THE state government is looking forward to enhancing collaboration between Penang, the northern region of Malaysia, and China.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the world is entering a new era defined by green technology, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and resilient supply chains.
“Penang aims to play a proactive role and not merely as a recipient of investment, but as a committed partner in co-creating solutions.
“From low-carbon factories to semiconductor design and digital tourism, we see the future as a shared journey of innovation and sustainability,” Chow said in his speech during the reception dinner to celebrate the 76th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China at the Penang Marriott Hotel in Gurney Drive this evening.
Also present were the acting Chinese consul-general in Penang Madam Ding Qiao, Human Resources Minister and Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim Chee Keong, Penang Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye and Penang Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol.
According to Chow, that vision is already evident in measurable progress.
“In the first half of this year, Penang recorded RM12.54 billion in approved manufacturing investments, of which RM1.85 billion, or nearly 15%, came from China across 12 projects, creating an estimated 1,532 new jobs.
“Today, around 65 Chinese companies operate in Penang, while China remains our second-largest trading partner, accounting for 15.6% of total exports, or RM77 billion in 2024,” he explained.
Chow added that Penang always welcome more high-value partnerships and investments from China to align with the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP 2030).
“In this context, Penang proposes several practical pathways for collaboration.
“Firstly, the ASEAN–China Green Innovation Lab in Malaysia, focusing on clean energy, artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technologies.
“Secondly, the co-funded applied research and development (R&D) in integrated circuit (IC) design and wafer fabrication, leveraging the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS) as well as Penang Silicon Design @5km+ and the Penang Chip Design Academy.
“We also targeted talent-exchange scholarships to upskill Malaysian engineers and designers,” he added.
He said Penang also hopes to explore pilot Special Economic Zones (SEZs) inspired by the Penang International Financial Centre concept, dedicated hubs for finance and innovation.
“Just as Shenzhen’s rise was driven by well-planned SEZs that allowed new ideas to be tested and scaled, Penang hopes to learn from this experience.
“We welcome Shenzhen and Chinese partners to share expertise, collaborate on training and joint projects, and help pilot new approaches.
“Such a partnership can accelerate technology transfer, attract green finance, strengthen local skills, and deliver broader benefits to Penang and the northern region,” said Chow.
Chow concluded by extending his warm wishes to China on its National Day.
“Tonight, as we celebrate 76 years of China’s remarkable progress, let us look forward to a future of shared success, where Penang — together with the northern states of Malaysia — works hand in hand with China to drive green manufacturing, advance digital education, and open new frontiers of innovation,” he said.
Meanwhile, Madam Ding Qiao reaffirmed China’s commitment to stronger ties with northern Malaysia.
“The Consulate General of China in Penang is ready to join hands with governments and communities across the four northern states to practice Asian values of peace, cooperation, openness, and inclusiveness. Together, we can deepen exchanges, upgrade cooperation, and write a new chapter in building a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future,” she said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis