KUCHING: Sarawak is set to welcome Asia’s top doubles squash players as the state hosts the 3rd Asian Doubles Squash Championship 2026 from June 18 to 21.
Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the prestigious tournament, to be held at the Sarawak Squash Centre in Petra Jaya, will feature elite athletes competing in men’s, women’s and mixed doubles events.
“The hosting of this championship is another important milestone for Sarawak’s sports development agenda and demonstrates our growing capability in organising international sporting events,” he said.
He said during a press conference on the 3rd Asian Doubles Championship at Level 17, Baitul Makmur Building II yesterday (June15).
“A total of 69 players and 21 officials from nine countries will participate, bringing overall attendance to 90 delegates throughout the four-day championship,” he said.
Participating nations are Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, Singapore and Thailand, which will make its championship debut through the mixed doubles category.
“Among the athletes to watch are defending men’s doubles champions Abhay Singh and Velavan Senthilkumar of India, while women’s champion Joshna Chinappa returns to defend her title with a new partner,”he said.
He added that the championship, organised by the Squash Racquets Association of Sarawak (SRAS) and sanctioned by the Asian Squash Federation, forms an important part of Asia’s annual squash calendar.
“Malaysia has been entrusted to host the championship for the third consecutive year, reflecting international confidence in the country’s squash ecosystem, facilities and certified doubles courts.
The inaugural edition was held in Johor Bahru in 2024, followed by a successful tournament in Kuching last year, jointly organised by SRAM and SRAS.
Following that success, SRAS has again been entrusted to host the 2026 edition in collaboration with the Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia and the Asian Squash Federation.
Abdul Karim said the championship is expected to boost sports tourism, generate economic opportunities for local businesses and strengthen Sarawak’s position as a regional sports hub.
“This event also provides valuable exposure for our local athletes, allowing them to compete against some of Asia’s finest doubles players on home soil,” he said.
Abdul Karim expressed appreciation to organisers, sponsors, volunteers and stakeholders, urging the public to support the championship and enjoy world-class squash action in Kuching.
