PENANG today took a step forward in its digital transformation initiative with the launch of the 42 Penang Campus in George Town, which is the newest coding school that aims to nurture a new generation of tech talent.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow officiated the launch and hailed the initiative as a strategic milestone under the state’s Penang2030 vision.
Located in the heart of George Town, the campus is the result of a collaboration between the state government, Digital Penang, and 42 Malaysia.
“Penang has always been defined by its adaptability. Our state has proven time and again that we can evolve to meet global demands.
“Today, as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and digital transformation reshape industries, we recognise that infrastructure and capital alone will not secure our place in the new economy.
“We must cultivate an ecosystem where talent, ideas, and enterprise thrive in tandem,” Chow said during the event held at Wisma Yeap Chor Ee.
The 42 Penang Campus adopts the globally renowned 42 education model, which is peer-to-peer, project-based, and fully tuition-free.
The campus will train students in software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, with a focus on real-world projects and mentorship from industry leaders.
Chow said the initiative supports Penang’s broader innovation agenda, which includes efforts like the Creative Digital District, Penang Silicon Design @5km+, and the forthcoming Digital Economy Master Plan 2.0.
“These initiatives aim to bolster the state’s standing as a digital economy hub through strategic investments in cloud computing, smart manufacturing, and other emerging sectors,” he said.
In addition to equipping youth with high-value digital skills, the 42 Penang Campus is envisioned as a catalyst for entrepreneurship.
Chow highlighted complementary programmes such as StartupPenang500 and the Hardtech & Deeptech Commercialisation Accelerator, which aim to help graduates turn their skills and ideas into globally competitive ventures.
“We envision a dynamic ecosystem where education, entrepreneurship, and innovation are deeply interconnected,” Chow added.
Chow also called on corporations, small-medium enterprises (SMEs), academic institutions, and community organisations to support the 42 Penang Campus through partnerships in mentorship, project collaboration, internships, and employment opportunities.
He expressed his gratitude to Sunway Education Group, Khazanah’s Dana Impak, and other partners for their support in making the 42 Penang Campus a reality.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, who was present during the remarkable event, lauded the collaboration by the relevant parties in making this a successful launch.
“I visited 42 Kuala Lumpur eight months ago, where I witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MyDigital Corporation and 42 Malaysia.
“We want to ensure no one is left behind in our aim to turn Malaysia into a digital nation,” he said, expressing his gratitude to all involved in making this a reality in Penang.
Gobind is looking forward to creating digital inclusivity, with a school that trains thinkers, builders, and problem solvers.
“I hope the industry players in Penang can work to shape the talents in the state,” he added.
Sunway Education Group chief executive officer Datuk Dr Elizabeth Lee was proud to champion the innovative model of learning together with the support of the state and Digital Penang.
“42 Penang reflects our belief in empowering youth with future-forward education,” she said.
Among those present were state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Penang Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) chief executive officer Anuar Fariz Fadzil, Khazanah Dana Impak director Kayse Soo, Sunway iLabs chief executive officer Matt van Leuwen, 42 Malaysia chief executive officer Jeff Sandhu, and Digital Penang chief executive officer Ng Kwang Ming.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Alissala Thian