By V. Sivaji
The Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MICCI Northern Branch) marked its 188th anniversary in grand fashion at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel (E&O) in Penang, celebrating nearly two centuries of service to Malaysia’s business community.
The gala evening was graced by Guest of Honour, Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow, and attended by some 250 distinguished guests. They were warmly welcomed by Dato Brian Tan, Chairman of MICCI Northern Branch, and his team.
Also lending their support were MICCI President Mdm Christina Tee, Consul General of Thailand in Penang H.E. Mr Psusist Wongsurawat, Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Penang H.E. Mr Wanton Saragih, Dato Seri Nazir Ariff, former and longest-serving President of MICCI, and a host of business leaders, diplomats and guests.
In his address, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow congratulated MICCI on reaching this remarkable milestone — a legacy that began in Penang in 1837.
“For nearly two centuries, MICCI has stood as the voice of enterprise, connecting businesses, nurturing innovation, and strengthening public–private collaboration. Here in the north, the Chamber continues to play a vital role in shaping Penang’s industrial landscape and economic success,” he said.
Chow highlighted Penang’s impressive economic journey over the past five decades, noting its evolution from a traditional port economy into a global manufacturing powerhouse and a key player in the semiconductor and electronics industries, contributing around 5 percent to global semiconductor exports.
He also spoke about Penang’s latest high-tech initiative, the Penang Silicon Design @5KM+ (PSD@5KM+), a collaboration between government, academia, and industry to drive the next phase of the state’s innovation economy.
“We have already launched the Penang Silicon Research and Incubation Space, the Penang Chip Design Academy (PCDA), and the GBS By The Sea facility, which now houses AMD’s new engineering lab. Two of our local start-ups, Silicon X and SkyeChip, are developing proprietary semiconductor technologies, bringing Malaysia closer to producing its first homegrown chip, proudly designed and developed in Penang,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dato Brian Tan in his remarks expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister and extended heartfelt appreciation to MICCI’s members and partners for their continued support.
“It is truly an honour to celebrate 188 years of the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Malaysia’s oldest chamber of commerce, tracing its roots to 1837 with the founding of the Penang Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture,” said Tan.
“Over the years, MICCI has not only witnessed history but helped shape it. It has been a pillar of the business community, a trusted bridge between the private sector and government, and a steadfast champion for commerce and industry in Malaysia.
The Northern Branch, representing Penang, Kedah, and Perlis, has played a particularly pivotal role in advancing trade and investment in our region. From the early days of facilitating trade in tin, spices, and rubber to today’s technology-driven industries, the Chamber has continually created opportunities for businesses to grow and thrive.”
The evening concluded with an array of entertainment, including a jewellery showcase by models from Amee Philips, live band performance, a stand-up comedy set by Harith Iskander, and a lively lucky draw session, making it a truly memorable night for all attendees.
