THE Penang government remains committed to strengthening the state’s talent ecosystem, encompassing schools, technical and vocational institutions, universities, training providers, and lifelong learning programmes.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said as Penang advances its Penang2030 vision, the state’s future competitiveness will depend heavily on the quality of its talent pool.
“Penang continues to attract investments in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, electrical and electronics (E&E), medical technology, global business services, and the digital economy.
“However, sustaining this growth will increasingly depend on our ability to develop, retain, and continuously upgrade talent,” Chow said during the 20th Anniversary Celebration and Gala Night of Mahsa International College Penang at The Light Hotel in Seberang Jaya this evening.
Also present were Mahsa International College Penang chief executive officer Vijayendiran Subramanian and Mahsa Group founder and executive chairman Prof Tan Sri Dr Mohamed Haniffa Abdullah.
Chow noted that several encouraging initiatives have emerged in recent months to support talent development in the state.
He cited, among others, Great Tech’s digital library programme, aimed at enhancing students’ digital literacy, industry-driven talent development initiatives, the Penang GBS Industry Academy 2.0 focusing on generative artificial intelligence, and the Northern Corridor Economic Region Technology and Innovation Centre.
“These initiatives will help strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry-academia collaboration,” he said.
Chow added that talent development must not end at graduation, but should continue through reskilling, upskilling, and lifelong learning.
He also said Mahsa International College Penang plays a significant role in supporting the state’s aspirations, particularly through its contributions to healthcare education and professional training, which complements the state’s efforts to strengthen its position as a destination for quality healthcare and medical tourism.
Chow also congratulated the institution on its 20-year milestone, noting that it had evolved from its beginnings in dental education into a broader academic institution with an expanding portfolio, growing international presence, and a track record of producing talent contributing locally and globally.
He expressed confidence that the college would continue to strengthen talent ecosystem and contribute to the state’s socio-economic development.
Meanwhile, Vijayendiran said the institution’s first two decades had been marked by vision, resilience, and steady progress.
“The next 20 years will be shaped by innovation, growth, and an unwavering commitment to transforming lives through education,” he said.
He also thanked the Penang government, partners, alumni, staff, students, and all stakeholders for their support in the institution’s remarkable journey.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix and video by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan