Wong and Yeoh (respectively third and fourth from left) with the forum participants.
Penang’s creative economy embodies the essence of the state’s identity, seamlessly merging tradition with modernity to preserve its rich heritage.
The state’s creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said its success depended on the collaboration between many stakeholders.
“Whether you are from the creative industries, corporate sector, academia or the community, your role is vital.
“Together, we can build an ecosystem that nurtures talent, attracts investment and positions Penang as a global leader in the creative economy,” he said in his keynote address during the Penang Economic, Education and Environment Forum themed “Shaping and Enhancing Penang’s Creative Economy”.
Describing the forum as timely and inspiring, Wong said the creative economy had become a vital driver of innovation, cultural expression and sustainable development globally.
He said the creative economy formed a cornerstone of Penang2030 Vision, a collective ambition to build a dynamic and diversified economy that resonated with local talent and global opportunities.
He stressed that the state’s creative economy was not just a sector, it was a pillar of Penang’s economic strategy and a catalyst for cultural preservation, innovation and sustainable growth.
Wong said Penang had taken decisive steps to foster a thriving creative economy by supporting industries such as digital content creation, design and performing arts.
He said the efforts had been bolstered by targeted policies, funding and collaborations that positioned Penang as a regional hub for creativity and innovation.
He noted events like the George Town Festival and collaborative creative spaces had provided platforms for local talent to shine, further establishing Penang as a cultural and economic powerhouse.
Cultural landmarks like George Town’s iconic street art, the intricate craftsmanship of batik and kebaya artisans, and the state’s diverse culinary heritage were spotlighted as essential components of Penang’s identity, he said.
“Every corner of Penang tells a story. Even our culinary traditions are an exquisite fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, Peranakan and Western influences.
“Such influences have inspired creative projects, from food tourism to digital storytelling,” he added.
Wong said his office had spearheaded numerous events to invigorate the tourism industry and celebrate cultural heritage.
He said the state hosted the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta last month at Straits Quay Retail Marina.
“This year’s regatta drew over 100,000 attendees, showcasing Penang’s scenic beauty and vibrant cultural heritage.”
On the Penang Bridge International Marathon tomorrow, Wong said Penang would be welcoming runners around the world.
He said relocating the event to the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge in Batu Kawan would offer participants an exhilarating new experience.
“The event boosts our hotels, restaurants and retail businesses, reinforcing Penang’s status as a global destination.”
He said to cap off the year, the Penang Chingay Parade will take place on Dec 21 in Seberang Perai and Dec 28 in George Town.
Penang, he said, celebrated a significant cultural milestone when the kebaya and Malaysian Breakfast Culture were inscribed on Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list on Dec 4 this year.
This achievement, part of a joint nomination by Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and Thailand, underscored the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
The Nyonya kebaya, deeply rooted in Penang’s Peranakan culture, symbolises the state’s history and artistry.
“This recognition is more than an accolade; it is a commitment to preserving our heritage, fostering unity, and ensuring these traditions thrive for future generations,” said Wong.
Among those present during the forum were World Digital Chamber and KSI Strategic Institute for Asia-Pacific president Tan Sri Michael Yeoh, Penang Datuk-Datuk Council president Datuk Seri Abdul Rafique Abdul Karim and the Economic Club of Kuala Lumpur chairman Datuk Seri Mohamed Iqbal Rawther who is also KSI Strategic Institute for Asia-Pacific deputy chairman.
