Champion: Leong Khai Shen

Daniel Yong Chen-I Memorial Malaysia Chess Challenge 

The Daniel Yong Chen-I Memorial Malaysia Chess Challenge concluded at KL Gateway Mall, drawing an impressive field of 137 participants from several countries for nine tension-filled rounds of Swiss-system action. This event was a highlight of the Malaysian Chess Festival, endorsed by MCF and expertly directed by IA Hamid Abd Hamid Bin Abd Majid and his team.

A Triumph for Malaysia: Leong Khai Shen Takes Gold

Traditionally foreigners dominate the Challengers section with champions coming from Indonesia and Philippines but this year is different! Malaysian talent Leong Khai Shen produced a stellar performance to clinch the championship with 8 points out of 9, outpacing a strong multinational field. His consistent play and unbeaten run sets him apart as a deserving champion.

Philippines Shines: Olaybal, Paglinawan & More

Philippines proved its chess depth once again:

• Christian Marcelo Olaybal claimed silver with 7.5 points, staying in the hunt till the very end.
• Zeus Alexis Paglinawan also scored 7.5 points to secure bronze, closely following his compatriot.
• The next Phl contingent included Adena, Lemmuel Jay and Ordizo, Ericka, each finishing on 7 points.

International Diversity in Top 10

Players from Indonesia, India, and Singapore fought fiercely, ensuring tight competition in the closing ranks of the top ten:

• Nelson Lau (INA) and Narzabal Joemel (PHI) both finished on 7 points.
• Satyam Prakash (IND) and Khoirullah Muhammad Azmi (INA) earned 6.5 points apiece.
• The tenth spot was claimed by Romero Gladimir Chester (PHI), also on 6.5 points.

India's Rising Stars

Young talent Satyam Prakash (IND), seeded 24th, cracked the top ten with fighting chess, while several Indian juniors and youth stars (notably Khandelwal Ananya and Aashrita Balaji Guttula) stood out for their attacking games in the competitive mid-table.

Malaysian Contenders and Special Prizes

Malaysia's depth was seen in the mid and lower tables, with notable performances like:

Ong, El Win (Best in FIDE 1800–1600)

Other stars winning category prizes include:

• Mok Jun Ji, Chen Yu Kun Austin, Shahar Nur Ain (FIDE 1800–1600)
• Mun Hoy Yan, Mohana Raj Dharvindra Raj, Leong Khai Ling (FIDE 1599–1400)
• Ang Jou Ching, Yong Yanhe Jasper, Hing Mok Wen, Hii Hiong Fu Oscar (Unrated).

Women Power: WFM Claros April Joy (PHI) and Others

WFM April Joy Claros (PHI) led the female contingent, finishing 13th with an impressive 6.5 points. Notable women contenders included Ordizo Kate Nicole and Rueda Joyce Rianna (PHI).

Festival Atmosphere and International Friendship

With players from Indonesia, India, Singapore, Philippines, Australia, Italy, and China, the event was a lively showcase of international chess friendship.

See full crosstable for all 137 players and TB scores.