By V. Sivaji
The prestigious INPenang International Awards ceremony took place in the elegant ballroom of the St Giles Wembley Hotel, drawing over 400 distinguished guests and their partners.
The evening exuded glamour and sophistication, in line with its “black-tie” dress code.
The event was graced by Guest of Honour, YB Steven Sim, Malaysia’s Minister of Human Resources. He was joined by several notable figures, including the State Executive Councillor for Housing and Environment, Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo Somu and Penang Island City Council Mayor Dato’ A. Rajendran
Founder and President of the INPenang International Awards, Dato’ Ch’ng Huck Theng, warmly welcomed attendees before the awards presentation commenced.
Meanwhile, in his opening address, Sim praised Penang’s vibrant and diverse heritage. He emphasized the state’s pivotal role in the global economy, stating,
“Penang is the semiconductor hub of the world, contributing 7% to global supply. In the coming years, we should elevate the ‘Made in Penang’ brand to new heights.”
He also highlighted key upcoming infrastructure projects poised to shape the state’s future, including the Penang airport expansion, the Penang Hill cable car, and the long-awaited LRT system.
This year, 17 outstanding individuals and organizations were recognized for their contributions across various fields.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Datuk Andrew Lim Tatt Keong, Group Executive Chairman of GIANT, Mercato, TMC, and GAMA; Group Deputy Chairman of SOGO Seibu; and President of the Malaysia Retailers Association.
INPenang International Outstanding Achievers Award: Dato’ Seri Cheah Cheng Hye, Honorary Chairman & Non-Executive Director, Value Partners Group, Hong Kong, Dato’ Raschada Jiwalai, former Consul-General of Thailand to Penang, Tanes Kumar, CEO & Chief Commercial Officer, Myanmar Airways International & Mingalar, Dato’ Lau Beng Long, President, Sunway Healthcare Group, Cheah Chay Tiong, Director and Managing Editor, The Smart Investor
INPenang National Achievers Award: Dr. Mary CH Quah – Genesis IVF & Women’s Specialist Centre (Best Fertility & Reproductive Health Innovators), Shan Poornam Sdn Bhd – Top Environmental Stewardship, Innovation & Circular Economy, GSD Land (M) Sdn Bhd – Best Property Developer, Sunway Carnival Mall – Best Retail Mall, Wonderfood Museum Penang – Best Tourism Experience, Ghee Hiang Manufacturing Co. Sdn Bhd – Best Heritage Brand, Dr. Kenny Loh – Top Cultural Fashion Designer
Emerging Entrepreneur Award Winners: Dré Coklat Sdn Bhd, Space Ace Elite Sdn Bhd, Alan Lim Hin Loong & Catherine Lee Siow Mei, Founders of Fusion
Guests enjoyed a gourmet dining experience thoughtfully prepared by the St Giles Wembley Hotel team. The atmosphere was vibrant as attendees networked and celebrated the spirit of excellence and innovation.
Also in attendance were Tan Sri Tan Khoon Hai (Chairman, Penang Chinese Town Hall), Dr. Annuar Mohamed (Director, MOTAC Penang), Dato’ Tony Goh (General Manager, St Giles Wembley Hotel), Ooi Chok Yan, Penang Global Tourism CEO among other distinguished guests.
Sunway Carnival Mall team with their awards