The Clinical Research Centre Hospital Pulau Pinang was established in 2001 and has been operational since 2003 with the aim to promote, support and conduct clinical research. The establishment of the CRC in Penang as part of the network of CRCs, is in line with the Ministry of Health emphasis on clinical research as a means to resolve a variety of health-related problems.

In its effort to build a pool of experts in clinical research, the CRC in Hospital Pulau Pinang also provides guidance and resources in preparation of study protocols, documentations, and training in conduct, presentation, publication, and ethical clinical research. Working in collaboration with CRC in Kuala Lumpur Hospital, CRC in Penang undertake research, and provide research-related services, CME (continuing medical education) and training courses including research methodology, biostatics and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) workshops.