Ministry of Digital Bolsters Northern Region at Malaysia Digital Open Day 2025 in Penang

GEORGE TOWN, April 29, 2025 — The Ministry of Digital doubled down on its commitment to digital transformation in Penang and Malaysia’s northern states during the Malaysia Digital (MD) Open Day 2025 in George Town today, showcasing initiatives to drive innovation, inclusion, and economic growth.

Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo emphasized the northern corridor—Penang, Perlis, Kedah, and Perak—as a powerhouse for Malaysia’s development.

“Our focus is ensuring digital technology benefits every corner of the nation,” he said.

The event highlighted recent milestones, including the launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) to promote ethical AI development and the Data Sharing Act 2025, effective yesterday, which strengthens inter-agency collaboration and data-driven governance. The Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI), spearheaded by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), is also empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to embrace digital tools.

Malaysia Digital (MD) 2025 has fueled significant growth, with 3,891 active MD companies nationwide, including 254 in the northern region. From January to mid-April 2025, newly approved MD companies committed RM16.2 billion in investments, projected to create 6,480 jobs over five years.

Data centers and cloud investments lead the charge, accounting for over 60% of the total.

Foreign investor confidence remains robust, with major contributions from the Netherlands, Singapore, Hong Kong, India, and the UK. Penang alone secured RM1.23 billion in MD-approved investments, expected to generate 266 jobs, primarily in high-value fields like integrated circuit design and embedded software.

To strengthen regional ties, the Ministry established the Ministry of Digital Northern Office in Penang, a hub to connect Penang, Kedah, Perak, and Perlis with national digital programs and talent development initiatives.

“This office will ensure national policies meet local needs,” Gobind said.

Looking ahead, Malaysia will host the Malaysia AI Summit 2025 and Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025, cementing its status as a regional tech hub. With Penang’s semiconductor and tech ecosystem thriving, the Ministry, alongside MDEC, is poised to shape a bold, inclusive digital future for Malaysia.