PENANG INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE FAIR 2023
SPEECH BY YAB TUAN CHOW KON YEOW
THE CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG
PENANG INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE FAIR 2023
25TH NOVEMBER 2023 (SATURDAY);
SPICE ARENA
YB Tuan Jagdeep Singh Deo
Deputy Chief Minister 2 of Penang & Chairman of Penang Science Cluster
Dato’ Ir. Rajendran A/L P. Anthony
Datuk Bandar, Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang
Dato’ Ooi Peng Ee
CEO of Penang Science Cluster
PSC Board of Directors; Industry captains
Distinguished guests; Teachers, parents, and students
Members of the media
Good morning.
Today marks a significant milestone as we gather to inaugurate the Penang International Science Fair 2023. It is with immense pleasure that I stand before you today for an event that not only showcases the cutting-edge advancements in science and technology but also ignites the flames of curiosity and innovation in the hearts and minds of our young students.
The Penang International Science Fair (PISF), conceived under the umbrella of the Penang Science Cluster's mission of "Inspiring Innovation," is not merely an exhibition; it is a convergence of minds, a celebration of the relentless pursuit of knowledge, and a platform to nurture the seeds of curiosity among our youth, particularly in STEM. Today, we also stand at the crossroads of collaboration between the public sector, private enterprises, and educational institutions, all working harmoniously to cultivate a culture of scientific exploration and creativity.
As we embark on this enlightening journey over the next two days, we are honored to host 54 exemplary companies, each a beacon of technological prowess. These industry giants, including Agilent, B. Braun, HPMM, Intel, Keysight, and many more, have not only lent their support but have become the driving force behind the grandeur of this year's Science Fair. Their dedication to innovation and education is commendable, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of them.
This year’s PISF will see the 54 company exhibitors showcasing and explaining the science, technology and innovations behind their high-tech products. In addition, these companies, together with 26 Penang MakerLab schools, are offering over 20,000 workshop slots of 76 different STEM varieties to students from Penang and 8 other States in Malaysia. I am told that there are busloads of students coming from as far south as Johor to join in this year’s Science Fair.
On that note, I am also pleased to learn that this year's PISF is not confined within our borders; it has embraced an international dimension with teams from Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, India, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe participating in 11 captivating competitions. This global collaboration not only enriches the experience for our local participants but also fosters a spirit of camaraderie and shared knowledge on the international stage.
Ladies and gentlemen,
As Dato Ooi mentioned in his speech, the Penang International Science Fair is the culmination of a year-long journey, a journey marked by regional and national impact. The tireless efforts of the Penang Science Cluster, in partnership with industry, have laid the foundation for this grand event. I am heartened by the extensive list of companies and foundations that have sponsored and partnered with them throughout the year. It reflects a shared commitment to shaping the future of education and innovation in our state.
However, our journey is far from over. While we celebrate our achievements today, we must also recognize the ongoing responsibility to cultivate the talents of tomorrow. Talent, as we all know, is the lifeblood of industry, the driving force behind innovation, and the cornerstone of economic growth. Penang, with its thriving high-tech industries, is a shining example of what talent can achieve.
Looking ahead, I implore more companies to join hands with the Penang Science Cluster and other state entities to create a robust pipeline of critical talent. The State Government is not just willing but eager to collaborate, support, and facilitate initiatives that contribute to the growth of our future leaders, in line with the state’s Penang2030 vision of ‘A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’.
In conclusion, I extend my sincere gratitude to all the participants, sponsors, and organizers who have come together to make the Penang International Science Fair 2023 a resounding success. Let us continue to inspire, educate, and pave the way for a future where innovation knows no bounds.
With that said, thank you, and I hereby officially launch the Penang International Science Fair 2023. May the spirit of discovery and creativity continue to lead us all.