YET another major conference has been announced for Penang, on the second consecutive day, following Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo’s announcement at today’s Penang Digitalisation-AI Conference & Exhibition press conference.
Jagdeep, who is the state EXCO for Human Capital Development, Science and Technology, said the conference, known as PDX2026, will be held at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre on July 15 and 16, and is expected to attract 10,000 delegates and 170 technology exhibitors from around the world.
A day earlier, he announced that AI Horizon 2026 would take place at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre on Oct 6 and 7.
“PDX2026 will bring together more than 10,000 delegates, 170 technology exhibitors, and leading experts from Malaysia and across the region, making it one of the largest digital and AI industry gatherings in Northern Malaysia.
“PDX2026 reflects the Penang government’s clear ambition to become a regional hub for digital technology, artificial intelligence and smart industry innovation,” Jagdeep said.
He added that the state government fully supports initiatives such as PDX2026 through pro-business policies, strong industry partnerships and a conducive environment for investors and technology companies
Emphasising the state’s focus on human capital development and digital skills training, Jagdeep said Penang remains a preferred destination for foreign investors due to its strong talent ecosystem.
“I’ve often said that the ‘world is in Penang’ because we have a robust ecosystem while ensuring our workforce is ready for AI, data science and future technologies,” he said.
Meanwhile, PDX2026 organising chairman Lukas Tan Jian Meng, who is also the chief executive officer and founder of Operion E-commerce and Software Sdn Bhd, said the conference is significant as digitalisation and AI are no longer optional but essential.
“They determine how businesses compete, how governments serve, and how societies progress. Across every sector — manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, finance, education, and services — technology is redefining the way we work and live,” Tan said.
Tan said PDX2026 was created with one clear purpose: to bring the entire digital ecosystem together under a unified platform — where technology providers meet industry adopters, startups meet investors, policymakers meet innovators, and, most importantly, small and medium enterprises remain prepared and competitive in today’s fast-moving digital landscape.
He also expressed appreciation to the state government, partners, participating organisations, exhibitors, sponsors and the organising committee for their strong support and commitment.
“Let us position Penang as the region’s leading hub for digital innovation and AI excellence,” he said.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Law Suun Ting