Penang launches sharing integrative platform to reduce shortage in key high-skilled areas

PENANG launched a sharing integrative platform called the ‘Talent Focus Group’ (TFG) to strengthen the talent pipeline in the state, with a single aim of reducing acute shortage in key high-skilled areas such as engineering.

TFG is a collaborative platform between the state government and the private sector, and it will see industry experts, namely human resources (HR) practitioners, advocating and advising the state government on talent-related strategies, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

Spearheaded by key investment agency - InvestPenang, TFG is viewed as a crucial step towards achieving and addressing the long-term talent issue in Penang.

It will see the agency oversee the planning and implementation of initiatives, facilitating stakeholder engagement and supporting the execution of talent-related strategies aligned with Penang’s economic and workforce development priorities.

Chow, who launched the platform at the St Giles Wembley Hotel earlier today, commended InvestPenang, as well as making a special mention of the industry players who have committed to providing their time and expertise for the betterment of a resilient workforce.

“TFG is about creating a stronger and more coordinated approach towards developing, attracting, and retaining talent for Penang’s future. By investing in our workers, strengthening collaboration, and embracing new technologies responsibly, we can ensure that Penang remains competitive, resilient, and future-ready,” Chow said.

Some 500 students, graduates, young professionals, returnees, HR practitioners, industry leaders, and academics gathered at the event today to explore career opportunities, emerging technologies and the evolving future of work in the age of artificial intelligence (AI).

Chow reiterated that Penang recorded RM32.9 billion in approved investments in 2025, ranked fourth among Malaysia’s leading investment destinations.

Of this amount, RM22.4 billion came from the manufacturing sector, while RM10.5 billion originated from the services sector. - June 9, 2026.