TECHNOLOGY startups play a significant role in contributing to the digital economy as well as social economic development and in other areas, says state Transport and Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.
Zairil said this during the MoU signing ceremony between Digital Penang and the Malaysian Business Angel Network (MBAN) at The Wembley St Giles Hotel Penang today.
“These startups have the potential to bring innovative solutions that can transform various industries, create new job opportunities and drive economic growth.
“For instance, Grab has changed the way we move around. And another example is Airbnb which has changed the way we travel as well as many others,” said Zairil, who is sits on the Digital Penang board of directors.
Digital Penang, he said, was established to support the growth of early-stage tech startups and build a thriving startup ecosystem in Penang.
“We believe that our region has the potential to become a hub for tech innovation, and we are committed to providing a conducive environment for entrepreneurs to succeed.
“Over the years, Penang has produced many successful startups that have made a significant impact in their respective industries.
“We have seen successful startups emerging from Penang such as JobStreet, DeliverEat, Tableapp, SiteGiant, Exabytes, EasyParcel and PiktoChart.
“At Digital Penang, our mission is to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Our partnership with MBAN is a significant step towards achieving this mission,” he added.
Zairil also hoped that the partnership would lead to more innovative solutions and services from tech startups in Penang.
“Our goal by 2030 is to achieve at least 500 startups which I believe is achievable if everyone can work on it,” he said.
Meanwhile, Digital Penang chief executive officer Ng Kwang Ming hopes that the partnership will create a dynamic startup ecosystem that drives innovation, creates jobs, and makes a positive impact on society.
MBAN president Alan Lim said MBAN has established a Penang-based chapter, which is led by Alan Ong, the protem committee chairman, to further support the ecosystem and advance the growth of angel investors in Penang.
The MoU signing ceremony between Digital Penang and MBAN was witnessed by Zairil and Cradle (SUPER PMO) vice-president Harmender Singh.
Digital Penang was represented by Ng and MBAN was represented by Lim.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Law Suun Ting
