PENANG has the potential to host an international forum and convention, based on its track record of successfully holding a series of prestigious events, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
During a courtesy visit by the Malaysia Lions’ delegation represented by their past chairmen, Chow expressed his support of their bidding to host the Orient and Southeast Asia Lions (OSEAL) Forum 2026 from Nov 12 to 15. He emphasised Penang is no stranger to hosting international events.
“We have successfully organised such forums previously and we believe we can accommodate this one, should we be given the opportunity.
“I fully support the bid to host the OSEAL Forum in Penang and hope it will be given the green light.
“In fact, the huge Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), expected to be completed by mid-next year, is expected to attract many international conventions to Penang,” he said.
Following the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, Chow pointed out the state’s strong rebound in the tourism sector, with a significant surge in visitors.
“The relaxation of China and India’s visa policies, coupled with an increasing number of international direct flights, particularly from China and Hong Kong, has boosted the influx of tourists to the state,” said Chow.
The forum organising committee chairman, Datuk Ooi Chao Syhuan, expressed his hopes that the regional forum would take place in Penang.
“The proposed venue is the Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Bayan Lepas, and we are currently in discussions to bring the forum here.
“It has been 20 years since the last such forum took place in Malaysia,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian