Pahang Ocean Paddling Festival boosts sports tourism

The Pahang International Ocean Paddling Festival 2024 has put the spotlight on Pahang as a growing hub for sports tourism, attracting participants and spectators from around the world.

Held at Cherating Beach, the three-day event concluded with international participation from eight countries, boosting Pahang’s appeal as a premier sports destination.

Global participation in the Ocean Paddling Festival

The Pahang International Ocean Paddling Festival saw competitors from Malaysia, Thailand, South Africa, the United States, Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, and Singapore.

The main event, a sea canoe race, drew athletes and enthusiasts, showcasing the region’s potential to host world-class sporting events.

Leong Yu Man, Chairperson of the State Committee for Unity, Tourism, and Culture, emphasized the importance of such events for the state’s tourism industry.

“By hosting the Pahang International Ocean Paddling Festival, we ensure that Pahang continues to grow as a primary tourist destination in Malaysia,” she said.

The success of the festival demonstrates Pahang’s ability to attract global attention through sports, with the event playing a pivotal role in enhancing the state’s profile on the international stage.

Expanding sports tourism through canoe polo

Beyond ocean paddling, Pahang is looking to position itself as a global destination for canoe polo.

Leong mentioned that leveraging the sport’s popularity across Asian countries presents a significant opportunity for the state.

“With the increasing interest in canoe polo, Pahang has the potential to become a major hub for international sports tourism, drawing both tourists and athletes,” she said.

Pahang’s collaboration with the Canoe Association of Malaysia has helped elevate the festival, now in its third edition, to an international level.

The event, which took place from Friday to Sunday, offered a variety of competitions, including the International Canoe Competition and the National Kayak Marathon.

Pushing the boundaries of sports tourism

The festival featured multiple categories, including International Canoe Ocean Racing for men and women, as well as National Kayak Marathons in both single-gender and mixed categories.

Substantial cash prizes were awarded to the winners, adding to the event’s prestige.

As Pahang continues to promote its natural beauty and sporting opportunities, Leong reiterated the importance of building partnerships to drive tourism growth.

“Collaborating with external agencies and organisations allows us to promote Pahang’s unique attractions to both local and international tourists,” she added.

The Pahang International Ocean Paddling Festival has set the stage for more sports tourism events, further cementing the state’s reputation as a leading destination for both adventure and athletic tourism.