By V. Sivaji
Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow made an early start to the day with a stopover at the Kompleks Belia & Sukan Pulau Pinang to launch the “UNITARlympics 2025 series organised by the UNITAR Education Group this morning.
Some 11,000 participants from all over the country are taking part in the games.Organised by UNITAR Education Group, the sports festival will see competition in futsal, netball, e-sports and Aerodance, designed to showcase student talent, teamwork, and leadership.
On hand to welcome Chow was Prof. Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ir. Dr. Sahol Hamid Abu Bakar, Vice Chancellor of UNITAR International University; and Dato Puvan Balachandran, CEO of UNITAR Education Group.
Also in attendance were senior leaders from UNITAR and representatives from the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The event celebrates the theme “Empowering Unity Through Sports and Education,” reflecting UNITAR’s commitment to holistic student development and national cohesion.
The event also highlights UNITAR’s inclusive approach, with students from 25 locations nationwide, including Sabah and Sarawak.
“If you are agile on the field during the competition, do not be surprised if you are also quick to line up for nasi kandar, pasembur at Persiaran Gurney, or laksa in Air Itam afterward.
“This is the uniqueness of Penang — not just a place to gain knowledge and sharpen your talents, but also to indulge in delicious food and create beautiful memories with your loved ones.” quipped Chow in his speech.
On a serious note he said that the Penang State Government consistently emphasizes the need to produce a young generation that excels not only academically, but also possesses physical endurance, sharp thinking, and a spirit of leadership.
He also added that with the upcoming Merdeka celebrations this August 31, the sporting events showcase a symbol of the strength of Malaysian unity.
“Here, we witness how the spirit of sportsmanship can unite people from various backgrounds — through healthy competition, shared cheers, and a common determination,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Sahol Hamid added that UNITAR takes pride in providing a holistic education for our students, which includes activities and sporting events.
“These games are a platform to foster healthy competitive spirit and encourage to form lasting friendships. Through sports, we also promote values of resilience and unity, while encouraging students to care for their physical health and mental well-being,” he said.
The UNITARlympics will continue until tomorrow Aug 29, 2025 culminating in a closing ceremony that celebrates not only athletic achievement but also the values of unity, resilience and student empowerment.
