Malaysia Wins Goodwill Games
Eight years of bonding borne out of the annual Malaysia-Thailand Goodwill Games saw another successful round of games, hosted by Malaysia this time around.
With a congenial theme, “Endless Celebrations and Friendship”, the Malaysia-Thailand Goodwill Games 2015 was held in Ipoh from Thursday, August 13 to Saturday, August 15. It was a collaborative effort by two ministries – Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia and Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand.
Participants from both nations, numbering in excess of 300, partook in 13 games held at various locations within the city, namely Lost World of Tambun, Ampang Superbowl at Ipoh Parade and D.R. Seenivasagam Park.
Malaysia won 16 out of 22 sporting activities held and thus was adjudged the overall winner.
Among the team games played were golf, football, sepak takraw, tennis and badminton while the leisure games included treasure hunt, fruits-peeling and waiters race.
Besides providing an avenue for government and tourism officials from both countries to unwind on the courts and playing fields, the games is also aimed at boosting the tourism industry.
“The Goodwill Games has been planned to provide you the opportunity to see the various tourist attractions, as well to enjoy the sporting and recreational facilities available here,” said Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, Minister of Tourism and Culture when officiating at the event.
In his closing speech, Nazri remarked, “We welcomed 1.3 million Thai tourists last year. This makes Thailand the fifth most important tourist market.” He expressed his desire to achieve 2 million tourist arrivals from Thailand soon.
Nazri complimented the participants for their sportsmanship, teamwork and solidarity and hoped they had a joyous time in Ipoh.
Asyiqeen