Kuala lumpur: The International Kempadang Ultralight Jigging Challenge (IKUJC) Vol. 5, organised by the Darul Makmur Recreational Fishing Association in collaboration with Tourism Pahang, has drawn 60 participants, including eight from Singapore and four from Japan.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tourism Pahang General Manager Nor Zahira Muhammad Azmi stated that the competition has the potential to make Pahang a top sports and recreational tourism destination and serve as a key platform to promote Pantai Kempadang internationally. The participation of anglers from Singapore and Japan demonstrates the event's capacity to attract international fishing enthusiasts, which positively impacts the local economy and tourism industry.

The statement highlighted that the IKUJC runs from 8 am to 4 pm at Pantai Kempadang, with competitors engaging in the increasingly popular ultralight jigging category. The competition features categories such as Heaviest Pelagic Fish, Heaviest Cobia, Longest Fish, Heaviest Scaled Fish, Best Captain, King of IKUJC, along with a lucky draw offering attractive prizes.

The organisers expressed hope that events like this will continue, further strengthening community-based tourism and recreational activities in Pahang. This aligns with efforts to enhance tourism promotions ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.