22-07-2025
Trading Card Games Event II draws over 1,000
Published on: Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Published on: Tue, Jul 22, 2025 Text Size: Abqaree (seated third left) with Chang (middle) and Ericson (left) and players at The TCG Event II. Kota Kinabalu: The second edition of The TCG Event drew over 1,000 participants from across Sabah over the weekend, highlighting the growing popularity of Trading Card Games (TCG) as a healthy, strategic, and social activity among youth. Sabah Youth Council President Abqaree Fawwaz Abekan, who officiated the closing ceremony at 1Borneo mall on Sunday, said such events are an effective platform to encourage Gen Z and Gen Alpha to connect in real life. 'Young people today have fewer chances for real-world interaction. Events like these encourage them to come out, meet peers, and engage in healthy two-way socialisation,' he said, adding that these activities help nurture both strategic thinking and communication skills. Abqaree urged continued government support and proposed the creation of a structured ecosystem to further grow the TCG community, potentially to the international level. 'Our youth need space, opportunity and platforms. With guidance and support, I believe they can go far,' he added. Organising Chairperson Chang Chee Ken said participation had surged compared to the inaugural edition. 'Last year we had eight card games and five hobby shops. This year, 12 card games were showcased with six stores involved. We had over 1,000 attendees across two days,' he said. One of the featured exhibitors, Ericson Lotidis, owner of R916 Hobby & Foods at Level 1, Megalong Mall Penampang, said the event not only boosted TCG-related sales but also demonstrated strong interest among local youth. 'There's clearly growing potential, especially among teens who are already playing or keen to start. I believe TCG can really thrive going forward,' he said. Ericson's shop, a popular hangout spot for young TCG players offers a variety of games including Magic: The Gathering, Cookie Run: Braverse, and Lorcana. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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