IT WAS a dazzling evening of elegance and celebration as over 400 distinguished guests from Malaysia and abroad gathered for the INPenang International Awards 2025.
The biennial black-tie gala dinner, often regarded as the most prestigious social gathering in Penang, was held at the St Giles Wembley Hotel, George Town.
Dignitaries, business leaders, philanthropists, cultural figures and members of the media were impeccably dressed in formal attire as tributes were paid to achievements rooted in Penang.
In his welcoming speech, awards founder and president Datuk Ch’ng Huck Teng remarked how Penang’s social landscape had evolved over the years.
“Years ago, people would tell me that Penangites would not dress up for formal dining.
“Today, we are here all dressed in black, showing how far we’ve come. This is truly Penang’s grandest night,” he said, drawing applause from the crowd.
The INPenang International Awards honour Penang-born individuals and organisations founded or based in the state.
Nominees have made outstanding contributions to society.
This year, 17 recipients were recognised for their excellence, innovation and service to the community.
Among the top honours of the night was the INPenang Lifetime Achievement Award that was presented to Datuk Andrew Lim Tatt Keong.
Lim is the Mercato, TMC and Gama group executive chairman, and president of the Malaysian Retailers Association.
His decades of leadership and dedication in shaping the local and national retail landscape were lauded with a standing ovation.
Another highlight of the evening was the INPenang International Outstanding Achievers Award that was conferred on Hong Kong-based Value Partners Group honorary chairman and non-executive director Datuk Seri Cheah Cheng Hye.
The Penang-born global fund manager was recognised for his contributions in the international financial sector.
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim, who officiated the event, took the opportunity to highlight Penang’s growing role on the world stage, especially in the high-tech manufacturing sector.
“Penang is now a semiconductor hub of the world, contributing 7% to the global supply.
“This is the time to shine a global spotlight on the ‘Made in Penang’ brand,” said Sim.
He also outlined major infrastructure projects to boost connectivity and tourism in the state.
These include the expansion of the Penang International Airport, the upcoming cable car system and the long-awaited Light Rail Transit project.
One of the most talked-about moments of the evening was the charity auction of two pieces of exclusive fine jewellery.
These were from the Heirloom Series presented by One East Museum and Gallery in George Town, and had been created specially for the awards.
The first piece, titled “Heritage Mosaic”, was a dazzling tribute to Penang’s rich cultural legacy.
It featured intertwined Pinang trees crafted from diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds.
The second piece, an 18K gold masterpiece inspired by the Malaysian wau, was adorned with luminous sapphires and 38 diamonds.
Both pieces captivated the audience with their detail and meaning.
Also present were state housing and environment committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo, Penang island mayor Datuk A. Rajendra and Penang Chinese Town Hall chairman Tan Sri Tan Khoon Hai.
Malaysian Association of Hotels Penang chapter chairman Datuk Tony Goh and Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan were also present.
The awards ceremony was organised by CHTNetwork, with Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation as event partner, Affin Invikta as the main sponsor, and supported by The Hour Glass, AirAsia, vivo, Aim Max Media, UB Group and One East Museum.
