PRESS RELEASE
MINISTRY OF DIGITAL STRENGTHENS COMMITMENT TO NORTHERN REGION AT MALAYSIA DIGITAL OPEN DAY 2025 IN PENANG
GEORGE TOWN, April 29, 2025 – The Ministry of Digital reaffirmed its commitment to driving digital transformation in Penang and neighbouring states at the Malaysia Digital (MD) Open Day 2025 held in George Town, Penang this morning.
The event celebrated the progress of digital initiatives and the collaborative efforts propelling Malaysia into a new era of innovation, inclusion, opportunity, and prosperity.
The Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo, highlighted the significance of the northern corridor, encompassing Penang, Perlis, Kedah, and Perak, hailing it as a vital engine of Malaysia's growth. The Ministry of Digital is focused on ensuring that the benefits of digital technology reach every corner of the nation.
In recent months, the Ministry of Digital has undertaken significant initiatives to bolster Malaysia's digital foundations. These include the launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) to guide the ethical, inclusive, and secure development of artificial intelligence (AI).
Additionally, the Data Sharing Act 2025, that came into effect yesterday, provides a robust framework for inter-agency collaboration at the federal level and data-driven decision-making. The Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI), led by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), aims to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in adopting digital technologies.
These efforts contribute to the broader goals of Malaysia Digital (MD) 2025, which has seen significant success. Currently, Malaysia is home to 3,891 active MD companies, with 254 located in the northern region. Newly approved MD companies have pledged RM16.2 billion in investments from January to mid-April 2025, and are projected to generate 6,480 jobs over the next five years. Notably, Data Centre and Cloud investments are at the forefront, comprising over 60% of the total investment. Investor confidence in Malaysia remains strong, with significant foreign direct investment coming from countries such as the Netherlands, Singapore, Hong Kong, India, and the United Kingdom. This confidence underscores Malaysia's attractiveness as a leading digital investment destination.
Looking ahead, Malaysia is set to host the Malaysia AI Summit 2025 and the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025. These events will further solidify Malaysia's position as a regional technology hub for digital innovation and sustainable urban development.
Recognising the importance of state-level implementation, the Ministry of Digital has established the Ministry of Digital Northern Office in Penang. This strategic hub will serve Penang, Kedah, Perak, and Perlis, connecting local stakeholders with national programs and support for talent development and the digital ecosystem.
Penang is an important state in Malaysia’s digital economy, particularly given the large presence of semiconductor and technology companies, and its growing digital economy.
Penang alone has attracted RM1.23 billion in MD-approved investments, expected to create 266 jobs. While a significant portion of these investments is in Data Centre and Cloud, over 60% of the job opportunities are in high-value sectors like integrated circuit (IC) design and embedded software.
The Ministry of Digital’s presence in Penang will facilitate better understanding of local needs, faster action, and ensure that national policies effectively benefit the region. The Ministry of Digital, in collaboration with MDEC and the support of various stakeholders, is committed to shaping a bold, inclusive, and innovation-led digital future for Malaysia.
-END-
Issued by:
Office of the Minister
Ministry of Digital, Malaysia
