PENANG continues to strengthen its position as a regional innovation and technology hub through the organisation of AI Horizon 2026, scheduled to take place on Oct 6 and 7 at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC).
Entering its second edition, the artificial intelligence-focused event is expected to bring together approximately 200 companies specialising in emerging technologies, innovation and young talent from across the country.
Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo said the initiative aims to position Penang as a regional centre for AI and smart technologies by leveraging the state’s strengths in robotics, semiconductors and the digital economy, while also emphasising talent development and international strategic collaboration.
“We see the international collaborations achieved by Penang through exchanges of expertise in AI, digital transformation, smart manufacturing, semiconductors, robotics and future technologies as capable of elevating the state into a leading AI technology powerhouse in Malaysia.
“Through international engagement sessions, AI Horizon also serves as a platform to share Penang’s vision and direction in building a stronger AI and innovation ecosystem.
“In addition, we hope delegates will encourage companies from their respective countries, including multinational corporations with AI expertise, to participate, showcase their technologies and be involved in AI Horizon,” he said.
He was speaking during the AI Horizon International Engagement Dialogue Session held at his office in Komtar yesterday.
Also present were consular representatives and international delegates comprising AI industry players from Japan, China, Germany, Sweden, Ukraine, Finland, India and Estonia.
Jagdeep, who is also state executive councillor for Human Capital Development, Science and Technology, said Penang possesses a strong foundation to grow as an AI hub not only nationally but also regionally.
According to him, this is supported by a robust industrial ecosystem, including the presence of global multinational corporations as well as a highly skilled engineering and technical workforce.
“The rapid growth of the digital economy and the state’s innovation ecosystem are also important factors in accelerating Penang’s aspiration to become a regional AI hub,” he added.
He further stressed that international collaboration is crucial in accelerating Penang’s aspirations to emerge as a regional AI and innovation hub.
“We hope to build long-term collaborations and future engagement opportunities with the organisations and countries involved.
“AI Horizon is an ideal platform to bring AI innovation to greater heights,” he said.
Earlier during the dialogue session, Jagdeep also exchanged views and received various insights and recommendations from AI industry representatives in efforts to further advance AI technology development in Penang.
Also present were Japan consul general in Penang Machida Shinya, Finland honorary consul Petri Karjalainen, Sweden honorary consul Ooi Geok Ling, Germany honorary consul Datuk Hans Peter Brenner, personal assistant to Ukraine honorary consul Chew Zhi Hui, Jagdeep’s adviser J. Philip Vincent, Tech Dome Penang CEO Khoo Boo Wooi, Penang STEM chief executive officer Datuk Richard Chung, China WAP Country director Lily Liu and WAP China’s Peter Sun.
Pix by Mohd Aizat Sharif Fisalluddin and courtesy of Tech Dome Penang