THE PW Gold and Silver (PWGS) Trade Fair 2024 kicked off in grand style today at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre, bringing together approximately 47 companies, and occupying 93 booths to display magnificent gold jewellery and exquisite jewellery designs.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the fair this year has attracted buyers from China, Vietnam, India, Myanmar, Singapore, Dubai, Yemen, Hong Kong, and beyond.
Officially starting today, the fair will end on Sunday (June 2).
“The gold and jewellery industry has long been a cornerstone of Malaysia’s economy, employing over 30,000 skilled craftsmen, designers and professionals.
“According to statistics by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), Malaysia exported RM7.7 billion worth of gold jewellery products in 2023, compared to RM7.39 billion in 2022.
“From January to February 2024, Malaysia exported RM1.29 billion worth of gold jewellery products, showing growth from RM1.09 billion during the same period in 2023. This highlights our country’s increasing reputation as a centre for high-quality jewellery.
“It is worth noting that Penang is Malaysia’s core hub for jewellery manufacturing.
“About 80% of Malaysia’s gold jewellery exports originate from jewellers in Penang.
“The exquisite craftsmanship and diversity of jewellery products from Penang are among the key attractions for domestic and international tourists,” Wong said in his speech during the PW Gold and Silver (PWGS) Trade Fair 2024 opening ceremony this morning.
Among those present during the event were Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) chief executive officer Azman Tambi Chik, Matrade lifestyle and life sciences director Razida Hanim Abdul Razak and Federation of Goldsmiths and Silver Ornaments Association (FGJAM) president Datuk Chiah Hock Yew.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis