KUCHING: The Kuching Dragon Boat (KDB) made waves at the 10th FCAS International Dragon Boat Race in Sabah, held from May 16–18 at the scenic Likas Bay.
Competing against top-tier teams from across Malaysia and abroad, KDB fielded a strong 32-member contingent across six race categories.
In the 200m events, the men’s 12-crew team gained valuable race experience, the mixed 12-crew team finished 4th in the finals, and the women’s 12-crew team secured a bronze medal. The masters 12-crew team also qualified for the finals but withdrew due to a scheduling clash with the 800m race.
In the 800m events, both the mixed and men’s 20-crew teams earned silver medals.
In a statement, KDB shared that since March 1, the team had been training six days a week, rain or shine.
“That commitment and unity were rewarded with medals, recognition, and deep pride. KDB have been a regular contender at the Sabah race since 2015 — except in 2019, when the team competed in Nanning, China; in 2024, in Nanchang, China; and during 2020–2022 due to the pandemic. The team have constantly pushed boundaries and redefined limits.
“Notably, from 2016 to 2018, KDB won three consecutive gold medals in the 800m 20-crew Mixed category — a legendary streak in Malaysia’s dragon boat history,” the statement read.
Looking ahead, from May 28 to June 3, KDB will compete in the Haikou International Dragon Boat Invitational in China, participating in the 1000m 22-crew International Open Race.
“The event is more than just a sporting competition — it is a cultural mission and a chance to raise the Malaysian flag on the international stage with pride and honour.”
KDB president Lim Che Chien expressed immense pride in the team’s Sabah performance.
“I saw the sweat, the grit, and every shout of determination on the racecourse — and I was deeply moved. Our paddlers are fearless, committed, and united. That is the essence of dragon boating.
“This is a team that deserves to be seen, respected, and celebrated. KDB is more than just a sports team — we are cultural ambassadors and the pride of Kuching,” Lim said.
Additionally, KDB invite young people of all races and backgrounds to join their journey and experience a unique sport that is built on discipline, spirit, and teamwork.
As a self-funded club, KDB continue to face challenges from high costs and limited resources. Support from government agencies or private sponsors could help the club grow and continue to represent Sarawak and Malaysia proudly on the global stage.
For more information, sponsorship enquiries or to join the team, email kuchingdragonboat@gmail.com or contact president Lim Che Chien at 012-8897000.
