Kuching Waterfront to stage International X-Games next week

KUCHING (April 1): Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah is confident that this year’s DBKU International X-Games will be bigger and better, with expanded events and stronger international participation.

This year’s event, he said, is building on the success of previous editions.

“This is not the first time the event is being organised. It has been held twice before and we can see the development of this sport,” he told a press conference held at his ministry office at the Baitulmakmur II building on Tuesday.

The DBKU International X-Games 2026 will take place at the Kuching Waterfront from April 8 to 12 in collaboration with the Canroll Pro Urban Sports Festival.

The minister noted that interest in extreme sports such as BMX, skateboarding and rollerblading has been growing globally, including in Sarawak.

“For this year, we are bringing the festival to a higher level by not only having events along the waterfront, but also introducing water-based competitions such as jet ski racing,” he said.

The international event is expected to attract more than 200 athletes from Malaysia and abroad, making Kuching a key stage for high-adrenaline extreme sports action.

Competitions will be divided into two categories, namely junior (below 15 years old) and open with prize money offered for winners.

Among the featured competitions are aggressive rollerblading, BMX flatland, BMX stunt, skateboarding, jet ski racing, street basketball and pickleball which will be held at the waterfront to encourage wider participation.

The event also provides a competitive platform for local athletes to showcase their talents at the international level, while allowing them to gain exposure and exchange experiences with foreign participants.

“It will also attract enthusiasts of extreme sports to come to Kuching, including those from other parts of Sarawak such as Sibu, Bintulu and Miri,” Abdul Karim said.

He believes the programme would serve as a strategic medium to promote Sarawak as a leading extreme sports destination, while empowering youths to be more actively involved in healthy and competitive activities.

DBKU and the organisers were commended for bringing another youth-focused sporting event.

“At least there is an outlet for them (youths) to channel their youthful energy in a proper and organised environment, instead of spending time in unproductive activities,” he added.

Under the theme `Unleash the Action’, organisers said that the event reflects courage, creativity and high-level skills among extreme sports athletes, while promoting an active and dynamic lifestyle among youths.

In addition to competitions, workshops on skateboarding and rollerblading will also be held and are open to the public, particularly for young participants interested in learning the sports and understanding safety measures.

Also present at the press conference were Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) Datuk Bandar Hilmy Othman, Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts permanent secretary Morshidi Frederick and event organiser and Canard Media founder Nik Mohd Suhaily.