NEWS RELEASE (#2025-15)
Dragon Boating Shines at United Through Sports World Children’s Festival 2025
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — 22 November 2025. The spirit of teamwork and inclusion came alive at the United Through Sports (UTS) World Children’s Festival 2025 with a vibrant dragon boat demonstration that captured the imagination of youth athletes, teachers, and spectators alike.
At the heart of the dragon boat demonstration were the Young Leaders, whose energy and teamwork brought the sport to life. With the support of Belinda Chung, IDBF Chair of Marketing & Media, and UTS President Stephan Fox, the youth showcased dragon boating as a symbol of unity, inclusion, and courage.
“Sport is not only about competition; it is about belonging. It teaches us friendship, respect, and courage. Together, we can build a world founded on peace, understanding, and opportunity for all,” said Stephan Fox, celebrating the youth who took part in the demonstration.
The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), following recommendations from its Youth Commission, proudly selected Adhitya Thanasilan and Hannah Ng to represent youth dragon boaters at the festival. Ten UTS youth leaders and athletes, including para-athletes, participated in a land-based dragon boat technique session. They practiced strokes to the beat of the drum, emulating the rhythm and teamwork of paddling in a real boat. The demonstration featured a dragon head, tail, drum, and five rows of paired seats, creating a visually striking and interactive experience.
The success of the showcase was made possible through the collaboration of international and local leaders: Belinda Chung, IDBF Chair of Marketing & Media; Wendi Zhou, IDBF Chair of Youth Commission; Girlie Tan, President, Malaysian Dragon Boat Federation; and Adam Yap, Argo Naga Dragon Boat Team. Special thanks go to Girlie Tan and Adam Yap for their dedicated efforts in coordinating activities at the local level, ensuring smooth execution and strong community engagement.
Both Stephan Fox, President of AIMS, and Julia Govinden, CEO of UTS, praised the demonstration for its interactive nature and visual appeal. Local sports schools and educators expressed strong interest, underscoring the event’s impact and potential for future collaboration.
While dragon boating took the spotlight, the demonstration was part of the wider UTS World Children’s Festival, a global celebration of inclusion, equality, and unity. Each year, UTS brings together youth from diverse cultures and abilities through sport, art, and education. The festival amplifies young voices and reminds us that no matter who we are or where we come from, we are all united through sports.
The dragon boat demonstration proved that sport can be immersive, inclusive, and inspiring — a true reflection of the festival’s theme: One Spirit. One Heart. We Rise Together — United Through Sports.
About the IDBF
The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) is the global governing body for dragon boat racing. Founded in 1991, it oversees and promotes the sport of dragon boat paddling across the world. With a mission to foster unity, friendship, and fair competition, the IDBF organises multiple international world championships, sets rules and standards for dragon boat racing and equipment, and has a membership base of over 80 national federations.