PENANG today officially unveiled its Penang Resilience Strategy (PRS), a landmark initiative that seeks to futureproof the state through inclusive, data-driven and sustainable policies aimed at enhancing its capacity to withstand present and future challenges.

The launch event, held at Eastin Hotel, was officiated by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who described the PRS as a “declaration of intent” and a testament to the state’s commitment to proactive governance in an era of increasing uncertainty.

“Today’s event is more than just the unveiling of a document; it is a collective commitment to futureproof our beloved state against the uncertainties and disruptions of an ever-changing world.

“The PRS is people-first, data-informed, and action-oriented, guiding Penang’s transformation into a resilient, adaptive and inclusive state,” Chow said in his speech.

The initiative is the result of several years of collaborative work involving local authorities, government agencies, civil society groups, academia, the private sector, and international partners.

It is Malaysia’s first state-level resilience strategy.

Chow paid tribute to the many contributors who played key roles in the strategy’s development, including, state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, whose leadership connected Penang to the global Resilient Cities Network.

He also mentioned thanks to Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid, for embedding resilience in local governance, as well as R-Cities Board Member Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Dr. Maimunah Mohd Sharif, along with the R-Cities team, for global insights that shaped the strategy.

Chow also acknowledged the voices of thousands of Penangites whose participation helped shape the PRS through community engagement sessions.

“This strategy is not just a policy document, it is a living strategy that reflects our shared values and aspirations.

“Resilience is not only technical but it is deeply human,” he said.

Amid growing climate disruptions, urban pressures and social challenges, Chow stressed the importance of embedding resilience in all levels of planning and action, from infrastructure and land use to education and community-building.

“Resilience means more than recovery.

“It means designing systems that anticipate, absorb and evolve, whether in response to climate challenges, economic shifts, public health threats or social inequalities,” he explained.

Aligned with the Penang2030 vision, the PRS also supports the Penang Green Agenda, the Penang Island Climate Action Plan, and other existing frameworks.

To further encourage active participation, the state also launched the Pledge for a Resilient Penang, a call to action for individuals and organisations to take ownership of resilience initiatives in their respective sectors.

“Whether you are a business investing in green infrastructure, a teacher instilling resilience values in young minds, or a community group advocating for safer neighbourhoods, your role matters.

“Resilience is not built in isolation – it is forged in partnership, solidarity, and collective will,” Chow said.

PLANMalaysia (the state Town and Country Planning Department) will spearhead the implementation of the PRS. The department will coordinate planning, budgeting and execution while ensuring alignment with broader development goals.

Story by Kevin Vimal Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud Video by Ahmad Adil Muhammad