IJM Perennial Development Sdn Bhd (“IJM Perennial”), a joint venture between IJM Corporation Berhad (“IJM”) and Perennial Holdings Private Limited (“Perennial Holdings”), has officially announced a strategic partnership with KinMalaysia Management Sdn Bhd (“KINTEX Malaysia”), a subsidiary of the Korea International Exhibition Center (“KINTEX”), to operate the upcoming Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (“PWCC”).
This partnership, formalised through the signing of an Operation Service Agreement and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marks a significant milestone for Penang’s Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. The collaboration combines IJM Perennial’s visionary development with KINTEX’s global event expertise, laying the foundation for PWCC to emerge as a world-class business events venue.
The signing ceremony was held at PWCC and witnessed by Y.A.B. Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang; YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy; Mayor Lee Dong-Hwan of Goyang Special City, Republic of Korea; Datuk Tony Ling Thou Lung, CEO of IJM Land and Director of IJM Perennial; along with senior representatives from IJM, Perennial Holdings, KINTEX, and the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (“PCEB”).
Strategically located along Penang’s eastern coastline, PWCC is set to become the state’s largest convention facility, offering a column-free exhibition space, multiple meeting rooms, VIP lounges and the capacity to host up to 8,000 guests. As a core component of The Light City integrated development, it is complemented by a premier waterfront retail mall, international hotels, office towers, and luxury residences.
Dato’ Lee Chun Fai, Group CEO and Managing Director of IJM Corporation Berhad, remarked:
“The Light City exemplifies IJM’s strategy of creating integrated developments that meet market demands. Our partnership with KINTEX enhances PWCC’s operational capabilities and global reach, allowing us to attract and host high-impact international events. This collaboration will not only elevate PWCC as a premier venue but also drive economic growth for Penang, strengthening the State’s role as a key player in the global MICE sector.”
Mr Pua Seck Guan, Executive Chairman and CEO of Perennial Holdings, said:
“We are pleased to partner KINTEX, a top-tier player in the global MICE industry, to create a world-class venue which puts Penang in the global spotlight. This partnership is a strong testament to PWCC’s attractiveness as a strategic and premier location for renowned international artistes and events. The diverse array of quality performances, trade shows and conferences that this facility is capable of hosting, together with The Light City’s vibrant retail and hotel offerings, is set to make PWCC the destination of choice for international and local businesses and MICE operators.”
Mr Dominic Oh, CEO of KINTEX Malaysia, commented:
“We are excited to expand our footprint in Southeast Asia through this strategic partnership with IJM Perennial, bringing our expertise in world-class event management to PWCC. This collaboration will not only enhance Malaysia’s MICE and events industry but also introduce globally-recognised exhibitions and conventions that will contribute to Penang’s reputation as a premier international business and tourism destination.”
Driving International Collaboration and Economic Impact
This partnership gives PWCC access to KINTEX’s global network and event management capabilities, further enabling it to secure international conventions, exhibitions, and large-scale events. This synergy is poised to reinforce PWCC’s reputation as a key destination for global trade, innovation, and knowledge exchange.
With strong market response, PWCC’s 2025 event calendar is already filling up with high-profile events, including:
7th Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (APMCHUD) & Penang Urban Forum (5–7 October) – First-time host in Malaysia with 500 delegates from 68 countries.
Malaysia International Tech Edu (24–26 October) – A technology and education expo featuring robotics, green tech, electronics and biomedical engineering, expecting 5,000–8,000 visitors.
K-Brand Week, including K-Beauty Expo Malaysia (20–22 November) – Korea’s leading beauty and medical expo’s Malaysian debut, targeting 10,000–15,000 visitors.
Water Tech Asia 2025 (2–4 December) – A sustainability-focused water technology event returning to Malaysia after 10 years, anticipating 5,000–8,000 attendees.
PWCC is projected to welcome over 30,000 delegates in its inaugural year, generating approximately RM55.5 million in economic impact for Penang. This is further supported by The Light City’s lifestyle offerings, including the Waterfront Shoppes, 5-star JdV by Hyatt and 4-star Galaxy Minyoun hotels, two luxury high-rise residences, and a 750-metre waterfront promenade.
The Light Waterfront Penang: The Future of Urban Integration
Following the successful completion of its residential phase, the next stage of THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang will introduce vibrant mixed-use districts that integrate urban living, culture, and commerce. The upcoming Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery will also enrich the development’s cultural appeal.
PWCC and KINTEX will continue to work hand-in-hand to attract major international events, contributing to Penang’s and Malaysia’s economic and social advancement. With world-class facilities, global partnerships, and a fast-growing pipeline of high-calibre events, PWCC is now open for bookings for 2025 and beyond.