurturing creative talent and underscored the importance of Malaysia’s digital and creative economy.
“Their award-winning IP, GigaBash, and their exciting upcoming project, Wizard Within, are shining examples of how creativity, discipline, and innovation can create global impact,” he said during his speech at the exhibition at The One Academy Penang, Straits Quay.


Sharing about his recent trip to the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Wong said he visited more than a dozen pavilions, including China, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Germany, Bangladesh, France, South Korea, and several African, Central, and South American countries.
He observed that a common feature among these pavilions was the integration of arts, culture, and science.
“Concepts like circular economy, biodegradable products, and digital art have become the common themes for the future. Creativity has to merge with science, supported by a strong narrative – that is the way forward,” Wong stressed.
Referring to the book The Nvidia Way: Jensen Huang and the Making of a Tech Giant, Wong highlighted how Nvidia, once focused solely on GPUs for gaming, expanded into AI and other fields to become the world’s No. 1 tech company.
“Gaming and entertainment are big things for the future. To the students and young creatives present today: Let Passion Republic’s journey remind you that with perseverance, imagination, and the right training, you too can achieve greatness. The creative industry is more than entertainment – it is a powerful driver of Malaysia’s economy and a vital force shaping our nation’s future,” he said.

Wong expressed confidence that The One Academy Penang will continue pushing the boundaries of creative education. By engaging industry leaders like Passion Republic, the academy equips its students with valuable exposure and skills to compete internationally.
“I encourage everyone here, especially the youth, to explore, to innovate, and to dream big – because your ideas have the potential to inspire the world,” he added, expressing hope to see more success stories from Penang and Malaysia in the years ahead.
Accompanying Wong on his tour of the exhibition were The One Academy Penang managing director Leong Hoy Yoke, head of business development Khoo Boo Keat, studio director Lim Pei Yen, assistant academic manager Dr Kuah Li Feng and assistant general manager Kathy Ong. Others present included Passion Republic senior marketing executive Harith Abadi Ahmad Zamzamin, game designer Lim Boon Keong, lead modelling artist Sim Min Kian, concept artist Huan Yee Tai, and Wizard Within illustrator Jessica Phang.

Dr Kuah said the event offered students and the creative community a rare chance to hear directly from industry leaders who turned their passion into a globally recognised brand.
“Passion Republic’s achievements have shown the world that Malaysian creativity can compete and win on the global stage. The journey from student to industry professional is not always easy, but it is deeply rewarding. Let their story remind you that with dedication, innovation, and the courage to take risks – your dreams are within reach,” she said.
Dr Kuah said the academy believes that education goes beyond the classroom.
“Events like this – where students meet creators, where ideas are exchanged, and where inspiration is ignited – are at the heart of what we do. We are committed to equipping our students not just with technical skills, but also with the mindset and networks needed to thrive in the ever-evolving creative economy,” Dr Kuah added.

Other highlights of the event included: Behind the Scenes at Passion Republic – a candid look at the studio’s journey and culture; Level Up Your Portfolio – practical guidance on building an industry-ready showcase; Design Fundamentals That Matter – understanding the power of colours, shapes, and character design; Ask Me Anything – an interactive panel with the speakers; and Meet & Greet – a networking session with the creative team.
The exhibition is open to the public from 9am to 5pm daily, except Sundays and public holidays, at One Pavilion, The One Academy Penang. For more information, call 04-210 3000 or email [email protected]
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Siew Chia En