THE stars continue to shine brightly on Penang’s chess sensation, Poh Yu Tian, 15, as he won the first gold for the state under the Rapid Men’s category at the 21st Malaysian Games (Sukma XXI) in Kuching, Sarawak.
This is a historic moment as it marks the first chess has been represented at Sukma.
Sharing his delight with Buletin Mutiara, Yu Tian said although he is happy with his achievement so far, he refuses to be overwhelmed and wants to stay focused on the upcoming events.
He will be competing in the Rapid Team and Blitz Men’s categories in the coming days.
“I am happy but the upcoming two events are very important too.
“So, my aim now is to stay focused and not get too overwhelmed,” Yu Tian said.
In addition to his Sukma success, Yu Tian recently attained his third norm and rightfully earned himself the International Master (IM) titleholder at the 8th Eastern Asia Youth Chess Championship (EAYCC) on July 20 held at Cititel Hotel in George Town.
On the same night, he was awarded the PMX trophy, a special award to honour a Malaysian with an overall best performance throughout the championship.
With an overall rating of 2,429 after the championship, Yu Tian also became the youngest and the 10th Malaysian chess player to win the title, and the third from Penang.
Meanwhile, Sim Jia Ru, 19, won the bronze medal in the Rapid Women’s category, adding joy to the Penang team.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi