PENANG and Sweden share long-standing and healthy bilateral ties, particularly in areas of sustainability, green transition and practices, digitalisation, and transportation.
Ambassador of Sweden to Malaysia, Dr Joachim Bergstrom said Penang is a dynamic part of Malaysia and is often now being used as a launching pad by foreign investors to other economies in the ASEAN region.
“Overall, Malaysia is garnering attention due to its high standard of living, widespread use of English, and relative affordability for investors looking to operate or expand within the region.
“Penang is a fantastic place and it has an interesting fabric of culture, legacy, literacy, and history, making the state an attractive investment area for European industries,” Dr Bergstrom said in his speech during a cocktail reception in conjunction with the regional meeting of Swedish ambassadors to ASEAN countries at Cheong Fatt Tze, The Blue Mansion in George Town today.
According to Dr Bergstrom, Swedish ambassadors in the ASEAN countries were in Penang last weekend for a retreat to discuss their challenges, work, and common agenda.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was also present during the reception, said that Penang was glad to be the centre of investment for foreign investors, including those from Sweden.
“Nordic countries, especially Sweden, have enjoyed a good working relationship with Penang for a long time now, and we hope to continue with this collaboration for a sustainable future.
“In the current geopolitical climate and amid supply chain disruptions, it is crucial to attract investments from diverse sources and countries, avoiding over-reliance on any single nation or region.
“We aim to strengthen our collaboration with Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, to boost their investments in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
“While this is a key focus, it is equally important to enhance areas like talent development, which can be pivotal in making these collaborations a reality.
“We need a robust talent pool to support this kind of collaboration.
“This must be done to ensure we create a comprehensive ecosystem for the next generation of leaders,” Chow said in his speech.
Also present during the reception earlier were state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen and InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar