SHANGLA: With strong participation from both male and female players, the first-ever chess championship of the Malakand division was held at Alpuri Jirga Hall on Thursday, marking a significant step towards promoting mind sports in the region.

The one-day tournament attracted around 110 players from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including a notable number of female participants alongside players from Shangla district. Contestants demonstrated impressive strategic and analytical skills, making the championship highly competitive.

In the open category, Salman Ali Khan secured first position, followed by Jamal Nasir as runner-up. Amin Khan claimed third position, while Musawar Kakar and Farmanullah Khan finished fourth and fifth respectively. Shaheer Nawab was declared the best player of the tournament.

In the women’s category, Shaista Bibi clinched the top position with Shabana securing second place. Nihal Hayat stood third, followed by Muniba fourth and Ruhma Khalid fifth.

The championship was organised under the supervision of the District Youth Office Shangla in collaboration with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chess Association and The Gift of Chess.

The deputy commissioner, Shangla, Muhammad Fawad Khan, was chief guest on the occasion.

Speakers at the closing ceremony highlighted the role of chess in developing discipline, strategic thinking, patience and decision-making skills among youth and termed such events a healthy and constructive activity.

At the conclusion of the event, cash prizes, shields, chess sets and certificates were distributed among the position holders, while organisers expressed their commitment to holding similar tournaments in the future.

Published in Dawn, January 9th, 2026