The Penang Development Corporation (PDC) celebrated its 55th anniversary with an event at its Bayan Lepas headquarters, marking over five decades of transformative contributions to the state’s socio-economic landscape. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, along with other dignitaries, reflected on the agency’s achievements and its pivotal role in shaping Penang’s future.

Celebrating Milestones

Chief Minister Chow highlighted key accomplishments of PDC in 2024, particularly its advancements in infrastructure and investment. Among the highlights was the completion of the GBS TechSpace building, a 60,000 sq ft facility aimed at strengthening Penang’s integrated circuit (IC) design sector under the “Penang Silicon Design @5km+” initiative. Located in the Technoplex Bayan Lepas industrial park, this development is poised to enhance economic opportunities and talent retention, with its formal inauguration set for December 7.

The Chief Minister also announced significant progress on the GBS By The Sea building, which is 98.9% complete as of November 1. This 294,000 sq ft facility is expected to receive its Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) in early December, expanding Penang’s capacity to host global business services operations.

In the industrial sector, PDC continues to support high-value investments with the ongoing development of Batu Kawan Industrial Park 3 (BKIP3) and the Bandar Cassia Technology Park (BCTP). Multinational corporations such as Siliconware Precision Malaysia, Plexus Manufacturing, and MKS Instruments have begun establishing facilities in these hubs, underscoring Penang’s commitment to clean and sustainable industrial growth.

“PDC has been the backbone of Penang’s socio-economic transformation for over five decades,” said Chow, emphasizing its strategic investments, job creation, and infrastructure development.

Community and Cultural Commitment

The celebration coincided with Deepavali, reflecting Penang’s multicultural spirit. Chow praised PDC for fostering inclusivity through community initiatives that align with the state’s Penang2030 vision of a prosperous, harmonious society.

PDC Hindu Association chairman N. Puveneswary echoed this sentiment, highlighting Deepavali’s symbolic significance of light triumphing over darkness. She expressed gratitude to PDC for supporting the event and announced a corporate social responsibility (CSR) contribution of RM500 each to six Tamil primary schools in Penang.

“This gesture reflects our shared commitment to fostering education and empowering the next generation,” Puveneswary said.

A Festive Atmosphere

The event featured vibrant performances, including a lively set by Zubir Khan, whose songs such as Yennode Macha and Deepavali Sudah Mari captivated the audience. His charismatic performance added a festive tone, making the celebration memorable for all attendees.

Looking Ahead

As PDC enters its 56th year, Chief Minister Chow expressed optimism for its future. He emphasized the importance of continued innovation and unity in driving the state’s growth trajectory.

“Let us work together to achieve even greater heights, driven by the spirit of unity and dedication. Congratulations to PDC on this remarkable milestone,” Chow concluded.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Penang State Secretary Datuk Zulkifli Long, Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, and PDC CEO Datuk Aziz Bakar, among others.

With its enduring legacy and forward-looking projects, PDC remains a cornerstone of Penang’s socio-economic success, poised to achieve even greater milestones in the years to come.