By Karen Bong
KUCHING, July 14: Some 500 veteran basketball players from across Southeast Asia are expected to converge in Kuching for the 35th ASEAN Veteran Basketball Tournament 2026, which will be held at the MBKS Sports Village from Aug 11 to 15.
Announcing the event during a press conference today, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the council is proud to support the prestigious tournament as the venue sponsor, with all matches taking place at the MBKS Sports Village.
Wee said the tournament has also been included as one of the official sporting events in the MBKS Kuching Festival calendar, adding a sporting dimension to the annual celebration that is known for showcasing Sarawak’s food, culture and community spirit.
“Besides celebrating our rich food, culture and community spirit, the festival also promotes healthy living and active lifestyles through sports,” he said.
The mayor congratulated the Hornbills Basketball Club for taking the initiative to organise the international tournament, describing its efforts in promoting basketball and fostering regional sporting ties as commendable.
“A total of 30 veteran teams from ASEAN countries, excluding Vietnam and Cambodia, are expected to participate in this year’s edition. Kuching will field six teams and this reflects the city’s strong basketball tradition and enthusiasm for the sport,” he said.
According to Wee, participating players will come from Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Myanmar and Malaysia, including teams from Kuala Lumpur, Kuching and Miri.
He noted that the ASEAN Veteran Basketball Tournament, held annually on a rotational basis by basketball associations and clubs within ASEAN member countries, serves as more than just a sporting competition.
“It is a platform that strengthens friendship, promotes sportsmanship, and fosters closer ties among the people of Southeast Asia through the universal language of sport,” he said.
Wee said hosting the tournament in Kuching is both an honour and an opportunity to showcase the city to visiting athletes, officials and supporters.
He expressed hope that participants would take the opportunity to experience Kuching’s sporting facilities, renowned hospitality, vibrant culture and internationally acclaimed cuisine during their stay.
The mayor also called on residents and basketball enthusiasts across Sarawak to support the event by attending the matches at the MBKS Sports Village.
“Let us give all participating teams a warm Sarawak welcome and create an exciting atmosphere throughout the five days of competition,” he said.
Wee added that the tournament would help strengthen friendship among ASEAN nations while inspiring younger generations to embrace basketball and adopt healthy, active lifestyles.
He also thanked the Hornbills Basketball Club, the organising committee, sponsors, volunteers and all parties involved in making the tournament possible.
“On behalf of MBKS, I wish all participating teams the very best and the 35th ASEAN Veteran Basketball Tournament every success,” he said.
Hornbills Basketball Club chairman Ivan Liew, its committee members as well as MBKS councillors were present at the press conference. — DayakDaily
