SMK Datuk Patinggi Hj Abd Gapor enters Malaysia Book of Records for longest carrom tournament

KUCHING (Sept 28): SMK Datuk Patinggi Haji Abdul Gapor marked its Golden Jubilee celebration by getting into the Malaysia Book of Records when it successfully held the longest carrom tournament for 50 hours non-stop since Sept 25.

The recognition certificate presentation ceremony was held at 10am yesterday, immediately after the conclusion of the tournament.

The recognition has made the school’s 50th anniversary celebration more meaningful and special, the school said in a press statement.

Organised by the school’s Form Six Unit, the carrom tournament competitors comprised 20 teachers and 150 Form Six students.

Held at its Dewan Santapan (Banquet Hall) from Sept 25 to 27, the tournament was witnessed and approved by a representative of the Malaysia Book of Records, the school said.

“The tournament was successfully held for 50 hours non-stop. Running smoothly, it featured six categories, namely Men Single, Women Single, Mixed Double, Men Double, Women Double, Royal Rumble, and Teachers Open,” the statement added.

School teacher Fadzliyatun Fadzil informed that the event was not only a symbolic platform to mark their 50th anniversary celebration but also provided useful experience to all involved.

Form Six student Muhammad Alif Faqrul Arash Abdul Rahim was delighted when given the chance to compete and assist his school to achieve a record warranting an entry into the Malaysia Book of Records.

His enthusiasm and the school’s success in creating the record were also shared by other students.

Aisyah Safri, for instance, who was tasked to become a jury member throughout the event, said she had gained new experience from playing such role despite the long hours and getting herself exhausted in the end.

Classmate Loisly Bryan Rima said she was a first timer at carrom but enjoyed her time competing.

She said she would definitely take up the sport seriously the next time and endeavoured to buy a carrom board for practising.

Disciplinary teacher Chin Hock Chai said he was proud of the attitude of students involved in the programme.

They came from various racial or diverse backgrounds but were united in making sure the event was successful and also for showing good character, he said.

This was meaningful since people were still celebrating Malaysia Day, added Chin, who has 30 years of experience in teaching.

The school was founded in 1974.