KUCHING: The Kuching Chess Association (PCBK) is looking several moves ahead with the inaugural Yusuf Cup 2026, hoping to establish the new tournament as a major fixture on the local chess calendar before eventually building a reputation of its own.
Set for Oct 10 at Pustaka Negeri Sarawak from 8 am to 6 pm, the tournament will be PCBK’s final official competition of 2026.
PCBK president Chuang Kuang Hong said the tournament was named in recognition of the association’s patron, Datuk Yusuf Abd Wahab, for his continuous support and encouragement towards the development of chess and the association.
However, Chuang said PCBK hoped the Yusuf Cup would eventually stand as a recognised event in its own right.
“Our long-term aspiration is to develop it into a prestigious and internationally recognised chess event, perhaps one day carrying a reputation of its own just as major sporting competitions such as the Thomas Cup have done”, he told Sarawak Tribune.
For its inaugural edition, registration has been kept at RM20, with more than RM5,000 in cash prizes on offer. Every participant will also receive a gift, with lucky draws and other surprises planned throughout the event.
Registration is now open, with only 80 of the 150 available places remaining. Entries close on Sept 30.
Adding a new dimension to this year’s tournament is a three-player team competition, with each team required to include at least one female player.
Chuang said the format was intended to encourage teamwork while providing greater opportunities for female participation in competitive chess.
The tournament is supported by the Sarawak Chess Association (PCNS), while Pustaka Negeri Sarawak is the venue sponsor.
Chuang said the tournament also represents PCBK’s wider effort to make chess accessible while strengthening the local chess community.
“Ultimately, Yusuf Cup represents what PCBK hopes to achieve through our motto, ‘Shaping Minds, Building Champions’.
“We want to build not only stronger chess players, but also a stronger chess culture in Kuching, Sarawak,” he added.
He thanked PCNS and Pustaka Negeri Sarawak for their support in making the inaugural tournament possible.
Registration costs RM20 and is available through PCBK’s online registration form.
For enquiries, contact Adrian at 013-620 2768, Hamdan at 018-983 3087, Ai Ting at 011-3178 0018, Jim at 012-604 3391 or Chin Chin at 012-408 6026.
