PENANG COMMITTED TO BUILDING FOUNDATION ON TECHNOLOGICAL EXCELLENCE, INDUSTRIAL EXPERTISE

GEORGE TOWN, Nov 6 (Bernama) -- The Penang government is dedicated to establishing a foundation rooted in technological excellence and industrial expertise, positioning itself as a leader in high-tech manufacturing and a key player in the global supply chain.

Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo said the state’s focus is on creating an ecosystem that supports the entire innovation journey - from university research through to commercialisation and market entry.

“Recognised as Malaysia's Silicon Valley, Penang’s strength provides a powerful platform for advancing technology and developing human capital,” he said.

The State Human Capital Development, Science, and Technology Committee chairman  emphasised that initiatives like Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)’s INNOZILLA 2024 align with Penang's broader vision by nurturing future talents and spurring innovation across various sectors.

"By integrating INNOZILLA into this vision, we reinforce our commitment to supporting industries, empowering youth, and sustaining Penang’s competitive edge,” he said during the launch of USM INNOZILLA 2024 at Dewan Utama Pelajar, USM here, today.

Jagdeep said Penang is well-positioned to attract cutting-edge technology and high-value investments, particularly as a hub for semiconductor and electronics industries, adding that Penang’s strengths make it an ideal location for transforming innovative ideas into practical applications that can serve global markets.

USM INNOZILLA 2024, which runs until tomorrow, is a dynamic innovation exhibition and competition aimed at advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The event features 188 projects (143 physical and 45 virtual) from schools, colleges, universities, and startups across Penang and several other Malaysian states, as well as participants from Indonesia and Singapore.

Participants compete in two categories: “Vanguard” for experienced inventors and “Trailblazer” for emerging innovators.

USM vice chancellor Prof. Datuk Seri Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed said INNOZILLA 2024 is more than an exhibition as it serves as an ecosystem fostering knowledge sharing, talent development, and collaboration between researchers and industry.

“Together, we can ensure our research translates into impactful solutions that benefit society. By aligning with the UN SDGs, we hope to address social, economic, and environmental challenges,” he said.

The event has also attracted over 30 industry players and government agencies, showcasing their support in helping academia and innovators transform their inventions into market-ready products.

-- BERNAMA