PENANG Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow wants the local workforce not to be intimidated by the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as it is just a progress in new technology.
It is not aimed at replacing workers, said Chow.
AI of today is no longer confined to the realm of possibility, but it is already reshaping the way Penangites live, work, and do business, he underscored.
Chow said this when opening the 7th Penang GBS Conference 2025, themed ‘AI in Action: Transforming the Future of GBS.
GBS stands for Global Business Services, an outsourcing element in the state's transformation from a labour-intensive manufacturing hub into a skills-driven one.
To support the growth of GBS, Chow announced the establishment of a new (GBS@Technoplex) facility, a cutting-edge, premium green office complex within the Bayan Lepas Technoplex.
It is targeted to be completed by 2028, but he stressed that it will only be available if the state authorities can secure up to 40% interest among GBS operators.
“This 10‑storey, GBI‑certified development will feature a high floor loading capacity of 5kN, flexible layout design, a 100% backup power supply, and EV‑ready facilities.
“Purpose-built for GBS, IC Design, R&D, and digital companies, it will set a new benchmark for sustainable business environments,” Chow said.
Addressing concerns over AI replacing human talent, Chow acknowledged the talent crunch in AI-related jobs.
“While people often say AI will replace human talent, the reality is that it is difficult to hire skilled professionals for AI-related roles. Our focus is on upskilling human talent to meet these AI job requirements,” he said.
Chow also revealed that Penang is now home to over 90 GBS and shared services companies, employing more than 20,000 skilled professionals, reinforcing its status as a thriving digital hub.
“It is important to note that Penang is the only state with a dedicated series of GBS buildings developed by the state, underscoring how serious and committed we are to advancing this industry.
Among the GBS facilities in Penang are GBS@Mayang, GBS@Mahsuri, GBS TechSpace, and GBS By The Sea, all situated within the Penang IC Design & Digital Park,” Chow said. - November 14, 2025.
