The Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta is set to make a grand return this year at the Teluk Bahang Dam on the Nov 23rd and 24th, 2024.
A press conference to announce the event was held at Komtar headed by State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.
Also present were the various sponsors and supporters.
This annual event promises to be a spectacular showcase of cultural heritage, international sportsmanship, and fierce competition.
A total of 60 teams from around the world have expressed their interest in participating. Notably, teams will be traveling from as far as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Netherlands and United Kingdom (UK) highlighting the festival’s global appeal.
“This year is a dragon year and also the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China. This year’s festival will feature a special friendship celebration event. We are honoured to collaborate with the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Penang to mark this significant milestone, reflecting the deep and enduring ties between our two nations.
“Additionally, we are delighted to announce our collaboration with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in Jakarta. This partnership is aimed at encouraging more teams from Hong Kong to join the festival, further enriching the event with diverse participation and strengthening regional ties”, said Wong.
He also welcomed Angsana Hotel Teluk Bahang as the official hotel sponsor for this year’s race. .
The Penang Dragon Boat race has a storied history that dates back to the 1950s.
“This year, we are also proud to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta. Over the past four and a half decades, the festival has grown from a local event to an internationally recognized competition, reflecting the resilience and spirit of Penang’s diverse community”, added Wong.
One of the key aspects that set the Penang Dragon Boat Race apart is its international participation. Teams from around the world, including China, Hong Kong, UK, Australia, Netherlands, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, UAE, Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines, Chinese Taipei and Malaysian teams, come to Penang to compete.