World Chinese Evergreen Cup organizing committee
By V. Sivaji
Penang has the honour of hosting the 24th edition of the World Chinese Evergreen Cup 2020 from September 10 to 15, 2023.
The tournament was supposed to be held in 2020 but was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Some 32 teams from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Thailand, Spain, Australia, the Philippines and New Zealand have confirmed participation.
The last tournament in 2019 was held in New Zealand. The tournament is endorsed by the World Chinese Football Association (WCFA).
The Penang Chinese Football Association (PCFA) undertakes to organise the tournament with the support of the Penang State Government through the office of the State Exco of Youth and Sports, Majlis Sukan Negeri Pulau Pinang, Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the Football Association of Penang.
Organising chairman, Teoh Choon Kheng said that they are honoured to host the prestigious tournament after the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The last time the tournament was held in Malaysia was some 28 years ago. There will be some 1,000 participants along with their family and friends.
“The tournament will also boost the tourism industry and also bring economic benefits to the state,” he said at a press conference at the CRC Restaurant yesterday.
Also lending support was Malaysia’s former footballing great, Datuk Wira Soh Chin Aun and WCFA secretary, Lawrence Teng.
The World Chinese Evergreen Cup was initiated in 1989 in Manila, Philippines.
It began as a friendship exchange between participating communities throughout the Asia-Pacific region which also helped the relationship of the predominantly Chinese business communities.
Meanwhile, the organising committee would also like to thank their advisor, Lee Soon Huat for his support and advise in organising the tournament. He has also given his blessings to organise this tournament in Penang.
The organisers hope to invite the Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh for the opening ceremony.
Qualifying matches will be held at the Penang Sports Club and the Polo ground. The finals on Sept 14 will be held at the City Stadium. Entrance is free.