Georgetown – The George Town Institute of Open Advanced Studies (GIOAS), welcomed a delegation of 40 Chinese C-suite executives from diverse business sectors under the HKU Business School Executive Education Program (HKU-ICC Program) for an immersive business and cultural exploratory tour in Penang.
The delegation comprises chairmen, chief executives and senior vice presidents from leading companies in China. Amongst them were Chairmen from 4 public-listed companies with a combined market cap of over RM50 billion. These delegates are on a firsthand study tour to look at investment opportunities in Penang, representing sectors from financial, IT, manufacturing, medicare and services sectors.
The event was hosted at the Homestead campus of Wawasan Open University (WOU), a heritage mansion and legacy of Towkay Yeap Chor Ee. Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon, Chairman of WOU’s Board of Governors, extended a warm welcome to the delegation and provided an overview of the University’s mission and achievements. Ms. Ong Siou Woon from Penang Institute delivered an insightful presentation on the Penang economy, while Dato’ Dr. Tan Tat Wai offered a comprehensive analysis of Malaysian corporate culture and the business landscape. Esteemed representatives from China Construction Bank Berhad (Penang branch) and CGS International Securities Berhad provided an in-depth examination of the Malaysian financial system and capital market. Additionally, officials from the Securities Commission, Bursa Malaysia, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), and the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) elaborated on listing opportunities, incentives for foreign family offices, and pathways for foreign-local joint ventures in Malaysia.
The delegation met with YB Zairil Khir Johari, Penang State Executive Councillor, at Menara Komtar, where he welcomed them and provided an overview of Penang’s strategic advantages and its appeal as a destination for foreign investment. The delegates also attended presentations by leading electrical and engineering companies, UWC Berhad and WafTech Sdn Bhd, who shared their experiences and perspectives on investing in Penang’s thriving electronics industry. Tan Sri Andrew Sheng, Chairman of GIOAS, subsequently led the delegation on site visits to two prominent publicly listed semiconductor companies, NationGate Solution (M) Sdn Bhd and Greatech Technology Berhad, showcasing the dynamic potential of Penang’s semiconductor sector.
The Chinese delegates departed with valuable insights into the diverse opportunities Penang offers, spanning its thriving semiconductor sector, robust electronics industry, and supportive investment ecosystem. Their interactions with key industry leaders, government representatives, and academic institutions provided a comprehensive understanding of Penang’s dynamic business environment and its unique blend of cultural richness and economic potential. This successful study tour highlights the significant opportunities for collaboration between Malaysian and Chinese enterprises, paving the way for stronger economic ties and mutual growth. WOU, through its partnership with GIOAS, continues to play a pivotal role as a bridge for knowledge exchange and investment facilitation, further positioning Penang as a leading hub for global business innovation and cultural exchange.
About George Town Institute of Open and Advanced Studies
The George Town Institute of Open and Advanced Studies (GIOAS) was established in December 2018 as an independent, not-for-profit institute that seeks to explore ideas and complexity within open societies. It operates as an integral part of Wawasan Open University, embracing the principle that progress is open-ended and that there are no boundaries, only the willingness to pursue knowledge in the furtherance of society and nature. GIOAS celebrates the vibrancy of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in attracting thinkers, teachers, students and doers in the world of science, social science, business, government, and civil society. By providing a dynamic platform for thought leaders to connect, network, and exchange ideas, it aims to bring global perspectives into the ongoing dialogue in Penang and Malaysia on the evolving role of education, learning, work, and society. Discover more at www.wou.edu.my/gioas-centres/
About Wawasan Open University
Wawasan Open University (WOU), established in 2006, is a pioneer in open distance learning in Malaysia, dedicated to providing accessible, flexible, and high-quality online education tailored to adult learners. With over 28,500 students enrolled since its inception, WOU offers more than 100 programmes, ranging from diplomas and degrees to micro-credentials and corporate training, all approved by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE). Our innovative FlexLearn digital platform delivers engaging and interactive learning experiences, supported by a team of over 2,000 experienced academics and tutors. As the largest Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) center appointed by MQA, WOU enables students to leverage their work experience for academic advancement. Anchored by a career-focused approach and cutting-edge technology, we empower students to achieve their full potential through pathways that bridge academia and real-world application, ensuring they are equipped for the ever-evolving demands of the workforce. For more information go to www.wou.edu.my
Contact:
Rasidah Mion,
Corporate Communications Manager
[email protected] | 019 314 2003
Eng San Chok,
George Town Institute of Open and Advanced Studies (GIOAS)
[email protected] 019 475 7125