Chow (centre) receiving a copy of Samenta’s ‘Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence’ from Kwan. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
AN ARTIFICIAL intelligence (AI) readiness census among Penang’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is crucial before targeted support for digital transformation can be rolled out.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow urged the Small and Medium Enterprises Association Malaysia (Samenta) to conduct a comprehensive survey as many companies were unsure how to start adopting new technology despite growing interest.
“A proper census will allow the state, agencies and industry partners to design support programmes.
“While more companies have begun incorporating digital solutions, hesitation creates gaps within Penang’s economic landscape.”
He encouraged Samenta to work closely with Digital Penang and InvestPenang after completing the AI-readiness census to identify precise gaps and tailor assistance accordingly.
“If Penang wants to become an advanced economy, acceleration in AI adoption will be critical,” he said when launching a book titled Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence at a hotel in George Town.
Chow added that the shift to modern technology was now imperative.
“Two or three years ago, we might have called it a future plan, but today it is a necessity.
“Digital tools have become increasingly accessible and affordable for businesses of all sizes.”
Chow also highlighted Penang’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its digital foundation, including the Digital Economy Master Plan 2025-2030 launched in August, which targeted raising the state’s gross domestic product (GDP) to RM156bil and creating 50,000 digital jobs by 2030.
“It has four pillars comprising digital government, digital economy, digital society and digital foundations.
“Penang contributes 7% to Malaysia’s GDP and hosts more than 90 global business service companies,” he said, while noting the state’s strong footing in the digital sector.
Chow also addressed concerns about AI taking over jobs saying people must equip themselves with the right skills to remain relevant.
The new book aimed to demystify AI for the general public using simple terms and illustrations.
“I believe this book will inspire young talent and contribute to Penang and Malaysia’s AI-driven future.”
Samenta deputy national president and northern region chairman Calvin Kwan said copies would be donated to schools.
Also present at the Samenta book launch were Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) School of Computing deputy director and the book’s author, Dr Mohamad Sabri Sinal @ Zainal, Samenta national president Datuk William Ng, YTL Communications chief executive officer Wing K. Lee, AI Labs chief executive officer Foong Chee Mun and chartered logistician Cefinny Teh.
