PETALING JAYA: For a state that has produced some of Malaysia’s greatest badminton legends, Penang Badminton Association (BA) are not content to rest on their past glory.
Founded nine years before the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and a decade before the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), this year’s 100th anniversary marks both a reflection on their glorious past and a pledge to shape a brighter future.
Deputy organising chairman Datuk Jack Koh sees this milestone as a powerful reminder of the association’s responsibility to continue setting the standard for excellence.
"The state has produced legendary winners such as the late Datuk Eddy Choong, Wong Peng Soon, Tan Aik Huang and Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei, all of whom were multiple-time All-England winners," he said.
"Penang has also contributed significantly to Malaysia’s success as a five-time Thomas Cup champions and continues to produce top talents like Teh Kew San, Datuk Yew Cheng How, Chan Peng Soon, Goh Jin Wei and Loh Kean Yew."
Penang BA’s legacy is not only about trophies and titles, but it’s also about leadership and vision.
Jack believes that the association’s next generation of leaders will play a crucial role in carrying the legacy forward and lead the way in shaping the sport’s evolution.
"Since it is a 100-year old association, I believe that if any revolutionary changes are to take place in the badminton industry, it would be fitting for the next president of Penang BA to take the lead," he said.
"I also hope that one of the legends mentioned earlier could one day return to Penang to lead."
To celebrate their centenary, a multi-venue event would be hosted from Nov 17-23, stretching from Komtar Penang to Penang International Airport.
The nine key events set to be organised are That’s Great Industry Summit (Nov 17-23), USM-AUSC International Sports Innovation Challenge (Nov 22-23), Penang BA Century Cup (Nov 21-23), BAM coaching course level 1, Spice Aquatic Cup, Butterfly Ping Pong Cup, Great Pickleball Cup, 2nd Petrina Cup International Rhythmic Gymnastics Tournament and Penang BA 100th Anniversary Gala Dinner.
