Association aims to produce world class chess player
KOTA KINABALU: Scientific research shows that the game of chess can help improve a child’s academic performance, said Sabah Chess Association (SCA) president Muammar Julkarnain.
“Chess is not only for recreational activity, but it can help improve a child’s academic performance, concentration, memory and analytical skills.
“A game of chess is also unique in a sense that it can make a person to be a better thinker and a problem-solver.
“It is imperative that chess should be introduced to children at an early age to captivate their inner talent,” he said at the closing ceremony of the Sabah chess competition between government sector and private sector at Oceanus Mall here on February 24.
Muammar said the competition was not to see who is better in the game of chess but to expose this beautiful game to the younger generation.
“It will also foster beautiful friendship, respect for their opponents and learn from their mistakes in a friendly environment,” he said.
Muammar said one of the goals and visions of SCA was to find and train youth who can be the next grand chess master.
“We have 30 chess coaches who are recognised internationally at our academy and our priority is to train the younger generation to be a world class chess player.
“As this game is played by many people from all ages, our priority right now is to encourage parents and teachers to expose the game of chess to their children and students,” he said.
A total of 210 participants from the government and private sectors took part in the friendly game of chess on Sunday, which was again won by the private sector .
There was no winner or loser as all participants walked away with a trophy and an experience of a life-time. The SCA Academy is currently located at Lot No. 15, 1st Floor, Block C, Plaza Kingfisher.