Penang seeks matching grants for chip park, academy

PENANG will negotiate with the federal government for matching grants to develop a proposed integrated chip design park and a chip design academy.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said this following a meeting with Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, adding that the state and federal sides have agreed on a creative approach to stimulate development.

"This approach is needed to ensure that the local industry players can be on par with the multinational corporations," said Chow on Facebook.

He said the electronics and electrical sector could be further enhanced with the involvement of government-linked companies and the public sector.

Penang will showcase its "Penang STEM Talent Blueprint" initiative to unearth new talents in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, said Chow.

This aims to address the acute shortage of skilled STEM workers.

Penang is also eyeing a major infrastructure project – the elevated highway around the Sungai Dua interchange near Butterworth. It is regarded as the most congested stretch of road in the state. – June 22, 2024.