Balancing sports, academics key to producing holistic students, says S’wak education director

KUCHING (Dec 27): Balancing academic excellence with sports participation is key to producing well-rounded students, said Sarawak Education Director Omar Mahli.

He stressed that sports should not be seen merely as competitive activities, but as an important platform for character-building, discipline, and the development of physical and mental well-being.

“The education system must nurture students who are not only academically capable but also disciplined, resilient and emotionally balanced.

“Sports and academics must move in tandem to achieve this,” he said during the launch of the Petronas Youth Football Champions League (PYFCL) 2025 here.

Omar noted that adolescence is a crucial stage for building strong life foundations, adding that an active and healthy lifestyle is no longer an option but a necessity for students.

“Through sports, students learn to manage emotions, build confidence, develop teamwork and cultivate self-discipline, qualities that will benefit them beyond the playing field,” he said.

He also reminded student-athletes that discipline is the key to success in sports, particularly in managing time between training and studies, maintaining proper conduct and continuing to persevere despite challenges.

“There is no successful athlete without discipline.

“You may be able to play, but without discipline, you will not go far,” he said.

Omar emphasised that academic pursuits should not be neglected, pointing out that education remains the foundation for broader future opportunities.

He noted that the recently concluded Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination 2025 served as a reminder for students to balance both academic and sporting commitments, urging younger students still in school to pursue their passion for sports while remaining focused on their studies.

The tournament, he said, reflects the state education’s aspiration, which seeks to produce students who are balanced and harmonious in terms of intellect, emotion, spirituality and physical fitness.

Omar added that the Petronas Youth Football Champions League 2025 serves as a key grassroots platform for youth football development in Sarawak, bringing together about 500 students and team officials from 20 teams competing in the Under-14 and Under-16 categories.

The seven-day tournament, beginning on Sunday, will be held at Stadium Sarawak and Stadium Negeri, providing young players with exposure to competitive football while utilising the state’s best available sporting facilities.

He also encouraged players to uphold high standards of sportsmanship, saying winning should not come at the expense of values.

“Victory is more meaningful when achieved in the right way, while defeat becomes a valuable lesson when accepted with professionalism and a big heart,” he said, adding that players should respect teammates and opponents alike.

Omar also expressed appreciation to Petronas for its collaboration with the education sector, saying corporate support plays a crucial role in creating structured and sustainable youth development pathways.

“Such partnerships help schools and the State Education Department identify and nurture students with strong potential in sports, particularly football,” he added.