The upcoming Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC) is set to elevate Penang’s position as a premier MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) destination through a strategic partnership with South Korea’s KINTEX, a move that underscores the state’s commitment to international collaboration and economic development.
The strategic agreement involves UM Perennial Development Sdn Bhd and KinMalaysia Management Sdn Bhd – a subsidiary of the Korea International Exhibition Centre (KINTEX) – as well as a separate partnership between the Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and KINTEX.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow described the partnerships as a reflection of the deepening relationship between Penang and South Korea – not only culturally but also economically and strategically.
“These collaborations are a leap forward in Penang’s MICE industry, promising to bring larger-scale conventions, enhanced collaborations, and greater international exposure,” Chow said during the signing ceremony.
In 2024 alone, Penang hosted over 2,000 business events, drawing more than 300,000 delegates and contributing an estimated RM1.29 billion in economic impact.
Also present at the event were Goyang Special City Mayor Lee Dong-Hwan, Penang State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee Chairman Wong Hon Wai, UM Perennial Director Datuk Tony Ling Thou Lung, PCEB CEO Ashwin Gunasekeran, and KINTEX CEO Lee Jae-yul.
Datuk Tony Ling shared that PWCC’s 2025 calendar is already gaining momentum, with confirmed high-profile events such as:
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The 7th Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development
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Malaysia International Tech Edu
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K-Brand Week featuring the K-Beauty Expo Malaysia
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Water Tech Asia
PWCC, set to officially open in October 2025, is expected to host more than 30,000 delegates in its inaugural year, generating approximately RM55.5 million in economic impact. The facility boasts a 76,000 sq ft net lettable area, banquet seating for 5,500, and theatre-style capacity for up to 8,000 guests. It will also include meeting rooms, VIP lounges, ample parking, and seamless access to retail, F&B, and hotel accommodations.
PWCC is a core component of The Light City development, which features Penang’s largest waterfront retail mall, international hotels, premium office towers, and high-end residences.–BERNAMA
