ONE of the most prominent platforms for science and technology education, the Penang International Science Fair (PISF), returns for its 13th edition this year.
The fair will be held at the Setia SPICE Arena and Concourse, on Nov 8 and 9 from 9am to 5pm. The theme for 2025 is ‘You + AI > You’.
Announcing the fair’s return, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the event serves three vital purposes — to ignite a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among youth, to showcase real-world innovations from industry and academia, and to celebrate student achievements through hands-on projects that inspire teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity.
“It is where curiosity meets creativity, and where young minds discover that science is not just a subject, but a powerful tool to build the future,” Chow said during the press conference held at the Penang Science Cluster (PSC) office today.
Chow added that this year’s fair has drawn the support of 73 companies, organisations, and institutions, a clear reflection of Penang’s strong collaboration between industry, academia, and the community.
“The PISF plays a significant role in transforming a spark of curiosity in young minds into tomorrow’s breakthroughs in chip design, artificial intelligence, and clean energy.
“The projects showcased at this fair are not just school assignments; they are the blueprints of Penang’s future industries, start-ups, and innovations.
“In line with the Penang2030 vision, this fair stands as a symbol of progress that is both sustainable and inclusive. And it all starts here, with our students who dare to explore, our educators who inspire, and our industry partners who empower.
“Together, you form the foundation upon which Penang’s future is being built,” he said.
Chow also encouraged students to embrace the fair as their launchpad, to ask bold questions, take courageous risks, and let their imagination lead the way.
“To our teachers and mentors, your passion and guidance transform curiosity into capability, and potential into purpose.
“And to our industry partners, your collaboration bridges classrooms and boardrooms, shaping the skills that will drive our future,” Chow said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, who is also the PSC chairman, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to advancing science and technology.
PSF chief executive officer Datuk Ooi Peng Ee presented the AI (Artificial Intelligence) programmes conducted by the organisation.
Also present was State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi.
The two-day fair is expected to attract between 40,000 and 60,000 visitors, including students, community groups, orphanages, and the general public.
Visitors can enjoy free admission to over 30,000 fun, hands-on workshop slots offered by the industry, MakerLab schools, and PSF, along with industry exhibits, competitions, MakerFest, and much more.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat