IN the midst of the ongoing Sukma in Sarawak, Penang’s emerging chess talents are poised to make their mark in the upcoming chess competition.
Scheduled to run from tomorrow till Aug 24 at the Dewan Jubli UiTM Samarahan in Kota Samarahan, Kuching, the tournament promises to be both challenging and exciting for these players.
In a recent interview with Buletin Mutiara, several players shared some insights on participating in Sarawak Sukma. Below are their comments:
Sim Jia Ru, 19
Jia Ru, who recently graduated from Dalat International School, brings 12 years of chess experience to the table.
Her journey began in her school’s chess club, where she found playing chess fun and fell in love with the game.
Jia Ru’s dedication has earned her the highest female chess rating in Malaysia.
“I am proud to represent my state and excited to give my best performance at SUKMA,” she said.
Her past experiences include competing in the SEA Games in Hanoi, and other international and domestic tournaments.
Jia Ru finds inspiration from athletes in various sports and her supportive family.
Divyadarrshini Loganathan,19
Divyadarrshini, a student from Kolej Matrikulasi Kedah, is making her debut at Sukma this year.
Having played chess since she was nine, Divyadarrshini was drawn to the game by its challenging nature, which helps develop creative thinking and memory skills.
“I am honoured to be selected for Sukma, and I hope Penang athletes can become champions,” she added.
Nurul Akma Quzaina Khairolhisal
Nurul Akma Quzaina Khairolhisal, from Kolej Matrikulasi Pulau Pinang, has been playing chess for about 10 years.
Inspired by her father, she is thrilled to compete in Sukma, which has long been her personal goal.
“I am thankful for the opportunity and hope we can continue to support and motivate each other,” Nurul said.
Poh Yu Tian, 15
Yu Tian, 15, a student from Tenby Schools Penang, has been playing chess for eight years.
According to Poh, he loves the game for its complexity and endless possibilities.
“I feel grateful and excited to represent Penang at Sukma this year and look forward to showcasing my skills,’’ Yu Tian said.
He recently won the Under-18 Open category of the recently concluded Eastern Asia Youth Chess Championship held in Penang and the 4th Mini Penang Chess Open 2024. Additionally, he finished joint-first in the 15th Penang Heritage City International Chess Open 2023.
Other players participating in the tournament include Agnes Chong Kai Ni and Chuah Jia-Tien. We wish our players, all the best!
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix courtesy of Penang Chess Association