PIDBR 2025 NOT JUST A SPORTS EVENT BUT A CATAYLST TO BOOST TOURISM AND ECONOMY

GEORGE TOWN, Nov 30 (Bernama) -- The "Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta" 2025 (PIDBR 2025), held at the Straits Quay Marina, here, is not just a sports championship but also a catalyst for tourism, supporting local businesses, and strengthening Penang's economy.

Chairman of the PIDBR Organising Committee Wong Hon Wai, who is also the State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, said the championship also showcases a traditional cultural event renewed with modern international appeal.

"The championship is a strategic investment to create lasting value, and that is why, under Penang's major events policy, we not only focus on attracting new events but also on retaining, enhancing, and globalising the events we already have.

"Penang is also committed to providing the necessary infrastructure, connectivity, and professional organisation to make every event internationally competitive," he told reporters after the Closing Ceremony of the PIDBR 2025, here today.

The closing ceremony and prize presentation were officiated by the Governor of Penang, Tun Ramli Ngah Talib.

Wong said the championship, which tests both physical and mental strength, was participated by 1,600 participants representing 54 teams from countries such as Australia, Brunei, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Liechtenstein, the Philippines, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, and the host, Malaysia.

He mentioned that a total of 11 categories, including the International Senior Open 40 (250 metres), International Mixed Premier, and International Mixed Junior U24, were contested throughout the three days of PIDBR 2025, which ran from last Friday until today.

Wong said that they are not just organising the race but also showcasing Penang to the world - its culture, energy, and the state's ability to deliver excellence.

"We are proving that Penang is an international city, where heritage and modernity coexist, and where every visitor can feel the warmth, cheerfulness, and professionalism," he said.

In the Malaysian Premier Open category, the winner was Pacific West Dragon Boat Club, followed by UNISHAMS Dragon Boat Club in second place and Dragon Venture in third, while PCC Paddlers came in fourth and Penang Island Paddlez Club in fifth.

The International Premier Open category was won by the Thailand team, with Pacific West Dragon Boat Club-A from Malaysia securing second place, and the Guangzhou Baiyun Shangheli Dragon Boat Team from China taking third place.

-- BERNAMA