MORE than RM80mil worth of high-end audio and visual systems were showcased at the Northern International Audio & Visual Show (NIAVS) 2026 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Penang, emphasising Penang’s growing appeal as a hub for high-value international business events.
The three-day exhibition, which ended last Sunday (April 19), featured 45 exhibitors representing brands from 11 countries, including Canada, the United States, Japan, China, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sweden, Italy, the Netherlands and Taiwan.
Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the strong international participation reflected the state’s rising profile as a destination for specialised, high-quality events.
“This clearly demonstrates the growing international appeal of Penang as a destination for specialised, high-quality business events,” he said at the opening ceremony on Friday (April 17).
Wong added that niche exhibitions such as NIAVS also played a role in strengthening the creative economy, going beyond products to encompass innovation, design and technology.
“A niche exhibition like this opens up new market segments, connects communities and creates opportunities for businesses, enthusiasts and consumers alike,” he said.
He noted that the event came at a meaningful time as Malaysia prepared for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, with such exhibitions helping to attract quality visitors and boost tourism spending.
Earlier, Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran said the show has grown significantly from its early days as a modest hotel-based showcase.
“Today, it has evolved into a large-scale convention event, allowing for greater international participation and enhanced visitor experience,” he said.
He said innovations such as the introduction of a “Sound Cabin”, believed to be the first in the Asia-Pacific, helped elevate the exhibition by allowing visitors to experience high-fidelity audio in a controlled environment.
Ashwin shared that strong demand from exhibitors also led to the expansion of the concept beyond Penang, including a similar event in Kuala Lumpur.
Event organiser Gryphon Production director Wilson Teoh said this year’s edition introduced new segments, including automotive audio and visual systems, alongside traditional home audio and theatre setups.
“We are looking at well over RM80mil worth of products on site, with some showrooms valued between RM2mil and RM4mil,” he said.
Wong said the exhibition also aligned with the Penang 2030 vision of building a family-focused, green and smart state, while generating economic impact across tourism, hospitality and related sectors.
“By hosting high-value and niche events like this, Penang continues to strengthen its position as a dynamic hub for innovation, talent and investment,” he said.
The opening ceremony included live performances and a token of appreciation presented to Wong.
The NIAVS 2026 drew audiophiles, industry professionals and the public over its three-day run.
Also present at the opening ceremony were Berapit assemblyman Heng Lee Lee, Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan, Setia SPICE Convention Centre head Oh Kin Tat and Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) Penang director Dr Annuar Mohamed.
