Photo credit: 42 Penang
Penang has unveiled its newest coding school, the 42 Penang Campus, marking a bold stride in the state’s digital transformation journey under the Penang2030 vision. Designed to equip youth with future-ready skills in software development, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity, the initiative reflects Penang’s commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive and innovation-driven economy.
In today’s world, coding is more than a technical skill; it is a foundational language of innovation, driving advancements in everything from mobile applications and smart technologies to automation and AI systems.
Officiated by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the launch of 42 Penang represents a strategic milestone aimed at empowering a new generation of tech-savvy youth. Developed through a collaboration between the Penang State Government, Digital Penang, and 42 Malaysia, the campus adopts the globally acclaimed 42 model—a peer-to-peer, project-based, and tuition-free approach to learning [1].
Situated at Wisma Yeap Chor Ee in George Town, the campus offers training that mirrors real-world industry demands, supported by mentorship from experienced professionals. Students will gain hands-on exposure to software engineering, AI, and cybersecurity, preparing them to thrive in high-demand sectors.
Chief Minister Chow emphasised the campus’s role in supporting Penang’s broader innovation agenda, which includes initiatives like the Creative Digital District, Penang Silicon Design @5km+, and the forthcoming Digital Economy Master Plan 2.0. These programmes aim to not only strengthen the state’s digital competitiveness but also create meaningful pathways for youth to engage in the emerging economy[2].
Beyond technical training, 42 Penang serves as a launchpad for social mobility, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. Complementary programmes such as StartupPenang500 and the Hardtech & Deeptech Commercialisation Accelerator further support students in developing innovative, real-world solutions—enhancing their role as proactive contributors to society [3].
The campus is also envisioned as a hub for public-private collaboration. Chow called upon corporations, SMEs, academic institutions, and community organisations to support the initiative through mentorships, collaborative projects, internships, and job opportunities. Such multi-stakeholder efforts are crucial to building inclusive platforms for public participation in social and economic development.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, who attended the launch, praised the collaborative spirit behind the initiative and underscored the importance of digital inclusivity, ensuring that all Malaysians—particularly the younger generation—are empowered to participate in the country’s digital future.
Sunway Education Group CEO, Datuk Dr Elizabeth Lee, also expressed strong support, stating that 42 Penang reflects a shared commitment to innovative, inclusive education that empowers youth for the future.
Other notable attendees included Zairil Khir Johari (State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee Chairman), MDEC CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil, Khazanah Dana Impak Director Kayse Soo, Sunway iLabs CEO Matt van Leuwen, 42 Malaysia CEO Jeff Sandhu, and Digital Penang CEO Ng Kwang Ming.
- Lee, E. (2025). 42 Penang Campus launched. Buletin Mutiara. May 16-31. https://www.buletinmutiara.com/42-malaysia-expands-to-penang-to-boost-innovation-and-nurture-talents/ ↩
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