PENANG, May 9, 2026 — The Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA) Northern Region convened its highly anticipated Annual General Meeting (AGM) today in Penang. The gathering, attended by key industry figures including SAMENTA National President Datuk William Ng, culminated in the re-election of Mr. Calvin Kwan as Northern Region Chairman for the 2026-2029 term and the appointment of a dynamic new executive committee.
With a clear mandate focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), digitalization, and high-level advocacy, the newly elected leadership is well-positioned to guide local SMEs into a technologically advanced future.
A Digital-First Mandate for Local Businesses – SAMENTA Northern Region AGM
In his opening address to the 39 voting members and proxies, Chairman Calvin Kwan reflected on the Northern Region’s impressive growth trajectory. Under strategic leadership, the chapter has matured from its “infancy” into a highly influential body recognised across both state and federal government levels.
However, Kwan’s primary message was a strict call to action: adapt or fall behind. He strongly urged local SMEs to capitalize on emerging market opportunities, particularly the influx of foreign investments from China. More importantly, Kwan stressed that integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation into daily business operations is no longer optional for those wanting to maintain a competitive edge. Leading by example, SAMENTA Northern Region recently overhauled its own internal infrastructure, fully migrating to a sophisticated database management system.
Redefining the Role of a Business Association
The AGM also provided a platform for National President Datuk William Ng to outline a bold, modernized direction for the association nationwide.
In an era where instant communication platforms like LinkedIn and WhatsApp have made basic networking effortless, Ng emphasized that SAMENTA’s true value lies in fierce, high-level advocacy. He reiterated that the association must serve as a formidable force to lobby for pro-business policies directly with the government. Furthermore, he highlighted the vital need for inclusivity, reminding attendees that SAMENTA belongs to all members and must actively groom the next generation of industry leaders.
A Year of High-Level Diplomacy and AI Leadership
The 2025 Annual Report proved that SAMENTA’s influence is stronger than ever. Over the past year, the Northern Region chapter has been deeply involved in critical economic policymaking. SAMENTA representatives were invited to closed-door roundtable discussions chaired by the Chief Minister of Penang and federal ministers to strategize responses to US tariffs, and participated in exclusive economic outlook dialogues hosted by the Deputy Governor of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM).
On the technology front, SAMENTA cemented its role as a digital catalyst by organizing the highly successful SME AI Conference, which was officiated by the Penang Chief Minister and facilitated a landmark MOU signing. Building on this momentum, the association announced the upcoming “SAMENTA AI Fest 2026.”
Beyond local borders, the association has been expanding its international footprint, conducting official visits with the Governor of Penang (TYT) and the Indonesian Consul General to pave the way for a business and cultural exchange mission to Makassar, Indonesia.
Introducing the 2026-2029 Executive Committee
The newly elected SAMENTA Northern Region 2026-2029 Executive Committee:
- Chairman: Mr. Calvin Kwan (Nuko Marketing (M) Sdn. Bhd.)
- Deputy Chairman: Dr. Celvin Tan (YGL Convergence Bhd.)
- Vice Chairman: Mr. Wong Kee Wei (Safetyware Group Bhd.)
- Secretary: Dr. Henry Tye (Big Domain Sdn Bhd)
- Treasurer: Mr. Fan Kah Seong
- EXCO Members:
- Mr. Yeoh Seng Hooi (Finex Resources)
- Mr. Leong Boon Siang (HNB FEEDING SDN BHD)
- Mr. Lye Hong Loon (Veecotech Solutions Sdn. Bhd.)
- Mr. Chong Cheong Looi (SKY CONVERTING SDN BHD)
About SAMENTA: Empowering Malaysia’s Economic Engine
For decades, the Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA) has stood as the definitive voice for local businesses. As the country’s oldest and most established association for SMEs, SAMENTA does far more than facilitate traditional business networking. It actively shapes national economic policies, fosters industry innovation, and serves as a powerful collective voice advocating for the enterprises that form the very backbone of Malaysia’s economy. Today, that historic mission is evolving rapidly to meet the demands of a tech-driven world.
