THE Penang Go Digital Carnival concluded with great success, attracting over 1,000 visitors and underscoring Penang’s dedication to fostering digital transformation.
The event, organised in collaboration with Digital Penang, featured more than 40 exhibitors and 10 knowledge-sharing workshops and tech-focused sessions.
Attendees engaged with industry experts, local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and government agencies, gaining valuable insights into digital advancements.
The carnival offered interactive experiences, such as virtual reality (VR) booths and e-sports competitions, which captivated young talent and encouraged greater engagement in the digital industry.
Digital Penang chief executive officer Ng Kwang Ming said the Penang Go Digital Carnival was organised to drive digital transformation among local communities and businesses.
“Its goal was to create a platform fostering innovation and collaboration within the digital ecosystem.
“Digital transformation is essential for economic progress and community well-being.
“Adopting new technologies is critical to boosting competitiveness and efficiency in today’s globalised era,” he said.
During the closing ceremony, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow praised Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, the Digital Penang committee, partners, and sponsors for their dedication.
Expressing his pride, the Chief Minister said: “I am truly proud of this event, which reflects the vibrant and progressive digital community here in Penang, an essential pillar in building a competitive, advanced, and sustainable society.”
He highlighted the work of Digital Penang in enhancing digital literacy and supporting entrepreneurship.
“Digital Penang has been pivotal in raising digital literacy through workshops, social media application classes, and initiatives for SMEs.
“We are seeing tangible benefits, with some SMEs increasing their revenues by as much as 30%,” he shared.
While recognising the strides made in digital adoption, the Chief Minister also acknowledged the challenges ahead.
“We cannot deny that a digital divide still exists within our communities, including here in Penang.
“To bridge this gap, I call on government agencies, industry leaders, private sector players, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to work hand in hand to ensure equitable access to digital technologies and skills,” Chow said.
Reaffirming the state’s commitment to positioning Penang as a leading digital hub, he urged Penangites to embrace digital opportunities.
“With more events like this, I hope to see more Penangites stepping up to explore new opportunities in the digital space, particularly in e-commerce,” he said, encouraging public participation in programmes offered by Digital Penang and other state agencies.
Chow concluded by thanking event sponsors and partners for their steadfast support.
Also present were state Trade, Entrepreneurial Development and Rural Development Committee chairman Datuk Rashidi Zinol, Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, and Penang Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim.
Joining them were Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao-Leung, Bagan Jermal assemblyman Chee Yeeh Keen, and Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis