New cricket field launched in Petra Jaya

KUCHING: Continuous progress is being made by Sarawak in cricket with the launch of the first cricket field in Petra Jaya on Friday.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim said that cricket is on the rise in Sarawak and the new ground will further boost the sport’s popularity.

“Cricket is one of the sports that will be contested in the SUKMA, which will start in two weeks.

However, if we look at the situation before, there was no dedicated cricket ground in Sarawak. 

“Thankfully, the Sarawak government has provided a site, and the ground has been constructed.

However, this site still lacks other facilities such as changing rooms, toilets, and rest areas (and) we hope that these amenities will also be available at the cricket ground,” he said.

Abdul Karim was speaking to reporters after officiating at the Petra Jaya Cricket and Rugby Field at Petra Jaya Sports Complex on Friday.

With the cricket pitch being the first of its kind in Borneo, he highlighted that it serves as a historic moment for the sport.

“The Malaysian Cricket Association and the Sarawak Cricket Association are working towards hosting international cricket tournaments next year. 

To effectively host these events, it is essential to have not only the ground but also the necessary facilities, such as changing rooms and toilets,” he said.

He further explained that due to the rise in the sport’s popularity, the new ground could welcome the Women’s Under-19 World Cup cricket tournament next year which involves more than 20 countries.

“Cricket is one of the most popular sports globally based on viewership.

That’s why promoting cricket, especially in schools, is important. 

“Cricket is easier to learn compared to other sports and does not require a large space.

Unlike cycling, which needs a large area, or swimming, which requires a swimming pool, cricket only needs a field,” he said.

Abdul Karim also noted that cricket in Malaysia is ranked 24th in the world, highlighting the sport’s growing popularity.

Also present at the event were Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) chief executive officer Awang Putrayusrie Awang Reduan, Malaysian Cricket Association (MCA) president Mohammed Iqbal Ali Kassim Ali and Sarawak Cricket Association secretary Gordon Chung.