State-backed summit and Digital Economy Master Plan aim to transform Penang into Malaysia’s innovation powerhouse
Penang is taking a definitive step towards becoming a national leader in digital transformation with the launch of the Penang Digital Economy Summit (PDES) 2025 and the unveiling of its Digital Economy Master Plan (DEMP) 2025–2030. The event, which will be held on 9 August 2025 at G Hotel Gurney, is a collaborative effort spearheaded by Digital Penang, supported by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Cradle Fund, and backed by key industry players including Lazada, Maxis, REDtone, and 42 Penang.
Under the theme “Collaborate on Opportunities, Shape the Future”, PDES 2025 is set to bring together Malaysia’s top corporate leaders, technology startups, SMEs, policymakers, and community stakeholders to build a unified roadmap for digital innovation. Officiated by YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, the summit will serve as the official platform to introduce the state’s long-term strategic plan for digital development.
The DEMP 2025–2030, a centrepiece of the summit, outlines a bold and coordinated strategy to realise the Penang2030 vision. Developed in close consultation with federal agencies, private enterprises, and innovation partners, the plan focuses on strengthening Penang’s position as a digital-first state with a thriving technology ecosystem, diverse digital talent pool, and inclusive economic opportunities.
PDES 2025 reflects a rare level of national alignment, bringing together public and private sector leaders in a shared effort to implement Malaysia’s MADANI Digital agenda at the local level. The summit will showcase innovations in artificial intelligence, 5G solutions, fintech, greentech, digital games, and more—offering a hands-on look at the technologies reshaping industries today.
The event is designed to go beyond policy discussions, offering six thematic breakout sessions facilitated by experts across fields such as SME digitalisation, investment and fundraising, cybersecurity, digital talent development, and future workforce readiness. These sessions aim to provide practical insights, case studies, and best practices that attendees can immediately apply to their own organisations.
Lazada, the summit’s Platinum Partner, will also host an interactive workshop on e-commerce opportunities and digital retail transformation, underlining Penang’s potential as a launchpad for SMEs aiming to expand across ASEAN markets.
The Chief Minister described the summit as a pivotal milestone:
“This strategic convergence of state agencies, federal counterparts, and private sector innovators allows Penang to attract greater investment, nurture a robust tech and talent ecosystem, and improve community access to homegrown technologies and digital infrastructure.”
Lazada Group’s CEO echoed this sentiment, noting the company’s commitment to empowering local businesses:
“Penang is an exciting starting point for SMEs with regional ambitions. Lazada is proud to partner with the state to unlock the full potential of digital commerce.”
This multi-stakeholder alignment is already bearing fruit. Companies like Maxis are investing in fibre connectivity and smart city solutions, while 42 Penang—an innovative coding school backed by Sunway Education and Khazanah National—is developing the next generation of digital talent through inclusive, tuition-free education.
PDES 2025 is free and open to all, with registration available for SMEs, startups, investors, academics, and members of the public at pdes.digitalpenang.my/register. Registered participants can explore cutting-edge innovations, connect with thought leaders, and attend breakout sessions from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM on the summit day.
The exhibition area, open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, will feature solution showcases from Penang-based startups and SMEs. With limited seats available for breakout tracks, early registration by 31 July 2025 is strongly encouraged.
For further details, contact Ms Preytiishaa at +601112109917 or via email at [email protected].
Visit www.digitalpenang.my or follow Digital Penang on Facebook for more updates.
