The Opening of FIBA 3X3 World Tour Penang 

Speech by Chief Minister of Penang

At The Opening of FIBA 3X3 World Tour Penang 

Gurney Paragon, Gurney Drive
3.30pm, 13 October 2018

YB Soon Lip Chee
Penang State Executive Councillor for Youth and Sports

Dato’ Khor Siang Gin
Hunza Group Managing Director

Ms Khor Tze Ming
Executive Director of Hunza Group

Dato Ooi Khoon Yeong
Chairman of Penang Basketball Association

Ms. Grace Khor
Managing Director of World Hoops

Mr. Ng Wui Heong
Chairman of Youngster Basketball Club

Mr. Neoh Sim Guan
Vice Chairman of Youngster Basketball Club

Mr. E.K. Ewe
Group Chairman/Managing Director of Eng Kah Corporation Berhad

Mr. Karl Steinkamp
Director of Dalat International School

Distinguished guests,

Media friends,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning everyone! Selamat datang, or welcome, to those new to Penang. To those returning, we are so glad to see you again.

As a whole community, we are grateful and honored to host such a prestigious event here in Penang. This world-class tournament will certainly solidify the reputation of our state as one of the top destinations in the world, be it in terms of tourism, education, medical services, heritage preservation or sporting events. This means a lot to us to have the opportunity to showcase Penang through a distinguished, international sporting event like this.

Over the years, in conjunction with World Hoops, Penang has organized numerous FIBA 3X3 Challengers, and now we have taken the next step by bringing a FIBA 3X3 Masters to Penang. This progression clearly shows that the sports culture and industry of Penang is booming. Thus, we will continue to strive for improvements and achieve greater levels in presenting better events for both the players and the audience.

In the bigger picture, these competitions allow us to open the doors into our beautiful island and invite people from different backgrounds and countries to enjoy the uniqueness of Penang. We desire to have more people, visitors and spectators alike, to experience our dynamic culture, our renown food, and the welcoming people of our island.

Throughout this weekend, I encourage you visiting our island to delve into the community of Penang. The people here are amazing, friendly, and most importantly they know where the good food is.

Last but not least, I hope the players would form a new friendship throughout the tournament and bring back good memories to your countries. I also hope the locals would be inspire through this tournament.

All the best and may the best team wins!

Thank you.