THE annual Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta (PIDBR) 2023 in Teluk Bahang Dam continues to attract teams from around the world, making it an international race.
Dubbed as one of Penang’s dynamic sports events, the yearly PIDBR provides a unique opportunity for mutual exchange and understanding in the passion for dragon boat racing.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, present to officiate the two-day event, congratulated the state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai and his team for their tremendous efforts in making PIDBR 2023 a success.
“This healthy sporting event brings individuals from different countries and cultural backgrounds together. I am pleased to note that this year’s participation has a larger scale compared to last year.
“A total of 62 teams from 14 countries participated this year, compared to last year’s event with 42 teams from seven countries. This demonstrates the success of the event and its growing popularity.
“This event also serves as an outstanding opportunity to promote Penang’s tourism, allowing us to showcase our rich and diverse culture to the world.
“Participants and spectators from across the globe can experience our warm hospitality, as well as our heritage and cultural values,” said Chow in his speech.
Teams from countries such as Australia, the Philippines, and Brunei also took part in the event.
The thrilling event made a comeback last year after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Wong, expressing gratitude to the sponsors, highlighted their unwavering support.
Sponsors include the International Dragon Boat Regatta, Himalaya Sports Candy Brand, platinum sponsor Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), Mercure Hotel, Emico, 100 Plus, Starbucks, and CelcomDigi.
Wong emphasised that the two-day event would contribute to the local economy as participants explore places of interest in the state.
Among the attendees witnessing the annual event were the consul-general of China in Penang Zhou Youbin and PBAPP chief executive officer K. Pathmanathan.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix and video by Darwina Mohd Daud