Teams racing during the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2024 at Straits Quay Marina. — Filepic
UP TO 100,000 visitors are expected at the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta at Straits Quay Marina from Nov 28 to 30.
Over 55 teams from 10 countries and regions had registered for this year’s regatta under the Inclusivity theme.
The event, to be held from 8am to 4pm daily, will feature para dragon boat athletes too.
The participation of the Darkness Fighters Dragon Boat team, Pink Power team and Cancer Survivors Dragon Boat team (all from Hong Kong) and PADS Adaptive Dragon Boat Racing team (the Philippines) will make the event even more special.
“It is not just about strength and speed but about resilience, teamwork and courage to push boundaries,” said state tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
“We want to send a clear message that no one is left behind and everyone has a place on the boat.
“Inclusivity is not only about who races, but also about who watches, who celebrates and who feels welcome.
“This is Penang’s way of showing that sports tourism is not just an industry but a platform for unity, empowerment and shared joy.”
Hong Kong has one of the richest dragon boat traditions in the world with teams well known for their skill, spirit and passion.
He said their presence in Penang would not just boost the competition, but also reflected the strong ties between Penang and Hong Kong.
“Penang and Hong Kong share a natural connection as dynamic, multicultural destinations with deep traditions and modern energy,” said Wong as reported by state publisher Buletin Mutiara.
“And we are proud that our partnership has also received strong support from the Hong Kong government.”
He said the regatta was being held at Straits Quay to be closer to the community, allowing families to gather by the waterfront, enjoy the restaurants and shops, and experience the excitement of the competition in a festive atmosphere.
“We are also encouraged by the incredible participation we have seen this year from both local and international teams.
“We are excited to welcome a new team from Liechtenstein, marking their first-ever participation in our event.
“Other than that, this year, teams from Australia are also participating.
“It is truly inspiring to see teams from different backgrounds, cultures and countries coming together in Penang to celebrate the same tradition, united by the same spirit of competition and camaraderie,” said Wong.
The regatta, he added, would stimulate the local economy and showcase Penang as a world-class destination.
“When we talk about dragon boat racing in Penang, we are not just talking about a sport.
“We are talking about something that is deeply woven into our history, our culture and our community.”
The Eastern & Oriental Bhd is both the platinum and venue sponsor for the event.
The Penang International Dragon Boat Race began in 1979 at Gurney Drive.
Later, it moved to Teluk Bahang Dam, becoming a popular annual event for decades.
In 2024, a new chapter began as the regatta moved to the Straits Quay Marina.
