The 2025 season of Poker Dream 19 Malaysia concluded in dramatic fashion at Resorts World Genting, where Asia’s top poker professionals and emerging talents clashed across 71 events. From October 23 to November 3, the series awarded a massive MYR 13.3 million (~$4.66 million) in total prize money, marking one of the most successful Poker Dream festivals to date. Singapore emerged as the biggest winner of the stop, with Chik Fatt “Carter” Chan lifting the coveted Main Event trophy, while Yujian Eugene Zhou sealed the Poker Dream Player of the Year (POY) title after a year of remarkable consistency.
Carter Chan Captures Main Event Glory for Singapore
For the third consecutive Poker Dream Main Event, the trophy traveled to Singapore. Following victories by Dingxiang Ong (PD17) and Kok Kong Liew (PD18), it was Carter Chan’s turn to etch his name into the Poker Dream record books.
The MYR 3,200 Main Event attracted an impressive 1,547 entries, generating a MYR 5,000,000 prize pool and surpassing all expectations. After days of grueling play and several swings at the final table, Chan outlasted Malaysia’s Vince Cheong Kim Fye in heads-up play to capture the title and MYR 589,000 (~$140,000).
The final table was stacked with regional stars, each fighting for a slice of the seven-figure payout. But Chan’s composure and timing set him apart. His victory came only days after a crushing bubble exit from the Super High Roller event, which, according to Chan, became a turning point in his mindset.
“After bubbling the Super High Roller, I was very emotional. My friends reminded me to stay calm, to focus, and to turn frustration into energy,” Chan shared in his winner’s interview. “Poker is about discipline and patience. Winning this trophy feels like redemption and growth.”
Main Event Final Table Results:
- Chik Fatt “Carter” Chan (Singapore) – MYR 589,000 (~$139,465)
- Vince Cheong Kim Fye (Malaysia) – MYR 550,000 (~$130,230)
- Vladimir Fedorov (Russia) – MYR 300,000 (~$71,035)
- Daniel Lim Hung Chun (Malaysia) – MYR 225,900 (~$53,490)
- Kok Wei Teoh (Malaysia) – MYR 172,400 (~$40,820)
- Soo Tjan Joshua Tan (Malaysia) – MYR 125,700 (~$29,765)
- Mingrui Cen (China) – MYR 94,300 (~$22,330)
- Bhavik Khatsuria (India) – MYR 67,200 (~$15,910)
- Chin Hei Chan (Hong Kong) – MYR 52,200 (~$12,360)
Chan’s Main Event triumph underscored Singapore’s growing influence in live poker across Asia. His success not only marked personal redemption but also added to the narrative of Singapore’s dominance in Asian poker tournaments, positioning the country as a consistent force on the Poker Dream circuit.
Eugene Zhou Claims the Dream Player of the Year Title
While the Main Event belonged to Chan, the Dream Player of the Year title came down to the wire between Singapore’s Yujian Eugene Zhou and Malaysia’s Vince Cheong Kim Fye. Zhou’s remarkable consistency throughout the season gave him just enough points to edge out his closest rivals and claim the prestigious honor.
Zhou’s performance across multiple stops showcased his adaptability and deep understanding of the modern tournament meta. He secured several top finishes across the 2025 Poker Dream calendar, combining sharp technical play with balanced risk management — the very qualities that define a professional on the rise.
“Consistency is harder than winning one big event,” Zhou commented after being announced as the POY winner. “The Player of the Year race pushes you to perform every single stop, even when you’re tired or running bad. This award means a lot — it’s proof of endurance and focus.”
As the 2025 Poker Dream Player of the Year, Zhou joins an elite list of champions who have dominated both live and online poker circuits across Asia. His victory symbolizes a new era for Singaporean poker, where players are not just chasing titles but sustaining excellence throughout an entire season.
A Record-Breaking Festival at Resorts World Genting
Poker Dream 19 Malaysia reaffirmed the brand’s growing reputation as one of Asia’s premier live poker destinations. With record-breaking fields and world-class organization, the series drew players from over 20 countries. The action wasn’t limited to the Main Event — several side tournaments, including high rollers and mystery bounty events, also witnessed intense battles and headline-making victories.
Resorts World Genting, with its blend of luxury and accessibility, has become a cornerstone of the Asian poker calendar. Its location, combined with Poker Dream’s professional tournament structure and media coverage, continues to attract both amateurs and seasoned professionals looking to make their mark on the international stage.
Singapore’s Rise in Asian Poker
The back-to-back triumphs of Singaporean players have sparked conversations across the Asian poker community. Once considered an underdog nation in live tournaments, Singapore is now producing technically advanced players capable of deep runs in major series like Poker Dream, APT, and WPT Asia. The success of players like Chan and Zhou highlights the country’s strong community-driven poker culture and disciplined approach to bankroll and mindset management.
As the 2025 season closes, all eyes are now on the upcoming 2026 Poker Dream calendar, where the competition is expected to intensify even further. With expanding prize pools and rising participation from neighboring regions, the Asian poker scene is primed for a new wave of international attention.
Conclusion
Poker Dream 19 Malaysia was more than just another stop — it was a statement of how far Asian poker has evolved. From the emotional redemption story of Carter Chan’s Main Event victory to Eugene Zhou’s Player of the Year consistency, the event captured the perfect mix of passion, resilience, and precision that defines modern poker.
Singapore’s dominance throughout the series underlined a growing regional shift in power dynamics, where emerging Asian nations continue to challenge traditional poker strongholds. With its ever-growing player base and global appeal, Poker Dream stands poised to lead the next chapter of international poker in Asia.
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