THE spirit of unity and collaboration took centre stage at the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) Penang and Northern Branch Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri luncheon, which brought together industry players and business leaders in a celebration of diversity, partnership and economic resilience.
The afternoon was dedicated to networking, drawing hundreds of industry players representing a wide range of expertise at G-Hotel in George Town today.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the dual festive celebration reflected the essence of Malaysia as a nation built on unity in diversity.
“Penang takes great pride in this diversity. It is one of our greatest strengths and has enabled us to build a vibrant society and a dynamic economy,” he said, adding that gatherings such as this provide a vital platform to strengthen relationships, foster mutual understanding and deepen collaboration within the business community.
Looking back at Penang’s economic performance, Chow highlighted the state’s continued leadership in high-value manufacturing, reinforcing its reputation as the Silicon Valley of the East.
“In 2025, Penang recorded a total approved manufacturing investment of RM22.4 billion, a 29% increase from 2024. Notably, 68% of the total comprised foreign direct investments, reflecting continued confidence from global investors in Penang’s strong industrial ecosystem,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that the electrical and electronics (E&E) sector remained the key driver of the manufacturing landscape, attracting RM11.3 billion in investments and accounting for more than half of total approved manufacturing investments for the year.
He added that Penang maintained its position as Malaysia’s top exporting state, recording RM574.1 billion in exports in 2025, contributing 36% of the nation’s total exports. Of this, RM436.9 billion came from E&E exports, representing 68% of Malaysia’s total E&E exports.
“These figures reaffirm Penang’s position as a key pillar of Malaysia’s industrial and export performance,” he said.
Chow also highlighted the Penang ATE Campus initiative under the National Semiconductor Strategy, led by InvestPenang, to support the equipment manufacturing sector and accelerate innovation across advanced packaging, integrated device manufacturing, electronics manufacturing services, medical technology and semiconductor equipment manufacturing.
“The initiative has already gained encouraging traction within the industry, and its success will depend on strong collaboration between MNCs and local companies through knowledge sharing, supplier development and technology partnerships to strengthen supply chain resilience,” he said.
Despite ongoing global and geopolitical uncertainties, Chow stressed that Penang remains a sustainable and competitive investment destination supported by strong fundamentals and a robust industrial ecosystem.
Meanwhile, MICCI Penang and Northern Branch chairman Datuk Brian Tan Guan Hooi described the event as more than a festive luncheon, but a celebration of connection within the Penang business community.
He said the shared celebrations of Chinese New Year and Hari Raya reflected common values of gratitude, goodwill, generosity and togetherness across traditions.
“These festive values mirror the leadership and business values we hold dear, trust, respect, cooperation and shared purpose,” he said, adding that strong relationships underpin confidence, collaboration and long-term growth.
Tan also highlighted Penang’s strengths in adaptability, perseverance, innovation and cooperation, noting that businesses are currently navigating geopolitical tensions, shifting trade patterns, supply chain disruptions, rising costs, talent pressures and technological change.
“Uncertainty tests our strategies, resilience and adaptability. But with the right leadership, partnerships and mindset, these uncertainties can be transformed into opportunities,” he said.
He added that MICCI, now 189 years old, continues to serve as a bridge and platform for dialogue, alignment and partnership-building, while thanking members, partners, sponsors and the media for their continued support.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan