KUALA LUMPUR — After a 16-year hiatus, Pahang is once again playing host to the 73rd Gurdwara Cup and Sikh Festival of Sports, which officially kicked off in Kuantan on Thursday.
The four-day event brings together Sikh athletes from across Malaysia and Singapore, with competition expected to be more intense this year following the inclusion of two new events — pool and darts.
Traditionally centred around hockey, football, netball, badminton and golf, the tournament now offers a broader scope for participation, with over 1,000 athletes and officials taking part.
Speaking to Scoop, Malaysia Singapore Sikh Sports Council (MSSSC) president Baljit Singh Randhay said the Gurdwara Cup continues to serve as a vital platform for the development of Sikh sporting talent.
“These games are more than just sport. They’re about honour, tradition, and building future champions,” he said when contacted.
“This year, we’ve expanded into new disciplines to give more youth the opportunity to compete and shine. Our hope is that the Gurdwara Cup continues to produce athletes who go on to represent Malaysia on the international stage.”
He also highlighted the Sikh community’s longstanding contribution to Malaysian sports.
“Sikhs have always punched above their weight — from Olympians to national team players. This tournament is where many of their journeys began,” he added.
The event was officially opened by the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who also met contingent leaders and presented awards during the opening ceremony.
Also in attendance were Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr Ramli Mohd Nor, and Olympic Council of Malaysia president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria.
Meanwhile, Pahang Sikh Cultural & Sports Association (PSCSA) president Daljit Singh said it was a proud moment for the state to host the games again after more than a decade.
“We’ve waited a long time to bring the Gurdwara Cup back to Pahang,” he said.
“Our committee has worked tirelessly to ensure everything runs smoothly, and we are honoured by the presence of His Majesty the Sultan.”
Daljit added that the tournament represents more than just medals and results.
“It’s a chance for our youth to shine, to forge friendships, and to embrace values such as teamwork, respect, and self-discipline,” he said.
Matches for this year’s Gurdwara Cup are being held across several venues in Kuantan, including Padang Sintetik MPK, Wisma Belia Hockey Stadium, SUKPA Complex, Dewan Persatuan Badminton Pahang, and the Royal Pahang Golf Club.
The tournament will conclude on June 1 with the finals and a prize presentation ceremony.
It is understood that the Sports Ministry has announced RM30,000 in funding for the event, with an additional RM50,000 contributed by Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr Ramli Mohd Nor.
With the exception of a brief pause during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Gurdwara Cup has been held annually since 1952, standing as one of the longest-running community sporting events in the country. — May 31, 2025
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