Founder, Aliwal Chess Club

Hirfan Romzi

Street smarts meet strategy boards. Hirfan Romzi is the founder of Aliwal Chess Club, a bold reimagination of what a chess space can be youthful, inclusive, and full of culture. Based in the heart of Kampong Gelam, the club blurs the lines between competitive play and creative community, making chess feel less like a quiet pastime and more like a vibrant social movement.

For Hirfan, chess isn’t just about the game, it’s about reclaiming space. By taking over void decks, skate spots, and urban corners with pop-up chess tables and open invites, Aliwal Chess Club brings people together across backgrounds, ages, and skill levels. It’s a celebration of thought, community, and coolness all on 64 squares.