THE Penang Factories Badminton Team Master Open Championship 2024 (Mitutoyo Cup) has returned for the fifth edition with a huge number of 657 players from 32 factories taking part this year.
The badminton tournament is organised by the GP Sports Event Management. The opening ceremony today was officiated by Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Tan Soo Siang, who represented the state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen.
The one-week tournament officially started today (Sept 9 until 13) at MBPP Relau Sports Complex and Sept 14 until 15 at CRC Badminton Hall.
According to Tan, this year’s tournament features 32 men’s teams, 20 women’s teams, and 68 individual pairs.
“As this year’s tournament marks its fifth edition, we are incredibly proud to see more companies joining us this year, including TT Vision, Pentamaster, Renesas, ACM, Lattice Semiconductor, Osram, Analog Devices, and Lam Research.
“The participation of these companies reflects the continuous commitment of the industry towards the development of sports and youth in our state,” said Tan in her speech.
Tan also reiterated the Penang government’s commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle, especially in the workplace.
“Events like this are a fantastic way to encourage not only friendly competition but also better work-life balance, which is essential for our community’s well-being,” she said.
She also thanked the organiser GP Sports Events Management and the main sponsor, Mitutoyo, a multinational company renowned for its advanced measurement solutions.
“Without Mitutoyo’s generous support and commitment, this championship would not have reached the level of success that we see today.
“We truly appreciate their contributions and hope that this partnership will continue to flourish in the years to come.
“Thus, I wish all the participants the very best. May this tournament not only be a platform for healthy competition but also an opportunity to strengthen bonds between companies and the industrial community.
“May the games be competitive yet fair, and may the spirit of sportsmanship prevail throughout the day,” she concluded.
Also present during the opening ceremony were Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng, Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP) director Harry Chai Heng Hua, Penang Badminton Association president Datuk Kah Kau Kiak, GP Sports Event Management managing director Gary Poh, GP Sports Event Management event manager Bryan Poh, Mitutoyo Asia Pacific managing director Takashi Matsuike, Mitutoyo Malaysia managing director Henry Lee and Mitutoyo Malaysia country sales manager Agnes Leong.
Bryan also announced the company’s plan to expand the tournament next year, with the number of events potentially growing from 52 this year to over 60.
“This expansion promises an even greater level of competition, diversity, and excitement, while providing more opportunities for both new and experienced teams to showcase their talent on this prestigious stage.
“After all, badminton is more than just a game; it is a sport that embodies skill, dedication, passion, and resilience.
“It offers a platform for athletes from all walks of life to connect, fostering not only healthy competition but also camaraderie, mutual respect, and lifelong friendships,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kah also expressed his utmost gratitude and congratulated GP Sports Event Management for their remarkable efforts in organising the tournament.
“It is no easy feat to host such a prestigious competition, and yet, year after year, GP Sports Event Management has consistently delivered nothing short of excellence. This year marks the tournament’s fifth edition, and I must say, the growth of this event has been absolutely astounding.
“I recall when this competition first began. It was just a modest gathering with the hope of nurturing local talent and promoting a healthy lifestyle among corporate employees.
“Now, we are witnessing a truly grand event, with participation from companies and players not only from Penang but far beyond. This would not have been possible without the hard work, vision, and dedication of GP Sports Event Management.
“You have built something truly special, and the success we see today is a testament to your unwavering commitment to the sport of badminton,” said Kah.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat