Source: Buletin Mutiara
WCIT 2022 Malaysia is the 26th edition of the World Congress on Innovation & Technology and sets out to be the gateway to Southeast Asia; connecting and transforming the world via a global event for technology businesses. Since Penang controls more than 5% of global semiconductor sales and accounts for nearly 60% of the country’s E&E exports, this state creates a favourable environment for domestic technology firms to grow and prosper, attaining international recognition.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow stated that WCIT 2022 provides a platform crucial for addressing the contemporary agendas relevant to industry players while appropriately setting the stage for visitors to share ideas and connect.
The WCIT 2022 was officiated by Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, the governor of Penang, and Ismail Sabri Yaakob, Prime Minister of Malaysia on September 13, 2022.
Aimed at connecting with worldwide IT leaders, the three-day congress took place in Penang from Sept 13 to Sept 15, 2022 and was kicked off with an event-filled programme with over 4,000 registered participants, more than 200 speakers, government officials, academicians, industry visionaries, entrepreneurs, innovators, captains of industry, and media from over 60 countries.
During the course of the congress, over RM46 billion worth of foreign and domestic digital investments were announced between some of the biggest players in the global technology and digital arena through the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).
WCIT 2022 was organised by the National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM), with support from Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia Malaysia as well as HRD Corp and the Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia, and hosted by the Penang State Government.
Dr. Sean Seah, chairman of Pikom and recently appointed Chairman of the World Innovation and Technology Services Alliance (WITSA) for the 2022-2024 term, said he is proud to welcome the world to experience and enjoy Malaysian hospitality through technology, innovation, and beautiful culture.
The WCIT 2022 also includes a Digital Ecosystems Excursion program where delegates can enjoy a discount on air tickets visiting states nationwide which assists the tourism sector and attract foreign investment into the states.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister of Penang Chow Kon Yeow officiated the TechFest 2022 that took place in conjunction with WCIT 2022 from September 14 to September 18, 2022 at Setia Spice Arena Penang, showcasing more than 500 brands and products in an exhibition space of over 6,500 square metres which is open to the public.
Such events provide an experiential journey for attendees on the importance of technology in improving lives and how it is applied to enhance and improve business needs and modernize lifestyles. Without the support of the Penang State Government, the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), HRD Corp, and Penang Lead Agencies, WCIT 2022 would not have been possible.