MORE than 800 young squash players from 19 countries are expected to compete in one of Asia’s most anticipated junior squash tournaments, the ‘PBA 21st Penang (Malaysian) Junior Open 2025’, which will take place at the Nicol David International Squash Centre in Bukit Dumbar, from July 8 to 13.
State Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi said that this tournament will be a great platform for our local talents to gain valuable experience by competing in an international-standard event, which is essential for sports development.
“What is most important is the exposure we give our players. It is not always about medals and prizes; sometimes, that pressure can become a burden. What truly matters is developing their competitive spirit and encouraging more young people to join the sport.
“This is the kind of event that provides meaningful opportunities for our players. These young squash players are the future of our sport, and we are proud to offer them a platform to grow, to test their limits, and to dream big,” Gooi said during a press conference today.
“For the very first time, squash will be featured as one of the official sports at the Olympic Games, which will be held in Los Angeles in 2028. This is a proud moment for the global squash community and a strong motivation for our young players to aim higher.
“Through squash, Malaysia could be on its way to earning its first-ever Olympic gold medal,” he added.
Gooi also noted that national squash player S. Sivasangari has made history as the first Malaysian squash player to be selected for the Road to Gold (RTG) programme.
The tournament is open to both local and international players, featuring 10 categories across five age groups, Under-19 (52 boys and 25 girls), Under-17 (111 boys and 50 girls), Under-15 (137 boys and 74 girls), Under-13 (107 boys and 89 girls), and Under-11 (129 boys and 105 girls).
Meanwhile, Squash Rackets Association of Penang (SRAP) president Datuk Linda Geh highlighted that Penang is the second-largest contingent (local) participating in the tournament.For international participation, the largest and second-largest contingents come from Hong Kong and China, respectively.
Geh also extended her appreciation to the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) for their continued support in sponsoring the event once again. She also expressed her gratitude to the Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP) and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) for their support.
For more information on match times, draws, schedules, accreditation, or sponsorship inquiries, please contact Ahmad Rizal (Secretary of the Squash Rackets Association of Penang) at +6012-493 8580 or Angie Ooi (Tournament Director) at +6011-2847 9024.
Details and highlights of the tournament:-
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis