Dr Sim: Significant milestone as Sarawak international bowling draws 663 entries

KUCHING: The 8th Sarawak International Open Tenpin Bowling Championships (SIOTBC) 2026 concluded here on Saturday (Sept 12), drawing 663 entries from Malaysia and seven other countries.

Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also the Public Health, Housing and Local Government minister, said the eighth edition marked a significant milestone for tenpin bowling in Sarawak.

He said the tournament, sanctioned by the International Bowling Federation, Asian Bowling Federation and Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress, carried the recognition and standards expected of an international sporting event.

The entries covered five divisions, namely the 3DU Division with 121 participants, Classified Division with 123, Open Division with 135, Under-21 Division with 103 and Challenge (Graded) Division with 69.

Bowlers from Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, India, Chinese Taipei, Vietnam and Brunei Darussalam competed alongside Malaysian participants.

“This is exactly what international sport should be about – bringing people together beyond borders through a shared passion,” Sim said.

He congratulated the Amateur Bowling (Tenpin) Association of Sarawak (ABAS) for its successful and consistent organisation of the championship.

Sim also commended ABAS for continuing to host the SABATI Cup, a fundraising team event whose proceeds this year went to the Kuching Autistic Association.

“When we use our passion for sport to help others, we make our victories even more meaningful,” he said.

He also congratulated all champions and podium finishers, and thanked visitors from outside Sarawak for taking the opportunity to experience Kuching’s food, culture and attractions during their stay.