SUNSHINE Central in Air Itam will host its first-ever ‘3×3 Basketball Challenge 2025’ on Aug 30 and 31 in conjunction with Malaysia’s 68th National Day celebration.
The two-day event, scheduled to take place at the Main Atrium (Level 1) of Sunshine Central from 10am to 9pm, aims to bring together youths from across Penang for a vibrant celebration of sports, community spirit and patriotism.
Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, who announced the tournament at a press conference today, encouraged youths aged 12 to 18 to participate and demonstrate teamwork, discipline and resilience through competitive play.
“This is the first basketball tournament hosted by Sunshine Central and one of the few 3-on-3 competitions held in a shopping mall setting locally.
“The timing makes it more meaningful as it coincides with National Day. Through this platform, we aim to promote healthy living, foster community bonds, and energise the younger generation,” he said.
The tournament is expected to attract teams from across the state, along with parents and basketball enthusiasts, for a festive lead-up to National Day.
Ng said the event aligns with the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ development initiatives and supports the national agenda of encouraging a healthier lifestyle.
“Sports is not just about winning, but also about building character, mindset and teamwork,” he added.
The tournament offers cash and prizes worth up to RM17,000, including merchandise and gift packs. A special shooting challenge will also be held during the event.
Registration is open until Aug 1 via QR code provided by the organiser. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis.
“I urge all basketball-loving youths to take this opportunity to challenge themselves and form teams. We also invite the public to attend and support the players, making this one of the most spirited youth events in Penang ahead of National Day,” said Ng.
Tournament categories are as follows (open to both boys and girls):
U12 & U15: RM150 per team (limited to 32 teams)
U18: RM180 per team (limited to 24 teams)
For more information, visit Sunshine Central’s social media or contact:
Mr UU at 016-435 9438
Mr Loh at 012-421 6219
Mr Paul Ang at 016-477 1066
Also present at the press conference were Penang Youngsters Basketball Club secretary Lim Kean Huat, committee member Mayfield Tan, and Sunshine Central Marketing Communications Department senior executive Cheow Ling Ling.
Story by Edmund Lee