PREPARATIONS for the Penang Badminton Association’s (PBA) grand centennial celebration this November are well underway.
The milestone event will be held at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre on Nov 22 and is expected to draw over 2,000 guests, marking a historic chapter in Penang’s sporting landscape.
PBA president Datuk Kah Kau Kiak said the 100th anniversary will not only serve as a celebration of the association’s proud legacy but also as a reunion for Penang’s former national and state shuttlers.
“It is remarkable that the Penang Badminton Association, founded in 1925, is the oldest badminton organisation in Malaysia, even predating the establishment of the Badminton World Federation,” Kah told Buletin Mutiara today.
He added that the centennial dinner would honour badminton icons and pay tribute to both past and present state players who have helped shape the sport’s growth in Penang and beyond.
“2025 is a milestone year for us. This celebration is not just about reflecting on our rich history but also about envisioning the future.
“I encourage all members to actively support and participate in the planning and execution of this once-in-a-lifetime event.
“We must ensure that Penang badminton continues to grow stronger and achieve even greater heights,” he said.
Kah also revealed that several Malaysian badminton legends will attend the celebration.
Among them are national icons Datuk Lee Chong Wei and Chan Peng Soon, who will showcase their Olympic medals, trophies, and racquets.
Also joining the event is Goh Jin Wei, Malaysia’s top women’s singles player, who will display her two World Junior Championship gold medals along with personal memorabilia.
“Chong Wei, Malaysia’s most decorated men’s singles shuttler, will serve as the official ambassador for the celebration. He has won three Olympic silver medals — at Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Rio 2016.
“Peng Soon, together with Goh Liu Ying, delivered Malaysia’s first-ever Olympic silver medal in mixed doubles at Rio 2016.
“This is a meaningful moment, not only for PBA but for all Malaysians. Chong Wei, Peng Soon, and Jin Wei all began their badminton journey in Penang.
“We are proud of their remarkable achievements and grateful for their continued connection to their roots. They are true inspirations for the next generation,” Kah said.
He also mentioned that several former greats have also confirmed their attendance, including 1967 Thomas Cup champions Datuk Yew Cheng Hoe and Datuk Tan Aik Huang, former Thomas Cup first singles Saw Swee Leong, ex-Uber Cup players Lim Siew Choon and Khor Lay See, as well as Penang stalwarts Koay Kar Lin and Chuah Han Khim.
He said the association has invited these veterans to contribute medals, trophies, racquets, and other memorabilia for a special exhibition in conjunction with the celebration.
“They have all graciously agreed to return to Penang, to reconnect with old friends, and to share their priceless collections with the public,” Kah said.
He added that he was deeply touched by the veterans’ willingness to prepare their personal memorabilia for the exhibition.
“Their fighting spirit and achievements remain the brightest chapters in Penang’s badminton history.
“We hope the public will take this rare opportunity to relive the glory days and celebrate the legends who once shone on the international stage,” Kah said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix courtesy of Penang Badminton Association