HONG KONG continues to be an important friend and strategic partner to Penang across multiple sectors, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
He noted that Penang’s tourism industry has recorded a welcome increase in travellers flying between Hong Kong and Penang, supported by the expansion of direct flight connectivity by several airlines.
“The annual Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta has also just concluded, marking another successful edition made possible by the generous sponsorship and strong support from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO),” Chow said in his speech at the Chinese New Year Dinner organised by HKETO and its partners at the Penang Marriott Hotel in Gurney Drive this evening.
Chow added that Hong Kong has also proven to be one of Penang’s key trading partners, particularly in the export of semiconductor devices and integrated circuits.
“This is reflected in the total trade value of RM92.88 billion (USD21.54 billion) between Malaysia and Hong Kong for the period from January to October 2025,” he said.
Chow also expressed his enthusiasm over the commencement of operations of the HKETO office in Kuala Lumpur on Dec 10 last year, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral economic relations.
“Following the earlier establishment of HKETO offices in the region, the opening of the Kuala Lumpur office marks a new chapter in deepening economic ties between Malaysia and Hong Kong.
“On the same note, I would like to express Penang’s appreciation for the many collaborative engagements undertaken over the years with the support and friendship of the Jakarta HKETO Office.
“I am hopeful that we will enjoy the same level of commitment and dedication from the Kuala Lumpur HKETO Office as well,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jakarta HKETO Office director-general Libera Cheng said the successful opening of the HKETO office in Kuala Lumpur represents one of the major achievements jointly realised by Hong Kong and Malaysia.
“The swift establishment of the HKETO office in Kuala Lumpur would not have been possible without the strong support of the Malaysian government and relevant authorities.
“With this development, we also hope to unlock more opportunities for businesses in Hong Kong, Malaysia and Penang,” she said.
Also present were Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze, Chinese Consul-General in Penang Zhou Youbin, Hong Kong-Malaysia Business Association president Datuk Dixon Chew and Hong Kong Trade Development Council regional director for South East Asia and South Asia Leung Kwan-Ho.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Alissala Thian