The Penang CSC Dragon Boat Festival 2026 successfully concluded last Sunday at the Chinese Swimming Club Penang, Tanjung Bungah, bringing together athletes, families, and visitors for a vibrant day of dragon boat racing, cultural activities, and community celebration in conjunction with the Duanwu (Dumpling) Festival.
Jointly organised by the Chinese Swimming Club Penang and the Penang Dragon Boat Association, the event featured competitive races in the 12-crew and 22-crew categories, as well as a Stand-Up Paddling (SUP) competition. This event is also supported by Penang State EXCO Office for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE). There are 9 local teams participating in the race.
Across all categories, teams delivered strong performances marked by teamwork, endurance, and competitive spirit, with Dragon Ark B dominating both dragon boat divisions.
Beyond the races, visitors enjoyed cultural and family-friendly activities including Bak Chang wrapping demonstrations, DIY Xiang Bao workshops, face painting, live music, and community dining by the seaside, creating a festive atmosphere that blended sport and heritage.
YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, said the event reflects Penang’s continued focus on strengthening sports tourism and developing a sustainable grassroots sporting ecosystem under the Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee (PETACE).
“Through PETACE, we are committed to supporting more sporting events across Penang, from grassroots competitions to major regional and international tournaments. These events help nurture local talent, encourage active lifestyles, and at the same time boost tourism spending and economic activity in the state.
The Penang CSC Dragon Boat Festival is a strong example of how sport, culture, and tourism can come together to benefit the community while showcasing Penang’s unique identity,” he said.
He also highlighted that Penang is gearing up for the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta on 27 to 29 November 2026.
“We are looking forward to the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta (PIDBR) this November, organised by PETACE, which will further strengthen Penang’s position as a leading dragon boat and sports tourism hub in the region,” he added.
Results – 12-Crew Category:
* Champion: Dragon Ark B (00:54.00)
* 1st Runner-Up: Northern Dragon (Kanu Baling) (00:56.36)
* 2nd Runner-Up: Dragon Ark C (00:56.46)
22-Crew Category:
* Champion: Dragon Ark B (00:49.26)
* 1st Runner-Up: PCC Paddlers (00:51.11)
* 2nd Runner-Up: Dragon Ark A (00:52.36)
SUP Category:
* Champion: Muhammad Fadzil bin Mohd Lutfi (01:59.99)
* 1st Runner-Up: Tan Hooi Houng (02:00.10)
* 2nd Runner-Up: Louie Tan (02:16.16)