THE new Penang Skills Development Centre (PSDC) chief executive officer E.T. Tan is a man on a mission as he set his sights on building and improving technology in Penang.
With a decorated portfolio in the field of technology, Tan said while Penang has what it takes to be equal or even better than Silicon Valley in delivering the best possible technology-based products, the one issue that needs immediate solution is the lack of interest in technology among the young people here.
“The issue right now is that our young people are not so interested in technology. They are interested in using technology, but we need people who want to build and improve the technology we have.
“That kind of thinking is needed if we wish to move to the next level because we don’t want to be caught in a situation that denies us the chance to stay in par with the speed the world is accelerating in terms of technological advancement.
“For that to happen, our state has got to tell more success stories, particularly milestones achieved by individuals or companies in the said area.
“For instance, you know the mouse that we use. It has an optical sensor which was developed by a team of high-tech innovators from Penang.
“Then, we have companies like Keysight Technologies. Their design headquarters is based here in Penang, and they are the ones who specialise in developing equipment used for testing 5G.
“These stories are important not only to influence and spark interest among the young people, but play an important role in influencing their parents as well,” Tan said during his courtesy call on Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow in Komtar today.
Tan, a Penangite and an alumnus from St Xavier’s Institution, took office as the new PSDC chief effective March 1.
He left Penang when he was 11 and started his working career abroad and gained substantial number of experiences in the hi-tech industry.
As the new chief at PSDC, Tan said the organisation had trained some 8,000 individuals last year, while 10,000 yearly just before the various series of movement control orders (MCOs).
“One of the things we are doing is working with Penang STEM, as well as parents, students and school leavers. We have got to excite them about technology.
“Students, especially those aged between 14 and 15, have a different perspective on technology. We have to share what’s easily understood for them.
“As a whole, I am truly proud to be part of this organisation and I look forward to achieving big things with my team here at PSDC,” Tan added.
Meanwhile, Chow hoped that PSDC will continue to play an important role to assist the state in addressing the issue of lack of local talent in the hi-tech industry.
“Many foreign companies are expanding here due to the advancement and standards we have set, but we need more local, young talents to fill the gap, or else, we have no choice but to continue importing foreign talents.
“I hope PSDC will do its part to assist the state to close this gap in the long-term,” Chow said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Law Suun Ting