Penang, Malaysia – The 23rd edition of the ASEAN+ Age Group Chess Championships will
be held from 1st to 11th July 2025 in Penang, Malaysia, bringing together chess players from
across South-East Asia and beyond. Organised by the Penang Chess Association on behalf of
the Malaysian Chess Federation, this edition is particularly significant as it coincides with
Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship under Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Established in 2000 in Vung Tau, Vietnam, the ASEAN+ Age Group Chess Championships
has grown from a modest regional gathering into a globally recognised platform for youth and
senior chess development. Initially known as the ASEAN Age Group Championships, the
event rebranded in 2007 to include players from dialogue partner countries such as Australia,
China, India, Japan, Russia, South Korea and the United States, reflecting its expanding
international appeal.
Since its inception, the tournament has served as a launchpad for emerging talents, many of
whom have gone on to achieve international titles and represent their countries at the highest
levels. With categories ranging from Under-6 to Seniors 65+, and competitions in Standard,
Rapid and Blitz formats, the event continues to champion inclusivity, growth and excellence
in chess.
The 2025 edition marks an exciting milestone: after several years of negotiation and advocacy,
the World Chess Federation (FIDE) has reinstated direct title awards for winners of eligible
categories.
For the first time ever, this includes players in the Seniors 50+ and Seniors 65+
divisions, recognising the vital role of older players in the chess ecosystem. These direct
titles—such as International Master (IM), Woman International Master (WIM), FIDE Master
(FM), and Candidate Master (CM)—have not been granted since 2019, making this a
breakthrough moment for the championship and the region.
A highlight of every edition is the Social Night, where participants take the stage in a
showcase of cultural performances that foster camaraderie and mutual respect beyond the
chessboard.
This vibrant tradition reflects the tournament’s spirit of unity and collaboration
across borders and generations.
This year's tournament is expected to draw participants from more than 20 federations.
It
follows a successful 2023 edition in Bangkok and the 2024 event in Vientiane, Laos. As
Penang welcomes players, coaches and families from across the region, the championship
stands as a beacon of sportsmanship, cultural exchange and shared aspiration.
“We are honoured to host the 23rd ASEAN+ Age Group Chess Championships in Penang,
especially in a year that is so important for Malaysia’s regional role,” said Madam See Swee
Sie, President of the Penang Chess Association. “We look forward to welcoming players old
and new, and to celebrating the enduring legacy of chess in ASEAN.”
About the Penang Chess Association
The Penang Chess Association (PCA), founded in 1972, is a pioneering force in Malaysian chess and a
founder member of the Malaysian Chess Federation. Celebrating its golden jubilee in 2022, PCA has a
rich 53-year history of organising international-level tournaments. Notable events include the first
Asian Team Chess Championship (1974), a Grandmaster (GM) tournament (1975), two Asian Cities
Team Chess Championships, an International Master (IM) tournament (2000), and the Eastern Asia
Youth Chess Championship (2024). The annual Penang Chess Festival remains a permanent fixture in
the regional chess calendar, attracting players from around the world.
