Chow (second from left) launching Penang Week at the World Expo in Osaka, Japan where the state was promoted as a regional hub for high-tech manufacturing, sustainable development and tourism.
PENANG had a chance to showcase its high-impact projects and wow visitors to the Malaysia Pavilion with its culture and heritage at the ongoing World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
During Penang Week, the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) and Penang Development Corporation (PDC) promoted the state as a regional hub for high-tech manufacturing, sustainable development and tourism.
Miti adopted a whole-of-government approach, boosting international visibility and attracting new partnerships, said PDC chief executive officer Datuk Aziz Bakar.
“Penang Week (Sept 21-26) reinforced our standing as one of Malaysia’s leading economic engines and complements PDC’s RM5bil Strategic Plan 2024-2028, which features 15 high-impact projects and 1,200ha of new industrial land.”
Among them are The Coast, a RM839mil waterfront landmark integrating serviced apartments, commercial space and corporate offices, targeted for completion in 2030.
Others include The Penang Linear Waterfront, a RM9.86bil reclamation project featuring a global business services (GBS) district, transport hub, serviced apartments, business hotel and lifestyle mall along an 8km seaside promenade.
The Batu Kawan Industrial Park 3 covers 252ha of prime industrial land designed to support electrical and electronics, semiconductors, automotive, logistics and other high-value industries.
Wong (third from left) with the ‘kebaya’ and batik models from the fashion shows that were hot tickets at the World Expo 2025.
The Penang Green Industrial Park is the state’s first dedicated green industrial hub, promoting renewable energy adoption and sustainable operations.
The Penang International Logistics Aeropark is a RM1bil integrated air cargo and logistics hub at Penang International Airport, positioning Penang as a premier logistics gateway.
Meanwhile, Medi-City, a RM17.7bil healthcare and lifestyle hub in Bandar Cassia, is set to drive medical tourism while creating thousands of jobs.
GBS @ Technoplex is a RM275mil redevelopment project in the heart of Technoplex to house digital GBS, integrated circuit (IC) design, research and development (R&D) and engineering services companies.
“Through these projects, Penang demonstrates our commitment to building a resilient, future-ready economy while enhancing our role as a leading global hub for technology, sustainability and investment,” said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Meanwhile, Penang’s cultural heritage, recognised by Unesco, also drew attention at the expo.
The Nyonya kebaya, batik and breakfast favourites like nasi lemak and roti canai served at the pavilion cafe, left a lasting impression on visitors.
“They were willing to queue for hours every morning just to get a taste of these Malaysian flavours,” said state tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wei.
The highlight was the flying roti canai by chefs Aiman and Muiz from Penaga’s Roti Canai Mamu.
“Their skill at flipping the dough in the air won loud applause,” he added.
Wong said models would take to the stage to showcase kebaya and batik outfits everyday at 4pm outside the Malaysia Pavilion.
“These shows became one of the most sought-after programmes of that time slot in the expo grounds.
“When the models appeared in their elegant kebaya or vibrant batik, all eyes were on them,” he said, adding that the shows were packed with visitors who even wanted to take pictures with the models and try on the outfits.
“After savouring our food and seeing the kebaya and batik, many visitors may be inspired to experience Penang’s culture and tourism first-hand.”
The expo ends on Oct 13. — By ARNOLD LOH
