A Brief Overview of the Origins of Xiangqi and Its Development in Asia
Xiangqi, or Chinese Chess, is more than a game of strategy and intellect. With a long history rooted in Chinese culture, it has evolved and spread across Asia, becoming an important part of the region’s traditional board-game culture.
The Singapore Xiangqi General Association (SIXGA) is pleased to present a special talk:
“A Brief Overview of the Origins of Xiangqi and Its Development in Asia”
The talk will be delivered by Mr Lim Kwan How, Permanent Honorary President of the Singapore Xiangqi General Association, on 29 August 2026 (Saturday), from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM.
Mr Lin has been actively involved in the development and promotion of Xiangqi in Singapore. In this talk, he will share an overview of the origins and historical development of Xiangqi, as well as its spread across Asia and the development of the Xiangqi movement in the region.
The session will provide an opportunity for participants to learn more about:
The origins and historical development of Xiangqi
The spread of Xiangqi across Asia
The development of Xiangqi in Singapore
Xiangqi exchanges and activities across Asia
The role of Xiangqi in preserving and promoting traditional culture
Whether you are an experienced player, a Xiangqi enthusiast, or simply interested in the history and cultural development of the game, everyone is welcome to join this informative and engaging session.
Event Details
Date: 29 August 2026 (Saturday) Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM Venue: Singapore Xiangqi General Association Admission: Free
Come join us as we explore the history of Xiangqi and its journey across Asia, and discover how this traditional game continues to connect communities and cultures through generations.
Today, we had the pleasure of having Master Allen Choo share two of his memorable games, offering valuable insights into the strategies and thought processes behind them.
Master Choo is one of Singapore’s leading xiangqi players and has represented Singapore in international competitions. He is also a highly respected and well-known figure within the local xiangqi community.
The talk was very well received, with lively discussions and enthusiastic participation from the audience.
To conclude the session, our Honorary Life President, Mr Lim Kwan How, presented Master Choo with a specially prepared gift in recognition of his outstanding xiangqi skills, achievements, and contributions to the game.
A meaningful way to celebrate National Day through our shared passion for xiangqi! 🇸🇬
A Xiangqi Tournament Filled with Thrilling Comebacks and Unforgettable Moments!
Yesterday’s Chan Soo Sen Cup National Xiangqi Open delivered excitement from start to finish, with every round packed with drama that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
This year’s tournament was played using graphical Xiangqi chess sets, where pictorial symbols replaced the traditional Chinese character pieces. This unique format not only gave the tournament a distinctive identity but also made the pieces more easily recognizable to players from different linguistic backgrounds, further promoting the globalisation of Xiangqi.
It was especially encouraging to see a strong turnout of youth players this year, competing alongside seasoned veterans. Their enthusiasm, fighting spirit, and tremendous potential have injected fresh energy into Singapore’s Xiangqi community and give us great confidence in the future of the game.
One of the most memorable moments came in Round 6. In an intense time scramble, with only seconds remaining on the clock, Master Allen Choo held his nerve under immense pressure to defeat tournament favourite Master Li De Zhi, producing one of the biggest upsets of the event. The game was a brilliant display of composure, resilience, and decision-making under extreme pressure.
The excitement continued into the final round. Jovan Wang found himself in a difficult position but never gave up, patiently searching for his opportunity. When his opponent made a critical blunder, Wang seized the moment to complete a stunning comeback and secure a crucial victory. It was yet another reminder that in Xiangqi, the game is never over until the very last move.
What made the tournament even more remarkable was how incredibly close the competition was. Second and third place were separated by just one additional win with the black pieces. Such a razor-thin margin reflects the exceptionally high standard of play, where every game—and every single move—could make the difference in the final standings.
Congratulations to all the prize winners, and heartfelt thanks to every participant for contributing such exciting and memorable games. While victory is important, it was the fighting spirit, composure under pressure, and determination displayed by all the players that truly made this tournament special.
Finally, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Chan Soo Sen, the tournament’s Title Sponsor, and Singapore China Baijiu for their generous support and sponsorship. Their invaluable contributions made this event possible, providing players with a high-quality platform to compete while promoting the continued growth and development of Xiangqi in Singapore.
We were also honoured to have Dr. Kong Jing Wen, President of the Singapore Xiangqi General Association, grace the prize presentation ceremony. Joining him were Honorary Members Mr. Lim Kwan How, Mr. Lee Sit Seng, and Mr. Charles Oon, President of the Singapore China Baijiu. Mr. Chan Soo Sen also serves as an Advisor to the Singapore Xiangqi General Association, reflecting his longstanding commitment to the development of Xiangqi in Singapore.
A big thank you as well to all the players, arbiters, volunteers, staff, and supporters who made this tournament a success. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the next Chan Soo Sen Cup National Xiangqi Open for even more exciting Xiangqi battles!
Guest of Honour and Title Sponsor Mr. Chan Soo Sen addressing the audience
Top 8 Winners
Champion Master Allen Choo receives the championship trophy from Mr. Chan Soo Sen.1st Runner Up – Jovan Wong receives the runner-up trophy from Mr. Chan Soo Sen.Second Runner-up – Master Li De Zhi receives the third-place trophy from Mr. Chan Soo Sen.Fourth-place finisher –Yang Di Sheng receives the prize from Mr. Chan Soo Sen.5th Place – Tan Bo Er receives his prize from Mr Charles Oon.6th Place – Alvin Tan receives his prize from Mr Charles Oon.7th Place – Chow Kim Sun receives his prize from Mr Charles Oon.8th Place – Lin Ming Jie receives his prize from Mr Charles Oon.Top 8 Winners group photo with Guest of Honours
Special Prize Winners
Top U12 Player Bao Yifei receiving prize from Dr Kong Jin WenTop U16 Player and 5th Place Tan Bo Er receiving prize from Dr Kong Jin WenTop Senior player Chia Siang Koon receiving prize from Dr Kong Jin WenTop Female Participant Fiona Tan receiving prize from Dr Kong Jin Wen
The People Behind the Tournament
Past and Present Leadership – Dr Kong Jing Wen and Mr Lim Kwan HowOur Dedicated Arbiters and Staff
The annual Pesta Sukan Xiangqi Competition 2026, organised by Sport Singapore, concluded successfully over the weekend of 18–19 July 2026, bringing together players from across generations in one of Singapore’s premier community sporting festivals.
The two-day event featured competitions across Under-9, Under-12 and Under-16 categories on Saturday (18 July), followed by the Under-21, Open and Veteran categories on Sunday (19 July). From enthusiastic young beginners to seasoned masters, the tournament showcased not only exceptional playing strength but also the continued growth of Singapore’s Xiangqi community.
A Promising Future for Singapore Xiangqi
The first day of competition highlighted the tremendous progress made by Singapore’s young Xiangqi talents. While medals were awarded to the top performers, many of the tournament’s most memorable moments came from the resilience and composure displayed by the participants.
One of the most dramatic encounters unfolded in the Under-16 category, where the championship race remained undecided until the very end. Both players entered severe time pressure, with only their final minute remaining on the clock, eventually sharing the point after a fiercely contested draw.
Equally impressive was a remarkable Under-12 endgame, where a young player calmly converted a difficult single rook versus two advisors and two advanced pawns (单车对双士双过河卒) position into victory despite having less than one minute remaining. The game demonstrated not only technical skill but also exceptional decision-making under pressure.
During the prize presentation ceremony, Singapore Xiangqi National Team player GM Alvin Woo Tsung Han—a 12-time Singapore National Champion, 2023 SEA Games Gold Medallist, and 2023 World Xiangqi Championship Men’s Team Champion—presented the prizes to the winners. His presence served as an inspiration to the next generation, reminding young players that world-class excellence can indeed be nurtured here in Singapore.
Chairman Dr Kong Jing Wen shared that while artificial intelligence continues to transform many aspects of society, qualities such as analytical thinking, resilience, and sound decision-making under uncertainty will remain invaluable. Xiangqi, he noted, develops precisely these attributes, ensuring its continued relevance in nurturing future generations.
Chairman Dr Kong Jing Wen
He also paid tribute to the many parents who patiently accompanied and supported their children throughout the competition, recognising that every young player’s journey is made possible through the quiet sacrifices and unwavering encouragement of their families.
High-Level Battles Across the Senior Categories
Sunday’s competitions saw the Under-21, Open and Veteran categories take centre stage, with many of Singapore’s strongest players competing in fiercely contested rounds.
Reflecting on the two-day tournament, Chairman Dr Kong Jing Wen remarked that the overall standard of Xiangqi in Singapore has continued to improve significantly. The quality of play, fighting spirit and sportsmanship displayed across all categories were a testament to the dedication of players, coaches and the wider Xiangqi community.
In his address, he encouraged participants with a simple yet meaningful message:
“While we all strive to make the best move on the Xiangqi board, may we also strive to make the best moves in life.”
The Open category once again demonstrated the depth of Singapore’s elite players, with GM Alvin Woo Tsung Han successfully defending his Open championship title through another outstanding performance.
The Under-21 championship was claimed by Jovan Wong, whose consistent play throughout the tournament earned him the top honours among Singapore’s emerging young adults.
One of the most inspiring stories of the weekend came from the Veteran category. Mr Lim Kwan How, Immediate Past President and Permanent Honorary President of the Singapore Xiangqi General Association, entered the tournament as its oldest participant. Defying age, he produced a flawless seven wins from seven games to capture the Veteran championship. During the prize presentation ceremony, participants and officials also surprised him by singing a birthday song in celebration of his upcoming birthday, creating one of the weekend’s most heartwarming moments.
His remarkable achievement served as a powerful reminder that passion, discipline and the pursuit of excellence know no age limit.
Podium Finish
U9 Category From left to right: Silver medallist Glen Bao Yifei, GM Alvin Woo, Gold medallist Chen Pinxi, Dr Kong Jing Wen, and Bronze medallist Lin Ziwei.
U12 Category From left to right: Silver medallist Guo Heyang, GM Alvin Woo, Gold medallist Daniel Raphael Lau, Dr Kong Jing Wen, and Bronze medallist Brian Ng Yi Kai.
U16 Category From left to right: Silver medallist Wu Yihan Charles, GM Alvin Woo, Gold medallist Zhang Qishuo, Dr Kong Jing Wen, and Bronze medallist Chiang Yin HongU21 Category From left to right: Silver medallist Zelig Yoo, Gold medallist Jovan Wong, Bronze medallist Li Junkai and Dr Kong Jing WenOpen Category From left to right: Silver medallist Lee Kwei Mean, Gold medallist GMAlvin Woo, Bronze medallist Chiu Wei Lin and Dr Kong Jing WenVeteran Category From left to right: Silver medallist Lim Cheng Chwee, Gold medallist Lim Kwan How, Bronze medallist Chin Min Kwong and Dr Kong Jing Wen
A Celebration of the Xiangqi Community
Beyond the results, Pesta Sukan 2026 was a celebration of Singapore’s vibrant Xiangqi community. Players of all ages came together to compete, learn and forge friendships through the game they love.
The Singapore Xiangqi General Association extends its heartfelt appreciation to Sport Singapore for organising this year’s Pesta Sukan, as well as to all the players, arbiters, volunteers, coaches, parents and supporters whose dedication made the event a resounding success.
Team Nila working behind the scenes to make the event a success
With the standard of play continuing to rise across every age group, the future of Singapore Xiangqi looks brighter than ever. SIXGA looks forward to building on this momentum and continuing to develop players from grassroots to elite levels, inspiring more Singaporeans to discover and enjoy the rich tradition of Xiangqi.
Note: The venue is at Bishan Clubhouse, 3 Bishan St 14, Singapore 579780, not at Bishan CC.
The Singapore Xiangqi General Association and SportSG are reintroducing Xiangqi to the Pesta Sukan sporting festival to celebrate Singapore’s 61st National Day. This individual tournament is open to all Singapore citizens, PRs, and valid pass holders.
Event Details
Dates: 18 July 2026 (U9, U12, U16) and 19 July 2026 (U21, Open, Veteran).
Venue: Bishan Sports Hall.
Reporting Time: 9:00 AM.
Registration Deadline: 30 June 2026.
Tournament Format
System: Swiss System, 7 rounds (tentative).
Time Control: 15 minutes per player with a 5-second increment per move.
Rules: Governed by World Xiangqi Rules.
Competition Categories
Category
Age Requirement
U9
Born in 2017 or later
U12
Born 2014 – 2016
U16
Born 2010 – 2013
U21
Born 2005 – 2009
Open
No age restriction
Veteran
Born in 1966 or earlier
Key Regulations
Prizes: Cash prizes and medals will be awarded to the top winners in each category by SportSG and the Singapore Xiangqi General Association.
Attire: Players must dress neatly. Singlets and slippers are prohibited. Only players under 12 or those in school uniforms may wear shorts.
Electronic Devices: Mobile phones and electronic devices are strictly prohibited and must be switched off. Using a phone during a match results in an immediate loss. +1
Conduct: No food, drink, smoking, or post-game analysis is allowed within the competition area. +1
For registration, please visit the official SportSG website or click on the button below.
Grandmaster Wang Bin takes on 12 challengers in a Xiangqi simultaneous exhibition. Let the battle begin!Table 1: Fiona Tan Min FangTable 2: Dr Lim Chau SianTable 3: Allen Choo Yong KiatTable 4: Goh Test SoonTable 5: Zhang QishuoTable 6: Thong Weng SoonTable 7: Liu WeilieTable 8: Zhu YuduoTable 9:Wang ZiruiTable 10: Tan Tong HiangTable 11: Boo HantingTable 12:Lin Zicong王斌特级大师 1 对 12 车轮战 | GM Wang Bin Simultaneous Exhibition
SIXGA · 新加坡象棋总会
中国象棋特级大师王斌 1 对 12 车轮战
GM Wang Bin — 1 vs 12 Simultaneous Exhibition
日期 Date2026年7月25日（星期六） 25 July 2026 (Saturday)
时间 Time下午 4:00（新加坡时间） 4:00 PM (Singapore Time)
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On 27 June 2026, the Braddell Heights CSN Xiangqi Club successfully hosted the 3rd Braddell Heights Xiangqi Blitz Tournament 2026. The tournament received an overwhelming response, with registrations exceeding the venue’s capacity. Due to space constraints, several players were placed on a waiting list. A total of 60 participants eventually competed in the tournament, bringing together Xiangqi enthusiasts from all walks of life for a day of exciting competition and camaraderie.
The tournament was played over 9 Swiss rounds under blitz time controls. Throughout the day, players demonstrated quick thinking, tactical precision and fighting spirit, creating many thrilling encounters across the playing hall.
After nine hard-fought rounds, the final standings were:
🥇 Champion: Lim Chau Sian 🥈 Runner-up: Choo Yong Kiat Allen 🥉 2nd Runner-up: Tai Boon Xiang
Champion: Dr Lim Chau Sian Prize presentation by Mr Louis SiaRunner-up: Choo Yong Kiat Allen Prize presentation by Mr Louis Sia 2nd Runner-up: Tai Boon Xiang Prize presentation by Mr Louis Sia
Congratulations to all prize winners, and our sincere appreciation goes to every participant for contributing to another successful edition of the tournament.
Now into its third year, the Braddell Heights Xiangqi Blitz Tournament has grown into a regular community event that brings together experienced players, young talents and Xiangqi enthusiasts in a friendly yet competitive environment.
The organising committee would like to thank all volunteers, officials, community partners and participants for their invaluable support. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the 4th Braddell Heights Xiangqi Blitz Tournament next year.
The overwhelming response reflects the growing enthusiasm for Xiangqi within the community. The organising committee will explore opportunities to expand future editions so that even more players can take part in the years to come.
Registration Open: 6th Chan Soo Sen Cup Graphic Xiangqi Tournament
The Singapore Xiangqi General Association (SIXGA) invites all Xiangqi enthusiasts to participate in the 6th Chan Soo Sen Cup Graphic Xiangqi Tournament, to be held on Saturday, 1 August 2026.
The tournament will be played over 7 Swiss rounds with a 15-minute time control plus a 5-second increment per move. Graphic Xiangqi Sets will be used throughout the tournament, making it easy for players of all language backgrounds to enjoy the game and experience this unique way of playing Xiangqi.
Tournament Summary
Date: Saturday, 1 August 2026
Time: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (Registration by 8:30 am)
Venue: Singapore Xiangqi General Association, 51 Bishan Street 13, #01-01, Singapore 579799
Capacity: Limited to 50 participants (first come, first served)
Registration closes: Sunday, 26 July 2026, 5:00 pm
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top eight finishers, with additional special prizes for the top-performing Senior, Ladies, Under-16, Under-12, and Non-Chinese/Vietnamese participants.
