Penang continued to perform strongly in its investment outlook in 2025, recording RM32.9 billion in approved investments, largely driven by high-technology manufacturing sectors, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He said the state remains one of Malaysia’s key economic contributors, supported by strong investor confidence in its industrial ecosystem, skilled workforce, infrastructure and strategic position in the global supply chain.
In a written reply during the Penang state legislative assembly sitting on Thursday (May 14), Chow said the state continues to attract quality investments, particularly in electrical and electronics (E&E), semiconductors and medical devices.
He said the inflow was supported by policy stability and ongoing state government initiatives, which have helped strengthen investor confidence among both foreign and domestic players, according to data from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).
On trade performance, Chow said Penang recorded RM573 billion in exports and RM382 billion in imports in 2025 through Penang Port and Penang International Airport, based on Statistics Department of Malaysia (DOSM) data.
He noted that a detailed breakdown of trade specifically handled by the port and airport is not currently available.
Overall, he said the strong export and import figures highlight Penang’s role as a key regional trade hub, particularly for high-value and technology-driven industries.
