The 1st Berjaya Global Chess Open 2026 opened at the Berjaya Waterfront Hotel in Johor Bahru, Malaysia — marking a landmark moment in the region's competitive chess calendar. The tournament runs across 9 rounds of standard chess, concluding on 13 September 2026.

Made possible through the generous partnership and support of the Berjaya Group, the event carries a prize fund of approximately USD 60,000 — the largest ever offered at a chess tournament in Malaysia. This milestone reflects the growing ambition to elevate competitive chess across Southeast Asia to international standards.

The tournament has attracted players from across the region and beyond, bringing together a diverse field of competitors — from seasoned veterans to talented young players — all vying for a share of the historic prize fund.