Wong (eighth right, back row) poses for a photo with the organisers and participants of the 1st Malaysia Lions International English Chess East Malaysia Zone Championship.
KUCHING: United People’s Party (UPP) and Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) are currently in the process of discussing the reunification of both parties at the top level.
UPP president Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh said the party left it to Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg to decide on the matter.
“The proposal to reunite with SUPP we leave it to the Chief Minister, the discussion is ongoing,” he said when met at the closing of the inaugural 1st Malaysia Lions International English Chess East Malaysia Zone Championship held at Vivacity Megamall here yesterday.
Asked on when the talks would be finalised, he said no deadline had been set but hoped for a positive outcome.
Earlier, Wong who is also Minister of International Trade and E-Commerce and Second Minister of Finance, expressed his gratitude for the hosting of the championship as it allowed the disabled to take part and showcase their skills in English Chess.
“I saw the participants, some can’t see, yet they are passionate in the game. This shows their great spirit despite having disabilities.”
He also said this showed their eagerness to live their life to the fullest and passion in the game.
The championship organised by Region 1 Lions Clubs, District 308-A2 was participated by 27 people.
The sole Sabahan participant, Ardian Syah Muming, emerged champion while second and third places went to Termizi Yusuf and Ata Nyuga respectively.
Consolation prizes went to Thoo Siaw Lan, Maoh Janting, Untam Buah, Arifin Saini, Mohd Zahier Mohd Rasdi, Isak Ngau and Agsempher Manyud.
All 10 would be representing East Malaysia in the finals of the championship which will be held in Kuala Lumpur on Mar 17-18.
At the event, Wong announced funding of RM5,000 to the organisers for the championship. Initially, only the top three would be competing in the finals, but with the funding, all 10 will be going to Kuala Lumpur.