Melaka: The 2026 National Petanque Championship organized by the National Cooperative Movement of Malaysia (ANGKASA) is emerging as a significant platform for fostering unity, friendship, and cooperative networks across the nation. The event, held at Dewan Puteri Qashrina Chalet in Melaka, was officiated by Datuk Tuminah Kadi @ Mohd Hashim, Deputy Member for Entrepreneur Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs in the Melaka State Executive Council.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tuminah emphasized the championship's role in promoting teamwork, discipline, adherence to rules, emotional control, and team spirit among participants. Representing Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf Yusoh, Tuminah highlighted that these values are crucial to the cooperative movement's success. She expressed her vision for the championship as a platform to enhance unity and friendship among cooperatives nationwide.

The event was graced by ANGKASA President Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Fattah Abdullah, Deputy President Associate Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Abdul Razak Shaik, and several other dignitaries including Melaka Education Department director Mahfudzzah Mohamed Noor, and ANGKASA Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Abdullah Jusoh. The presence of key figures underscored the championship's importance in strengthening cooperative ties.

Tuminah also noted the Melaka government's commitment to entrepreneurship and cooperative development as part of the economic ecosystem. The 2026 State Budget has allocated RM300,000 for micro and mosque parish cooperative clusters, reflecting the state's dedication to empowering cooperatives. The establishment of a One-Stop Entrepreneur Centre aims to bolster the entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing access to financing and training.

The championship not only serves as a competitive arena but also as a venue for participants to share experiences, test mental resilience, and enhance discipline. Abdul Fattah praised the ANGKASA Melaka Committee for its dedication to the championship, which attracted 240 players nationwide, including representatives from State ANGKASA Committees. The competition saw 64 teams, comprising 192 participants, compete in various categories.

Highlighting the event's significance, the ceremony included the signing of a commemorative plaque and the launch of the 2026 ANGKASA National Petanque Championship logo, marking a memorable occasion for the cooperative movement.