13yo Chess Protégé from Klang Defeats Chess Grandmaster at Johor International Chess Open

Remember Genkeswaran Muniyan, who was featured in an award winning inspiration film about his life story on how he was a gangster who turned over a new leaf and eventually became a SEA Games chess bronze medalist?

Well, these days, he’s coaching the next generation of Malaysian chess champions, including his son, at his chess school, Chess Master Journey.

En route to continuing his father’s legacy, Genivan Genkeswaran, is making his own name in the chess leagues, triumphantly beating a Chess Grandmaster at just 13 years old.

The match took place last month at the 7th Johor International Chess Open 2022, held at Fairview International School Johor Bahru, with participants from over 15 countries.

A natural at chess

Genivan Genkeswaran was just 3 years old when his father won the Bronze Medal for Malaysia at the 2013 SEA Games.

Following that, at the age of 7, Genivan started learning chess at his father’s chess school, Chess Master Journey.

Picking up the sport with ease, Genivan’s passion for chess was more than just a hobby for the young boy, eventually winning home matches over his renowned father.

A rise in the ranks

In the tournament, Genivan was the youngest non-title contender to beat a Chess Grandmaster. His victory helped him climb the ranks from #56 to #47

“I just really love playing chess”, said the 13-year-old chess protégé from Klang, unfazed by his achievement as he truly enjoyed playing matches in this cognitively challenging sport.

When asked about his son’s recent victory, Genkeswaran commented, “My son is rising very quickly. He was recently even selected to be Malaysia’s official player for the Eastern Asia Youth Chess Championship 2022 U14 Open in Bangkok, Thailand“.

“With his growing passion for chess, I suggested he compete in the title players league instead of those amongst his age group or rank. I remember telling him that it wasn’t about winning but building a winner’s mindset.”

Regardless, Genkeswaran expressed that he’s “still shocked and thrilled that Genivan is already winning matches against those double his age, even winning against a Grandmaster”.

Congratulations on your big win Genivan! We’re looking forward to your success!

Also read: This Malaysian Documentary Won The Los Angeles Film Awards For Best Inspirational Film!