Penang, 12 April 2025 – Penang’s growing reputation as a leading business events destination received a significant boost today as IJM Perennial Development Sdn Bhd formalized a strategic partnership with Korea’s convention powerhouse, KINTEX. Through its Malaysian arm, KINTEX Malaysia, the Korean MICE giant will operate the soon-to-open Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), marking a key milestone in positioning Penang on the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) map.
The signing ceremony was held at the PWCC and witnessed by a distinguished line-up of guests, including:
YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State EXCO for Tourism & Creative Economy, YB Connie Tan Hooi Peng, Seri Delima State Assemblywoman, Mayor Lee Dong-Hwan, Mayor of Goyang Special City, South Korea
YBhg. Datuk Tony Ling Thou Lung, CEO of IJM Land & Director of IJM Perennial
Ms. Dawn Tan, COO of Perennial Holdings (Singapore & Regional, ex-China) & Director of IJM Perennial
Mr. Lee Jae Yul, CEO of Korea International Exhibition Center (KINTEX)
Mr. Dominic Oh, CEO of KinMalaysia Management Sdn. Bhd.
Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO of Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB)
Also in attendance were representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture, Tourism Malaysia Northern Region, and senior leadership teams from IJM, Perennial Holdings, KINTEX, and PCEB.
A Major Leap for Penang’s MICE Sector
The partnership, sealed through an Operation Service Agreement and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is set to elevate PWCC’s operational standards by leveraging KINTEX’s proven international expertise. The centre, opening in October 2025, will be the largest in Penang, featuring expansive column-free event halls, VIP lounges, and capacity for up to 8,000 guests.
“This collaboration enhances PWCC’s global reach and allows us to host high-impact international events. It is a catalyst for economic growth and a testament to Penang’s growing stature,” said Dato’ Lee Chun Fai, Group CEO and MD of IJM Corporation Berhad.
Chief Minister YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow underscored the significance of the partnership, noting that Penang hosted over 2,000 business events in 2024 alone, welcoming more than 300,000 delegates and generating RM1.29 billion in economic impact.
“PWCC is not just another venue—it’s about to be the Centre of attention in the region,” said Chow. “Today’s signing is more than just ink on paper; it’s a promise to deliver world-class experiences that put Penang firmly on the MICE circuit.”
PWCC’s debut year is already gaining traction with a line-up of major events:
• 7th Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (APMCHUD) & Penang Urban Forum (5–7 October)
• Malaysia International Tech Edu 2025 (24–26 October)
• K-Brand Week featuring K-Beauty Expo Malaysia (20–22 November)
• Water Tech Asia 2025 (2–4 December)
These events are expected to attract over 30,000 delegates and generate approximately RM55.5 million in economic impact.
Anchoring The Light City development, PWCC will be complemented by The Waterfront Shoppes (Penang’s largest waterfront mall), the JdV by Hyatt and Galaxy Minyoun hotels, luxury residences, and a 750-meter promenade—offering a holistic destination for both business and leisure.
Looking forward, The Light Waterfront Penang will include new cultural and mixed-use precincts, such as the upcoming Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery. PWCC and KINTEX aim to attract more global events while contributing to Malaysia’s long-term economic and tourism development.
