EY launches ey.ai Innovation Center in Penang

Leadership from EY, SAP Malaysia, SAP SEA and Penang State Executive Councillor at the launch of the ey.ai Innovation Center in Penang.

EY Malaysia launches ey.ai Innovation Center in Penang, supporting AI transformation and shaping the future of businesses

PENANG, MALAYSIA (11 NOVEMBER 2025) – Ernst & Young Consulting Sdn. Bhd. (EY Malaysia) has launched its ey.ai Innovation Center in Penang, marking a significant milestone to advance Malaysia’s position as a strategic hub for artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and capability building. This center is designed to help accelerate the adoption of AI technologies, support local talent and facilitate organizations to build the future of intelligent, connected businesses.

The new center extends EY’s flagship ey.ai Innovation Center in Kuala Lumpur, expanding its strategic focus with deep capabilities in SAP AI. This expansion underscores EY’s ambition to drive the AI agenda not only locally but across the region, positioning Penang as a key gateway for AI-enabled business transformation.

The new center offers a detailed suite of programs through its three core components:

• AI Lab: A secure and collaborative environment for businesses to co-create, experiment and scale AI-powered solutions tailored to real-world challenges.
• AI CoE (Center of Excellence): A delivery excellence and talent development hub that helps accelerate the industrialization of AI solutions, support local expertise and builds scalable capabilities for clients and ecosystem partners.
• AI Research: Initiatives targeted to identify high-impact use cases and develop locally relevant solutions with global applications.

“The launch of the ey.ai Innovation Center in Penang is a significant step forward in our mission to help drive technological excellence in Malaysia, as we push the boundaries of what is possible with AI,” said Dato’ Abdul Rauf Rashid, Malaysia Managing Partner, EY Malaysia.

“Through the new center, we are committed to play our parts in building our nation’s AI ecosystem, nurture talent and help businesses unlock new value through innovation, in line with Malaysia’s National AI Roadmap 2030.”

Gaurav Modi, EY Asean Consulting Leader, added, “We believe that AI is a transformative force that can redefine the way we serve our clients. The new center in Penang underscores our commitment to integrating advanced AI solutions into our consulting services. By leveraging these technologies, we aim to unlock deeper insights and drive meaningful innovation, facilitating our clients to navigate complexities and seize new opportunities in an ever-changing business environment.”

The ey.ai Innovation Center in Penang is fully integrated within the EY Global AI Network, facilitating access to global knowledge, leading practices and innovation pathways. It will serve a diverse ecosystem of businesses, public sector organizations, startups and universities helping businesses move from AI exploration to execution.

“AI isn't replacing human and business — it is reimagining what is possible. By supporting local talent and integrating advanced AI solutions, we are poised to drive meaningful changes for our clients and contribute to the global AI ecosystem,” said Jessie Qin, EY Global AI, Chief Data officer.

The center will also showcase and co-develop practical use cases with SAP AI applications across all operations such as finance, supply chain and manufacturing. “The ey.ai Innovation Center in Penang aligns with our shared vision of helping make AI more accessible and impactful for businesses. At SAP, our AI-first, Suite-first strategy is about embedding AI into everyday business processes to support customers in aiming to work smarter and achieve better outcomes. We’re pleased to collaborate with EY to bring these innovations closer to our customers and help support their transformation journeys,” said Liher Urbizu, SAP President and Managing Director for Southeast Asia.

Through the launch of the new center, EY Malaysia reaffirms its role as a trusted transformation partner, helping organizations reimagine business models, improve operational agility and drive sustainable growth with AI. The center will serve as a catalyst for future-forward innovation, connecting local strengths with global opportunities.

“Today’s inauguration marks a defining moment in Penang’s journey toward becoming Malaysia’s Northern AI Powerhouse. Penang stands ready to lead the country’s AI trajectory, connecting our rich manufacturing legacy with a future defined by digital innovation. With our strong ecosystem of global companies, SMEs, research institutions, and digital talent, Penang is well-positioned to become the beating heart of Malaysia’s AI economy,” said Yang Berhormat Zairil Khir Johari, Penang State Executive Councillor for Infrastructure, Transport and Digital.

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