CAWA Vice President Ian McAteer at the 4th Sunway Chess Championship

On the 18th of June CAWA Vice President Ian McAteer took part in the Individual Rapid event of the 4th Sunway Chess Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. While the less said about his chess the better (Rk.167/250) it is interesting to report back on the chess scene in KL. The tournament attracted 250 players from eight Federations. There were 36 female players, 84 U18, and 58 U12. There were only 8 Seniors (over 50) which shows that there is great interest in chess among the younger players in KL. More pleasingly, the organizing team were all young - maybe a few in their thirties, but most in their twenties - which bodes well for the future of tournaments in KL. If you are heading that way, check out the Chess Clicks website hosted by Malaysia's first female IA, Ellie Emira Syamimi which has details of upcoming tournaments, of which there seem to be many. On a special note, Ian also ran across Syakir Shazmeer, who many will remember from his time in Perth. It was great to see that he is doing well in KL and still playing chess at a high level. Report kindly provided by Ian.