The 8th National Surfing Competition began on Friday at Laboni Point, bringing fresh energy to Bangladesh’s growing surfing scene and tourism sector.
State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque officially inaugurated the event at a colourful ceremony, highlighting the government’s commitment to diversifying sports beyond cricket and football.
Held in Cox's Bazar—home to the world’s longest natural sea beach—the competition drew over a hundred surfers, including teenagers and female participants, competing across three categories.
Presided over by Deputy Commissioner Abdul Mannan, the event was also attended by Lutfar Rahman Kajal, AKM Mujahid Uddin, senior officials of the Bangladesh Surfing Association, and representatives of sponsor organization.
In his speech, the minister said the government is working to develop all sports sectors, including surfing, and stressed the need to organise such competitions year-round. “Regular arrangement will help players gain experience and compete internationally,” he said.
He also announced that athletes performing well internationally may be brought under government financial support programmes in the future.
Participants highlighted both potential and challenges. A young surfer, Mahim, said better training and international-standard equipment are needed to compete globally. female surfer Sadia Akhter pointed to limited opportunities for women but expressed optimism with increased support.
Surfing in Bangladesh dates back to 1995 when local pioneer Zafar Alam introduced the sport in Cox’s Bazar. The first formal competition was held in 2005, and since then the sport has steadily grown.
Experts say the coastal conditions—calm seas in winter and higher waves in other seasons—make Cox’s Bazar ideal for both beginners and professional surfers.
Hundreds of tourists gathered at the beach to watch the event, reflecting the sport’s growing link with tourism. Organisers believe such arrangement will boost international recognition of Bangladesh’s surfing potential.
At the end of the Event, the state minister laid the foundation stone for a permanent facility of the Bangladesh Surfing Association, marking a significant step towards improving sports infrastructure in the sector.
