Dr Sim invites international event organisers to partner with Sarawak

KUCHING (Nov 4): Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has encouraged event organisers aiming to host international events to partner with Sarawak as it moves toward becoming a developed and globally recognised Malaysian state.

Confident in Sarawak’s progress, Dr Sim noted that the state is far more advanced today compared to a decade ago in 2014 and is steadily advancing on its nation-building journey.

“With Sarawak’s natural resources beyond just oil and gas—such as water and other resources for electricity generation—we’re set to drive sectors like big data and AI (artificial intelligence) that rely heavily on power.

“Sarawak has what it takes to lead in these areas,” he said during the closing ceremony of the Second Borneo Open International Dance Sport Convention and Championship Competition (BOIDC) here last night.

Dr Sim emphasised that the Sarawak government is actively supporting initiatives to raise the profile of sports and cultural achievements within the state, in addition to focusing on sustainable development.

He said the BOIDC serves as proof of Sarawak’s potential to cultivate talent and grow a world-class sport and performing arts industry.

“I would like to thank the Kuching Performing Arts Association (KPAA) and Tyng Dance Academy for their invaluable contributions to Sarawak’s development

“Community support also remains essential to furthering the state’s growth across all sectors,” he said.

Dr Sim also praised the BOIDC organisers for their contributions to Sarawak’s tourism and economy, which help solidify the state’s standing as a sought-after international sports and performing arts destination.

According to him, events like the BOIDC do more than showcase talent; they foster sportsmanship, create bonds of friendship, and contribute to Sarawak’s larger development goals.

“BOIDC has, for the first time, achieved international recognition and is now prepared to host world-level championships under the World Dance Sports Federation (WDSF),” he said.

This year’s BOIDC drew competitors from 17 countries, including China, Singapore, France, Moldova, Korea, Taipei, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Macau, Mongolia, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, Spain, Kazakhstan, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia.

Also present at the event were BOIDC 2024 managing chairman Chan Tyng Tyng and co-managing chairman Chua Zjen Fong.