THE Penang Table Tennis Association (PTTA) plays a vital role as a key platform for community involvement in promoting the sport, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
Chow expressed his hope that PTTA would continue to nurture skilled table tennis players capable of representing both the state and the nation in the future.
“I believe PTTA has the capacity to achieve this, especially with the support of the state government and collaboration from industry players.
“Together, we can elevate the sport while encouraging greater participation from the community,” Chow remarked during the official opening of the 4th Penang Chief Minister Cup Interschool Table Tennis Championship at Gat Lebuh Macallum today.
This two-day tournament features 635 players from 264 teams, representing 73 primary and secondary schools across Penang, marking a significant increase in participation compared to 2019.
“Back then, we saw 347 players from 147 teams and 50 schools took part,” Chow said, noting the tournament’s impressive growth.
Highlighting the broader impact of sports, Chow emphasised that activities like table tennis foster community unity and strengthen bonds.
“I am confident that PTTA will continue to work alongside us in producing quality athletes for the future,” he added, commending Penang’s table tennis team for their outstanding performance at the 2024 Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak, where they earned two silver medals and one bronze.
PTTA president Datuk Michael Tiah expressed his gratitude to the state for its unwavering support in making the tournament a success.
“This event has garnered tremendous support from schools across Penang, making it the largest tournament we have ever organised.
“It is an excellent platform for players to showcase their talents and aspire to represent Penang in the future,” Tiah said.
During the opening ceremony, Chow presented two mock cheques, with RM50,000 allocated to PTTA and an additional RM45,000 specifically for the tournament.
Also present at the event were Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, PTTA deputy president Datuk Ang Aing Thye, and Chow’s political secretary Lau Keng Ee.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video by Siew Chia En