By V. Sivaji
Penang should be known not only for its food and heritage, but also as an international city where major global events take place. This was the message from Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow during his speech at the launch of the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2025, held earlier today at the Straits Quay Retail Marina.
This year’s regatta features a total of 54 teams and more than 1,600 participants from Australia, Brunei Darussalam, China, Hong Kong (China), Japan, Liechtenstein, the Philippines, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, and of course, Malaysia.
“Today’s gathering is not just about competition; it is a tribute to a legacy that has shaped Penang for nearly seven decades. Penang’s involvement with dragon boats dates back to the 1950s at Gurney Drive.
“For the second year, we have gathered at Straits Quay Retail Marina to celebrate a new chapter in this meaningful journey,” said Chow.
A host of dignitaries were present at the launch ceremony, including State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai, the Consul General of China in Penang Mr. Zhou You Bin, Penang Mayor Dato A. Rajendran, Penang Global Tourism CEO Ooi Chok Yan, Ms. Libera Cheng, Director General of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, and Dato Sri Tee Eng Ho, Executive Chairman of E&O Berhad, among others.
Meanwhile, Wong highlighted that dragon boat racing began as an ancient ritual rooted in unity, rhythm, and community—yet it has now evolved into a global sport that connects people across borders.
“And when the world gathers here in Penang to compete, celebrate, and share this heritage, it speaks to something much bigger than competition: it speaks to Penang’s growing strength as a home for major international events.
“Events of this scale do not simply fill our waterfront with colour — they fuel our state’s economy. They create demand for hotels, F&B, retail, transport, creative services, and community businesses. They breathe life into our tourism ecosystem and reaffirm that Penang is not only a beautiful destination but also a capable and reliable host for global gatherings,” Wong said in his speech.
He added that the participation of so many teams reflects the confidence the international community has in Penang, as well as the strong relationships the state continues to build year after year.