Penang connects for digital leap with Internet Exchange

The launch of the Penang Internet Exchange (PIX), powered by DE-CIX, marks a crucial step in Penang’s pursuit of digital excellence.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted the collaborative effort between Digital Penang and DE-CIX Malaysia, underscoring the government’s commitment to strategic partnerships.

The project, made possible with sponsorship from PDC Telecommunication Services, is set to enhance the state’s digital landscape.

Penang empowering citizens and fostering innovation

Chow described PIX as a digital tapestry, playing a pivotal role in empowering citizens and acting as a catalyst for innovation, economic growth, and infrastructure development in Penang.

The localisation of internet traffic exchange within Penang is anticipated to reduce network latency, ensuring a faster online experience for the state’s residents.

“In the digital world, it is neither the biggest nor strongest that wins but the small, smart, and nimble that changes and adapts who wins the game.

Size or location no longer restricts us. Embracing digital is the way for us to extend our boundaries and tap into the global value chain,” stated Chow during the PIX launching ceremony at Hotel Jen by Shangri-La.

Digitalisation future and opportunities

Chow emphasised the rapid pace of digitalisation, contrasting it with the industrialisation journey that took 50 years.

He urged businesses and startups to seize the opportunities presented by PIX, transforming it into a platform for growth and connectivity to over 100 countries.

The PIX initiative opens up possibilities, breaking away from the previous necessity for all traffic to pass through Kuala Lumpur, Johor, and Singapore.

Chow’s call to businesses resonated with the potential impact of PIX, providing a realm of possibilities and serving as a potential game-changer for their endeavours.

He underlined the platform’s significance beyond reducing latency, positioning it as a gateway for businesses to expand globally.

The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of prominent figures, including Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital; Zairil Khir Johari, state executive councillor for Infrastructure, Transport and Digital; Wong Weng Yew.

They were joined by board member of DE-CIX Malaysia; Ivo Ivanow, CEO of DE-CIX Group AG and CEO of DE-CIX International; Ng Kwang Ming, CEO of Digital Penang; Mahadhir Aziz, CEO of MDEC; Datuk Aziz Bakar, CEO of Penang Development Corporation; and Datin S. Bharathi, general manager of Chief Minister Incorporated.

Source: Buletin Mutiara