CO-WORKING spaces are increasingly popular in Penang as the younger generation prefers to work in a cozier and more comfortable environment.
They do not fancy working in a ‘conventional’ confined space, clocking in at 9am and out at 6pm.
This new mindset has resulted in more co-working spaces being set up in Penang, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yew said.
“These new working spots are patronised by start-up entrepreneurs, freelancers and anyone who wishes to have discussions, conduct researches or study.
“I am thrilled that Common Ground has chosen Penang to be the first non-Klang Valley venue in Malaysian shores,” Chow said in his speech on Feb 13.
Chow said that technology and startup ecosystem in Malaysia had been thriving rapidly over the past few years.
“Penang has indeed become more innovative, ‘startup-friendly’ and digitally equipped.
“The launching of Common Ground Penang here at Moulmein Rise Shoppes could not have come at a better time.
“The opening of Common Ground supports the state’s Penang2030 vision to be part of the Industry 4.0 transformation,” he added.
Common Ground co-founder and chief executive officer Juhn Teo said Common Ground worked hard to create a synergetic and diverse co-working community.
“We firmly believe that Penang is the perfect location and we could not be more thrilled to see this collaboration takes off.
“Common Ground Penang’s 18,000sq ft space is fully equipped with workspaces, amenities, and services.
“We hope that Common Ground Penang provides the infrastructure for the business community here and facilitates growth of the social ecosystem in the state,” Teo said.
Belleview Group managing director Datuk Sonny Ho said the Group’s latest development, Moulmein Rise, provides the perfect infrastructure for Common Ground to realise its vision.
“We aim to contribute to the state’s social and economic growth through our partnership with Common Ground,” he said.
On a separate matter, Chow said the 23rd edition of the World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT2020) would be held in Penang.
“This is akin to the ‘Olympics on Information Technology’. It will involve a lot of stakeholders.
“Penang is working on various smart initiatives. We have just confirmed the appointment of a company to work on the smart parking system in Penang. Announcement will be made soon.
“I believe that we are the first in the region to have the facial recognition CCTV to combat crime.
“On the state Digital Transformation proposal, we have decided to set up a Digital Penang Unit.
“It could be a company or another offshoot from Penang Development Corporation (PDC). We have not decided yet.
“This unit will spearhead the growth of the Digital Transformation Plan. We are serious about it.
“The unit is scheduled to be set up next month (March),” he said.
Chow added that all those initiatives would accelerate the Penang2030 vision.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Alissala Thian