THE Penang Table Tennis Association (PTTA) recorded its highest-ever number of participants at this year’s championship, prompting Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow to suggest that the association consider expanding its facilities to cater to the record-breaking participation.
“With such an overwhelming response, the PTTA leadership must think about whether to build a new hall.
“What we can see here is only part of the participants, and if all were to attend, we would definitely need a bigger hall, or else we may have to reschedule,” Chow said during the opening ceremony of the 5th Penang Chief Minister Cup Interschool Table Tennis Championship 2025 held in Lebuh Macallum today.
A milestone was achieved this year with a total of 288 teams, 705 players, and 80 schools taking part in the three-day tournament starting today.
Chow praised PTTA for successfully organising the tournament for the fifth consecutive edition, adding that the sport continues to produce promising young talents.
“Most importantly, we can see new energy in table tennis. I believe Penang will achieve even better results in Sukma 2026,” he said.
Chow also stressed the need for stronger logistical support in hosting large-scale tournaments and pledged the state government’s commitment to nurturing the sport.
“I hope we continue working together to ensure table tennis develops further and produces new talent in the future,” he added.
To support the effort, Chow announced an allocation of RM50,000 for the tournament itself, while another RM50,000 was given to PTTA.
PTTA president Datuk Michael Tiah expressed his appreciation to the state for its support of the association.
“The recent financial assistance extended to us has given our association renewed strength and confidence as we prepare for Sukma next year,” he said.
He was also proud of the achievements of the young athletes at the 43rd Milo Malaysia Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Championship 2025, where Penang shone brightly, winning five golds, three silvers, and four bronzes.
Also present during the opening ceremony of the tournament were state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Penang State Sports Council director Harry Chai, Chow’s political secretary Lau Keng Ee, and the tournament’s organising chairman Datuk Ang Aing Thye.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis