KUCHING: The Xiang Qi Samarahan District Association organised the 1 versus 100 Xiang Qi talents programme for the first time, featuring Calvin Tay who participated in the game at Boulevard Mall here on Saturday.
With support from the Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Ministry, the programme was being held to attract public participation, especially from the Chinese community and primary school students.
“Through this programme, we are sure that we can continuously promote Xiang Qi as a heritage that is valuable to be cherished and treasured.
This not only can strengthen the bonds and harmony of the Chinese community but also can contribute to a positive and active competition among themselves,” said organising chairman, Kingsley Tay Liang Kok.
Xiang Qi Kuching District Association Vice-Chairman, Sim Yip How, also shared his thoughts on the programme.
“Personally, Calvin Tay is one of my students that I taught, and he played Xiang Qi from a very young age, up to the point where he is now the champion of East Malaysia, the representative of Xiang Qi’s Malaysia team,” he said.
Sim also mentioned that this programme was being held to prepare Tay for the upcoming big event that needs support from society itself.
“This is not a competition; it is a programme that we organise to hype up the upcoming East Malaysia game, which will be on May 1 to 3, where we urge support from the public, especially the Chinese community to support the game.
“Moreover, there is no time limit in playing Xiang Qi, as all opponents consist of different tactics each set.
“So, with the taking turn of sparring with 100 participants, we want to see how Tay is performing and how long will his stamina stay,” he said.
He mentioned that it is a vital measurement for them to see a wider perspective of Tay’s performance that can be utilised for the next game.
