PENANG will incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a key driver of the state's competitiveness and long-term economic sustainability, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said today.
He said AI will be pivotal in enhancing digital education, streamlining public services and nurturing entrepreneurship under the state’s Penang2030 Vision.
"With a strong emphasis on a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy, AI is now identified as a key enabler of long-term competitiveness and sustainability.
"AI plays a crucial role in empowering digital education, enhancing the efficiency of smart public services, and stimulating the growth of digital entrepreneurship," he said.
Chow was speaking at the launch of AI Horizon 2025, a one-day event jointly organised by Tech Dome Penang, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), HRD Corp, Penang Island City Council (MBPP), the State Education Department (JPNPP) and Penang STEM.
Also present was Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo.
He said that the Penang Digital Economy Master Plan (2025-2030) outlines three main development components: business digitalisation, the development of local digital talent, and the strengthening of the start-up and high-tech ecosystem, including the construction of AI hubs and data centres.
“This is not merely a technology exhibition, but a strategic platform to strengthen the understanding, application and innovation of AI at the national and global levels,” he said.
“Under the Penang2030 vision of becoming a ‘Family-Focused, Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’, AI plays a critical role in enhancing digital education, improving smart public services, boosting digital entrepreneurship and cultivating an inclusive innovation economy,” he said.
“Penang has long been a national technology hub. As we shift to a knowledge- and innovation-based economy, AI is critical for sustained growth and global relevance,” he added.
Chow also urged for AI Horizon 2025 to be more than a one-off annual event, but rather a long-term strategic agenda to position Penang and Malaysia as a responsible and ethical AI innovation hub in the region and globally.
The event brought together more than 50 local and international tech firms and over 50 strategic partners. - August 8, 2025
