THE Penang government is looking into establishing a dedicated paintball venue in the state to support the sport’s growing popularity and provide enthusiasts with a permanent place to train and compete.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) Mayor’s Cup Paintball Championship 2026 at Padang Polo, Jalan Sepoy Lines, today, Penang Local Government and Town & Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye said the increasing participation in paintball tournaments reflects the sport’s rising appeal both locally and internationally.
“Through this tournament, we can clearly see the tremendous interest in paintball, with many teams from Malaysia and overseas taking part. This not only showcases the sport’s growing popularity but also attracts paintball enthusiasts from across the region and beyond.
“Given the overwhelming response, one of the biggest challenges we currently face is the lack of a suitable and permanent venue for paintball activities. Therefore, we need to look into setting up a dedicated facility for the sport.
“I will discuss this proposal further with MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran. Together, we will explore the possibility of establishing a permanent paintball venue where players can train, practise and improve their skills. It would also serve as a centre for newcomers and members of the public who wish to learn more about the sport and experience it at any time.
“Although Penang faces limitations in terms of land availability, we will do our best to study the feasibility of turning this idea into a reality,” H’ng said before officially declaring the championship open.
Also present were Rajendran and MBPP councillor Rohaizat Hamid.
Meanwhile, Rajendran welcomed the proposal, saying MBPP fully supports efforts to establish a permanent paintball venue in Penang.
“Every year, we see an increase in the number of participants joining this championship. It is not just because players are passionate about paintball, but also because the tournament gives them the opportunity to experience everything Penang has to offer.
“They come here not only for our world-famous food but also to enjoy the state’s clean environment, attractions and hospitality.
“As YB H’ng mentioned, we are now exploring the possibility of identifying a permanent location where paintball enthusiasts can play, train and organise activities throughout the year,” he said.
Rajendran also revealed that MBPP is considering increasing the championship’s top prize from RM9,000 to an even higher amount for next year’s edition.
“Our goal is simple, we want to make the MBPP Mayor’s Cup Paintball Championship one of the biggest and most prestigious paintball tournaments in Asia,” he added.
The MBPP Mayor’s Cup Paintball Championship 2026 is a three-day tournament held from June 26 to 28. Jointly organised by MBPP and Raskal Sports Sdn Bhd, the championship brings together some of the finest paintball talents from Malaysia and abroad.
This year’s edition has attracted an impressive 110 teams competing across six categories, with participants battling for a total prize pool of nearly RM50,000.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Alissala Thian