“The vitality of xiangqi tournaments comes from the collective efforts of all sectors of society. We look forward to more companies like Singapore China Baijiu Pte Ltd joining in—deepening, expanding, and warming the transmission of traditional culture.”
— Mr. Zeng Shisheng, Former Political Office Holder of Singapore’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Trade and Industry,
Former President of the Singapore–China Jiangsu Industrial Park.
Introduction
Recently, the 2025 5th Lion City Moutai Cup Chu–Han Strategy Xiangqi Open, title-sponsored by Singapore China Baijiu Pte Ltd, concluded successfully at the Tong An Huiguan Building.
This year’s tournament coincided with Singapore’s 60th year of independence, and specially featured 60 competition seats, celebrating the nation through chess and conveying friendship through play. Top male and female players from Singapore and Malaysia gathered for the event, significantly enhancing both its prestige and competitive standard.
The tournament comprised nine rounds, using a rapid format of 10 minutes base time with a 5-second increment per move, creating a fast-paced and highly competitive atmosphere. After nine intense rounds, Malaysian Xiangqi Master Li Dezhi emerged as champion with his deep expertise and strategic brilliance.
Clash of the Best, Fierce Battles on the Board
In addition to Li Dezhi’s championship victory, local Singapore players also delivered outstanding performances:
Xu Zhenghao (Singapore Rating No. 3) — Fourth Place
Wu Zonghan (Singapore Rating No. 1) — Runner-up
(Former Southeast Asian Games Gold Medallist)
Liu Yihao (Singapore Rating No. 2) — Third Place
(Former Southeast Asian Games Silver Medallist)
Mr Hu Jiacai, Chairman of Tong An Huiguan, Singapore (far left),
Mr Lim Guan Hao, President of the Singapore Xiangqi Federation (second from left),
Champion Li Dezhi (centre),
Mr Zeng Shisheng (second from right)
Mr Hu Jiacai (far left),
Mr Lim Guan Hao (second from left),
Runner-up Wu Zonghan (centre),
Mr Zeng Shisheng (second from right)
Mr Hu Jiacai (far left),
Mr Lim Guan Hao (second from left),
Third place Liu Yihao (centre),
Mr Zeng Shisheng (second from right)
Other Top Eight Finishers:
8th place: Xu Daorong
5th place: Li Kuimian
6th place: Yao Shaoqiang (Skudai, Malaysia)
7th place: Li Jiangfa
back row: Mr Hu Jiacai (far left), Mr Lim Guan Hao (second from left),
Mr Zeng Shisheng (second from right), with all award-winning players
It is worth noting that Indian player Adithya Prasad also actively participated, demonstrating the wide influence and appeal of xiangqi culture among diverse ethnic groups.
A “Last-Stand Comeback” in the Decisive Round
The final round was full of twists and turns. Originally in the lead, Li Dezhi made a mistake in his match against Li Jiangfa and fell into a disadvantage. However, he remained calm under pressure and played steadily, eventually turning the situation around and winning the championship in dramatic fashion.
Although Wu Zonghan fought hard and defeated Lin Chaoxian, he was unable to catch up in points. Xu Zhenghao suffered a regrettable loss to Liu Yihao in their encounter.
Gathering Together, Sharing the Bond of Chess
The closing ceremony was attended by many distinguished guests, celebrating the xiangqi event together. Guests included:
Mr Zeng Shisheng, former Political Office Holder of Singapore;
Mr Lim Guan Hao, President of the Singapore Xiangqi Federation;
Mr Hu Jiacai, Chairman of Tong An Huiguan;
Mr Yun Weilong, Chairman of Singapore China Baijiu Pte Ltd;
as well as Honorary Presidents Leung Pei Ling, Chen Xun Guang, and Ng Teck Soon;
Vice President and Chief Arbiter Ou Mu Shun;
Vice President Dr Lin Chaoxian, among others.
Former President of the Singapore–China Jiangsu Industrial Park, Mr Zeng Shisheng, delivering his speech
Mr. Hu Jiacai (third from left),
Mr. Zeng Shisheng (fourth from left),
Mr. Yun Weilong, Chairman of Singapore China Baijiu Pte Ltd (fourth from right),
and Mr. Lim Guan Hao (third from right).
Chess as a Bridge, Culture as a Legacy
After the competition, guests and players gathered for a buffet dinner, exchanging insights on chess and strengthening friendships. Singapore China Baijiu Pte Ltd will continue to support xiangqi events and the preservation and innovation of local traditional culture.
May chess, like fine baijiu, distill wisdom;
May culture, like a game of chess, blossom with every move.
See you again next year!