PENANG will continue engaging the Federal Government and industry players on the need for better wages to retain skilled Malaysians, particularly graduates, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
He said while efforts to strengthen education, training and talent development were important, the issue of graduates leaving for better-paying jobs abroad remained a challenge.
“We can organise training programmes, strengthen education and equip young people with the right skills. But where do they go after graduation?
“Many of our graduates are ready for the workforce. Yet many leave for Singapore or other countries because the salaries offered there are more attractive.
“This is a national challenge,” Chow said in his speech at the 88 Captains Charity and Fellowship Dinner 2026 at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel here tonight.
Chow said the recent call to review Malaysia’s wage structure was timely, noting that the country risked losing more talent if wages did not reflect skills and productivity.
“Although wage policy falls under the Federal Government, Penang will continue engaging Putrajaya and industry stakeholders on this issue. High-value investments must create high-value jobs with competitive salaries,” he said.
He added that the state government remained committed to attracting quality investments, creating quality jobs and advocating policies that would allow Malaysians to build successful careers in the country.
Chow also called on 88 Captains to play a role in addressing the issue through its extensive industry network.
“With your strong industry network, you can work with employers, universities and policymakers to study graduate salaries and recommend ways to improve career pathways for fresh graduates.
“Our graduates deserve jobs that match their qualifications, skills and aspirations,” he said.
On talent development, Chow commended 88 Captains for its efforts in supporting education through scholarships, digital learning initiatives and collaborations with schools, universities and industry.
He said the organisation’s AIRU Programme — Apprenticeship, Internship, Reskilling and Upskilling — helps bridge the gap between education and industry by providing young people with workplace exposure and preparing them for future careers.
“These efforts support Penang’s ambition to be a leader in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, artificial intelligence and the digital economy,” he said.
Chow also praised the organisation and its partners for launching the Joint Mental Health Development in Schools with AI Early Education for Responsible Adoption initiative earlier this week.
He said the programme was timely following the introduction of the Anti-Bullying Act 2026.
“While the law provides the legal framework, prevention depends on our schools, families and communities. We must equip teachers, support students and promote the responsible use of artificial intelligence,” he said.
On another note, Chow highlighted a growing concern involving hundreds of students who sat for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination but were unable to obtain their certificates because they failed to meet the minimum requirements in certain compulsory subjects.
He said the situation could affect the students’ future prospects, particularly in pursuing careers, technical training and vocational education pathways that require an SPM certificate.
“As a state, we cannot afford to leave these young people behind. They deserve a second chance to improve and move forward,” he said.
Chow proposed that 88 Captains explore a pilot programme in collaboration with the Penang State Education Department to assist the affected students.
He suggested introducing targeted intervention programmes to help them improve in the required subjects and eventually obtain their SPM certificates.
Chow expressed confidence that 88 Captains could work together with relevant stakeholders to support the students and help them secure better prospects for the future.
He also congratulated 88 Captains on its contributions towards education and youth development, expressing hope that the organisation would continue empowering and assisting young people in the state.
Meanwhile, 88 Captains chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ooi Eng Hock thanked the state government for its continuous support.
He said the organisation had successfully raised RM1,888,888.88 to support various education initiatives.
“It is a remarkable achievement and an investment in education,” he said, adding that education has always been at the heart of 88 Captains’ mission.
At the event, 88 Captains also contributed RM30,000 each to Buddhist Tzu Chi Merit Society Malaysia, St Nicholas’ Home and Penang Cheshire Home.
In addition, 24 scholars received red packets from 88 Captains.
Established in 2022, 88 Captains is a platform that brings together entrepreneurs, professionals, educators and industry leaders, with a focus on education, talent development and community service.
Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his consort Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah were present at the dinner.
Also in attendance were Chow’s wife Tan Lean Kee, State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, state executive councillors Zairil Khir Johari and H’ng Mooi Lye, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid, Penang State Education Department director Mohamad Dziauddin Mat Saad and ViTrox Corporation Berhad chief executive officer Datuk Chu Jenn Weng.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian