A 36.6 per cent rise in household income, 8.76 million tourist arrivals and 99.4 per cent of public-service payments online are among the headline achievements recorded under Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow's eight years of Penang2030.
The state’s eight-year report card shows household income increasing from RM5,409 to RM7,386. This represents a gain of RM1,977, equivalent to 36.6 per cent.
Penang also recorded Malaysia’s highest cashless adoption rate for three consecutive years. Every state government department now offers cashless payment options.
In education, Penang became the first state to equip all 396 public schools with interactive smartboards. Another 142 schools received MakerLabs, dedicated spaces for hands-on learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
Penang’s global economic reach continues to expand. The state welcomed 8.76 million tourists in 2025, while Penang International Airport handles around 70 per cent of Malaysia’s air cargo. Exports moving through the sector exceeded RM400 billion.
The next phase of growth will be supported by the nearly 30km Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT), Penang’s first urban rail system, together with the Juru-Sungai Dua Elevated Highway, Penang International Logistics Aeropark and Silicon Island technology hub.
Social progress remained central to the state’s development. Mutiara Food Bank rescued 1,904 tonnes of food for vulnerable communities, while state programmes helped 169 homeless individuals secure employment.
These achievements reflect Penang’s steady transformation into a smarter, more liveable and globally competitive economic powerhouse.