SPEECH BY THE CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG YAB CHOW KON YEOW FOR THE PENANG WATERFRONT CONVENTION CENTRE (PWCC) COMPLETION CEREMONY

 

23 JANUARY 2024
THE LIGHT CITY CONSTRUCTION SITE

 

Ladies and Gentlemen

Greetings to everyone on this exciting day—a pivotal moment in Penang's conference landscape. Today, we are not only witnessing the completion of the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC); we stand at the threshold of a new era, where ideas will converge, collaborations will flourish, and knowledge will be exchanged amidst the dynamic backdrop of our vibrant city.

 

As the Chief Minister of Penang, I stand here with immense pride, knowing that our state continues to be at the forefront of development initiatives that impact not only our community but also resonate on the global stage. The strategic positioning of PWCC at the core of our city, coupled with the anticipation of an upcoming LRT project, reflects our commitment to accessibility and progress. This project, with its substantial gross floor area (GFA) and advanced facilities, underscores our dedication towards providing world-class infrastructure that positions Penang as a leading destination for diverse and impactful events.

Beyond the grandeur of the building, PWCC is deeply rooted in community engagement. We are committed to ensuring that the local community actively participates in and benefits from the opportunities that arise. Employment opportunities, skill development programs, and community events hosted within PWCC will be integral to making this centre not just a structure for visitors but a beloved space for our local community.

As we all know, Penang is a melting pot of cultures, and PWCC embraces this diversity. The design elements, from architectural nuances to event spaces, incorporate our rich cultural heritage. As we envision PWCC as a hub for international conferences, it will also serve as a space where diverse cultures converge, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the global community that calls Penang home.

Ladies & Gentlemen,

In our pursuit of excellence, we must recognize the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors. Very much in line with the aspirations of the Penang2030 Vision, the State Government is always working on improving our infrastructure as a means of stimulating economic growth in a city and attracting inward investment as well as retaining talents. To this end, the Penang State Government will continue with our effort to transform Penang into a location of choice for investors, a destination of choice for tourists and a habitat of choice for residents who desire sustainable living.

The State Government remains committed in enhancing the state’s public transport ecosystem through initiatives like the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP), with a focus on the Komtar-Bayan Lepas Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line.

Moreover, Penangites have always been known for our resilience, adaptability, and industrious spirit. Today, we see these qualities in the thriving technology sector that continues to evolve within our borders. Hence, Silicon Island in the south is the state government’s answer towards the future and evolving needs of our younger generation.

It will have the necessary pull factors to retain our young talents such as the high technology industrial park Green Tech Park (GTP); global business services & software hub (GBS campus); commercial development; housing and green recreational areas. All of these are expected to generate a GDP of RM1.1 trillion and investments of up to RM74.7 billion.  

Ladies & Gentlemen,

PWCC is also poised to become an education and research hub. With a commitment to lifelong learning, we plan to host educational conferences, workshops, and research symposiums that contribute to the intellectual growth of our community. PWCC will be a space where knowledge is not only exchanged but actively cultivated.

In conclusion, standing at the threshold of this new chapter with PWCC, let us collectively celebrate not merely the completion of a structure but the profound embodiment of our values. Our commitment to progress is unwavering, and together, we will continue to dream, innovate, and build a Penang that shines even brighter on the global stage.

I express my deepest gratitude to all of you for being integral to this transformative journey. Together, let us enthusiastically forge a path towards a future where Penang stands as a shining example, not just as an economic and cultural hub, but as a beacon of sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced development.

Thank you.