THE Penang government calls for more industry support and partnerships in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) initiatives to help cultivate an industry-ready talent pool.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said this during the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers Penang (FMM Penang) 54th Anniversary Dinner 2023 at Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Bayan Lepas today.
“The state government is committed to growing the talent pool in Penang as it aspires to attract 150,000 knowledge workers over the next five years to meet the increased industrial demand.
“We need more industry support and partnerships to make this happen,” Chow said in his speech.
Chow said the state government acknowledges the importance of public-private partnerships.
“Penang, via InvestPenang and other state agencies, remains committed to further strengthening the collaboration with FMM Penang to become an integrated voice for the industry and enhance the ease of doing business.
“We will continue to spearhead the development of a sustainable ecosystem. This includes the physical and digital infrastructure, workforce, environment, and liveability,” he said.
According to Chow, the vibrant industry in Penang did not emerge overnight.
“Instead, it represents the culmination of strategic planning and execution by both the state and the private sector.
“The state is blessed to have FMM Penang’s unwavering support throughout its industrialisation journey.
“Boasting a legacy of over 50 years of industrial excellence, Penang’s well-developed ecosystem not only enabled the state to move up the value chain but has also yielded profound impacts on the local economy,” Chow added.
Also present during the FMM Penang 54th anniversary dinner were Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, state Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol, state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, FMM Penang chairman Datuk Lee Teong Li and FMM president Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai.
Speaking about the anniversary dinner, Lee said the 54th anniversary was a significant milestone for FMM Penang.
“FMM Penang branch was established in 1969 and we have been the voice of the manufacturing industry for more than half a century.
“We are still growing, thanks to the strong support of our members, the Penang government and its agencies, and other stakeholders.
“Without the support, FMM Penang would not be what it is today.
“We look forward to your continuous support. We will strive together with all the stakeholders to make Penang the first choice for local and foreign investors.
“We look forward to continuing this close cooperation, and upholding the essence of the Malaysia Madani concept,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat