Kuala lumpur: The frozen stage is set for a spectacular showcase of grace, precision, and athleticism as Skate Asia 2026 returns to its 'Malaysian home' at Sunway Pyramid Ice, marking the 24th and largest edition in the tournament's 37-year history.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the 11-day event, running from August 6 to 16, has attracted 1,400 skaters from 38 ice rinks across the Asia-Pacific region for more than 4,000 programs. This further cements Malaysia's position as a premier hub for winter sports in the tropics.
The event coincides with the 30th anniversary of Sunway Pyramid Ice, a venue that has long served as a nurturing ground for athletes, including Olympic and SEA Games representatives. Harry Janto Leo, President of the Ice Skating Institute of Asia (ISIAsia), noted the competition's evolution into a major celebration of the sport, reflecting growth within the region.
Harry highlighted that Skate Asia has become a significant ISI competition, especially in Asia, and noted the substantial expansion over recent years. He mentioned that since 2023, there have been 4,400 events in Hong Kong, reinforcing the tournament's prominence. Sunway Pyramid Ice has hosted the tournament seven times, underscoring its world-class facilities.
The venue's strategic location, offering convenient access to accommodation and amenities, provides an advantage for international participants managing demanding competition schedules. This year's edition is further enhanced by the presence of Malaysian figure skating icon and 2025 SEA Games gold medallist, Fang Ze Zeng, participating as a coach.
Ze Zeng mentors 13 young skaters and expressed his amazement at the talent volume compared to previous years. He emphasized the advantage of hosting the championship on home soil, reducing financial barriers for local skaters and providing international exposure.
Having started his journey on this very rink, Ze Zeng shared that passion is key to becoming a great skater, allowing athletes to find peace on the ice. The competition continues to showcase talent across various categories with participants from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Macau, China, Vietnam, and the USA.