Summary
- PENtastic Startup Month runs from Nov 1 to 30 across Penang.
- More than 30 activities involving 21 organisers confirmed.
- Events focus on AI, entrepreneurship, investment, innovation and networking.
GEORGE TOWN, October 15 — Penang will host PENtastic Startup Month 2026 throughout November, bringing together startup founders, investors, entrepreneurs and technology professionals.
Through more than 30 activities across the state. State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the initiative, coordinated by Digital Penang.
Involves 21 confirmed organisers offering workshops, business networking sessions, investment discussions and innovation showcases. The programme includes Startup Venture Vibes 2026 on Nov 19.
Artificial intelligence workshops, startup financing programmes, entrepreneurship training and a photography exhibition supported by Canon Malaysia. Zairil said Penang currently has 354 startups.
Making it Malaysia’s second-largest startup ecosystem, with an estimated RM340 million in combined revenue and 2,600 high-income jobs. The month-long initiative also features the Creative Content AI.
One-Person Company Showcase, supported by technology and industry partners, alongside programmes designed to help small businesses adopt digital technologies. More than 500 participants are expected.
With most activities offering free admission to encourage wider participation among students, entrepreneurs, investors and the public. Zairil said the initiative supports the Penang Digital Economy Master Plan 2025–2030.
By strengthening industry connections, encouraging innovation and creating opportunities for startups to secure funding and expand their businesses.
