The Northern International Audio & Visual Show (NIAV) will return to Penang this month, showcasing the latest in audio-visual technology while offering free performances to engage the public. The three-day event will take place from 25th to 27th April at Setia SPICE Convention Centre.
The press conference announcing the event was attended by several key figures including YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State EXCO for Tourism & Creative Economy; Datin Bharathi Suppiah, Director of Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and General Manager of Chief Minister Penang Incorporated; Mr Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO of PCEB; Mr Wilson Teoh, Director of Gryphon Production; Mr Oh Kin Tat, Head of Setia SPICE Convention Centre; and Ms Andrea Cheah, Director of Olive Tree Hotel Penang.
Now in its third year, NIAV 2025 aims to make high-end audio and visual technology more accessible to the general public. Mr Ashwin Gunasekeran highlighted the growing international recognition of the event: “We’ve got more than 50 extra exhibitors all the way from Singapore, China, Lithuania, Taiwan, Denmark, Canada and there’s many more countries that are incoming. The presence actually reflects the increasing international recognition of this event within the third year, and there’s also been a lot of requests in terms of expanding the business models into the next. For example, opening up showrooms in Penang, opening up R&D centres in Penang to even explore further.”
As part of efforts to promote cultural accessibility and inclusivity, NIAV 2025 will host a free concert featuring internationally renowned Japanese soul singer Nao Yoshioka but not forgetting local acts from Northern Jazz Unit, Tonal Alchemy just to name a few. Special needs duo Alan Cheah and Joel Teng who call themselves “A Surprise”. These 2 young men are persons with special needs who are living with some visible and invisible challenges in their life. However, the challenges are not the stopper for them bring their unique passion & style and to shine in their own ways on the stage. This free performance aligns with the organisers’ commitment to providing quality entertainment without financial barriers.
The organisers have positioned NIAV as more than just an exhibition but as a complete experience. Mr Wilson Teoh emphasised the distinctive approach taken this year: “We are trying to be very different here to show that Penang is, you know, thinking far ahead. We are not just another 80s show, but rather we are able to do with everything that you hear and we are targeting new consumers. Trying to revive some of industries which we see that are slowing down. Now, when it comes to the performances. It was an intention amongst all parties to try to stimulate in arts and performance in Penang. So, by doing that, we felt let’s put on some free performances.”
YB Wong Hon Wai spoke about the economic benefits of hosting such events: “NIAV fuels economic opportunities. The influx of exhibitors, professionals and visitors translates into business for hotels, restaurants, transportation and local retailers, benefitting a wide range of industries beyond just audiovisual technology. Events like this help strengthen Penang’s business events industry, which is a vital driver of our state’s economic progress.”
The event is organised with support from the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB), which aims to position Penang as a preferred location for business events in the region. PCEB provides assistance to organisations and event planners, working alongside professional service providers, hotels, convention centres and venues.
Visitors to NIAV 2025 can expect to experience the latest innovations in sound and vision technology, with opportunities to engage with industry experts and enjoy live performances in a festival-like atmosphere. Whether seasoned audiophiles, tech enthusiasts, or casual music lovers, attendees will find something of interest at this comprehensive audio-visual showcase.
For more information about the event, interested parties can visit the official website at https://www.northern-av.com or follow updates on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/northernavpenang.
