Summary
- Penang records RM1.164 trillion in trade during the first nine months of 2026.
- RM238 million secured for four strategic technology and talent initiatives.
- State announces higher community leadership allowances and continued cost-of-living assistance.
GEORGE TOWN, November 4 — Penang recorded RM1.164 trillion in total trade during the first nine months of 2026, with exports reaching RM766.44 billion.
Accounting for 48.8% of Malaysia’s total exports, state executive councillor Goh Choon Aik said. During his winding-up speech at the Penang State Assembly, Goh said exports increased 75.1% year-on-year.
Reflecting the state’s strong manufacturing sector and international trade network. He said InvestPenang secured RM238 million in funding for four strategic initiatives between 2025 and 2026.
Covering semiconductor design, technical talent development, automated testing and technology financing. Penang is also expanding industrial land development.
Including the 176-acre Northern TechValley project, a proposed 1,578-acre industrial expansion and the 1,300-acre Batu Kawan Industrial Park 2.
On domestic trade, Goh said 4,645 microentrepreneurs had received RM37.14 million in financing through the Skim Pinjaman Harapan programme.
Meanwhile, 2,138 Jualan Rahmah MADANI sales events attracted approximately 2.58 million visitors and generated RM85.29 million in sales between January and October.
The state also approved higher allowances for members of its 375 Village Community Management Councils (MPKK), effective January 2027.
The adjustment requires an additional RM4.5 million annually, bringing total MPKK allowance allocations to RM17.55 million.
Monthly allowances for chairpersons will increase from RM700 to RM800, secretaries from RM600 to RM700 and treasurers from RM300 to RM400.
Goh said the government would continue strengthening industrial competitiveness, supporting local businesses and reducing household expenses while promoting community participation and social unity.
