Malaysia has been granted the hosting rights for two major aquatic championships in 2026 — the Asian Water Polo Championship (Under 18) and the 48th SEA Age Group Aquatic Championships, further solidifying the country’s growing influence in regional and continental aquatic sports.

In a statement, Malaysia Aquatics (MAS) announced that the Asian Water Polo Championship (U18), scheduled for March 9-15, 2026 at the National Aquatic Centre in Bukit Jalil, will be the first time the nation hosts this event.

The championship will also serve as the official Asian qualification tournament for the World Aquatics Championships (Under 18), bringing together the continent’s top youth teams in a high-performance, Asia Aquatics-sanctioned competition.

“Hosting this event highlights Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to developing water polo and providing international exposure for young athletes across the continent,” the statement read.

MAS also revealed that the SEA Age Group Aquatic Championships in 2026 will feature four disciplines: swimming, water polo, diving, and artistic swimming.

“As a multi-discipline regional event, the SEA Age Group Championships play a crucial role in developing the next generation of aquatic athletes and strengthening collaboration among Southeast Asian nations,” the statement said.

According to MAS, hosting both championships reinforces Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening youth development pathways, enhancing competitive opportunities for athletes from Asia and Southeast Asia, and raising the country’s profile in the global aquatic community.

“Malaysia Aquatics will work closely with Asia Aquatics, SEA federations, and domestic partners to ensure the successful delivery of both events. Further details and schedules will be announced in due course,” the statement added. – BERNAMA