Kuala lumpur: The Malaysia Day celebrations were marked by a remarkable achievement as 676 individuals took part in a batu seremban game, setting a new Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) record for the largest participation in such an event. The record was officially recognized during the Malaysia Traditional Games Festival, held at the Malaysia Cultural Festival (FBM) 2026 at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa. The event was organized by the Selangor and Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur Zone of Polytechnics and Community Colleges (POLYCC) and Koperasi Hulu Selangor Bhd.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MBOR recognition was presented at the festival's closing ceremony. Norizam Sekak, director of the Polytechnic and Community College Education Department (JPPKK) Governance and Excellence Division, officiated the event, highlighting that traditional games can still captivate public interest when presented creatively and inclusively. He emphasized that the festival showcases the ability of POLYCC personnel to promote traditional heritage through innovation and technology.
Azman Arshad, chairman of the Selangor and Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur Zone POLYCC, expressed that this achievement is significant as it brings traditional games to a large audience, involving people from different backgrounds. He noted that this effort demonstrates the enduring appeal of traditional games and their ability to engage today's generation.
Nurazureen Jaafar, Hulu Selangor Community College director and programme director, explained that batu seremban was chosen to ensure the traditional game remains known and cherished among younger generations. She highlighted its inclusivity, stating that it can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age.
A participant, who identified himself as Daniel, 20, shared that participating in the event allowed him to learn more about a traditional game that is part of Malaysia's heritage. Daniel, a Kuala Langat Community College student, appreciated the opportunity to bond with others, noting that the game facilitates new friendships and strengthens social ties.
The Malaysia Traditional Games Festival, which ran from September 11 to 16 in conjunction with FBM 2026, featured a variety of activities that spotlighted the country's traditional games and heritage. Organised by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC), FBM 2026 aims to showcase Malaysia's cultural diversity to tourists as part of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026-2027 (TMM 2026-2027) campaign.