THE 15th edition of the Rise Global Summit of Tamil Entrepreneurs and Professionals, now underway in Penang, embodies the Tamil vision of unity, peace, and shared prosperity, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Organised by the Development of Human Resources for Rural Areas (DHRRA) Malaysia in partnership with the Penang government, this year’s summit marks its debut in Penang and the third time it has been hosted in Malaysia. The event runs from today (Aug 15) until Aug 17 at the Butterworth Arena.
Chow said Penang is proud to welcome 650 distinguished participants from more than 30 countries for the summit.
“It is a gathering where tradition meets technology, and stories of resilience meet strategies for global growth.
“For Penang, where the Tamil community makes up over eight percent of our population, this is more than an event; it is a celebration of a community that has, for generations, been a cornerstone of our progress.
“Tamil entrepreneurs have built businesses, advanced education, strengthened our technology base, and enriched public life with grit, adaptability, and vision, a quality the world needs now more than ever,” Chow said in his speech when he officiated the opening today.
He added that hosting the summit is not only an honour but also a clear statement of Penang’s openness.
“Open for ideas, open for partnerships, open for business. We want Tamil entrepreneurs everywhere to see Penang not only as a place of opportunity, but as a home, a launchpad into ASEAN, a hub for innovation, and a place where ambitions take root and flourish,” he said.
Chow said this year’s gathering is even more meaningful as it coincides with India’s 79th Independence Day.
“Today, Malaysia–India relations are strong, anchored by Malaysia’s leadership in ASEAN. Bilateral trade stands at USD20 billion, with Malaysia as India’s third-largest trading partner in ASEAN.
“Penang, contributing nearly 30% of Malaysia’s exports, is a vital link in this partnership. Tourism, too, is thriving as Indian tourist arrivals to Penang surged by 51% in 2024, strengthening people-to-people ties,” he added.
Meanwhile, DHRRA Malaysia president Datuk Saravanan Sinapan highlighted the significance of the event in enhancing global Tamil business and professional networks.
“The core objective of the summit is to strengthen the global network of Tamil entrepreneurs and professionals, particularly fostering connections with those in Malaysia,” he said.
Also present were Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu and The RISE Global founder Rev Dr Jegath Gaspar Raj.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat