PENANG has the potential to excel in digital economy and other technology-related fields, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
As digitalisation now becomes part of the workforce, Chow said it was important for the digital economy to be prioritised.
“This new wave encouraged us to embrace digitalisation,” he said in his speech before launching the Community Digital Academy Resource Centre initiated by the Central Muslim Society at Persatuan Hidayatul Islam in Kedah Road today.
Chow said Penang produced 5% of the worldwide chips, thanks to the efforts of multinational corporations (MNCs) in Penang.
“The state has continued to propel itself to greater heights despite being the second smallest state in the country.
“Penang does not have many natural resources. However, the effort and determination of the state government and the people have lifted the state to greater heights,” he added.
Chow commended the initiative by the Central Muslim Society over the opening of the Community Digital Academy Resource Centre.
“It is a good beginning and we hope that more such centres can be set up in other places too.
“This is in line with the state’s initiative to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education,” Chow added.
Chow said he looked forward to a strong collaboration between the Central Muslim Society and Penang Science Cluster (PSC) in the future.
Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui Ying, who was present, was pleased with the establishment of the centre.
“It is an institution to strengthen the digital knowledge among the community, especially in this digitalisation era.
“I hope this centre will become a well-known institution in the future which can inculcate the importance of digital knowledge,” Lim, who is also Tanjong MP, said.
Central Muslim Society president Mohamed Hasan Othuman said the centre could benefit needy students.
Among those present were Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Penang Science Cluster chief executive officer Datuk Ooi Peng Ee and Central Muslim Society members.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis