Sarawak’s deep badminton roots key to future growth, says Abd Karim

KUCHING (Jan 15): Badminton remains deeply embedded in Sarawak’s sporting culture and continues to be a key focus in the state’s long-term sports development agenda, said State Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

He said Sarawak has a long history of producing outstanding badminton talents who have made their mark at both state and national levels, and the sport remains the most popular among youngsters across the state.

“Badminton has a very special place in Sarawak. In almost every kampung, there is a badminton court in the dewan kampung.

“While these may not be high-performance courts, their presence reflects the strong grassroots interest and wide following for the sport,” he said at the partnership signing ceremony between Sarawak Badminton Association (SBA) and Yonex-Sunrise Sunrise Sports Sdn Bhd at a local hotel today.

Also State Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Abdul Karim noted that although newer sports such as pickleball have gained some traction in recent years, badminton continues to dominate, especially among the younger generation.

This, he said, provides a solid foundation for structured talent development.

He commended the Sarawak Badminton Association (SBA) for taking proactive steps to elevate the sport, particularly through efforts to strengthen coaching standards, improve player development pathways and expand exposure opportunities.

The association’s collaboration with Yonex, a globally recognised badminton brand, was described as a positive move towards building a more professional and competitive environment.

“This partnership supports equipment provision, high-performance requirements and technical development, all of which are critical to success,” he said, expressing confidence that the new SBA leadership would be able to steer the association forward in a more stable and united manner.

The minister stressed the importance of organising more tournaments at district, divisional and state levels, noting that regular competition is essential for athletes to measure their progress and gain meaningful match experience.

“Talent development must start at the grassroots. Young players need opportunities to train, compete and gain exposure beyond Sarawak.

“Competing against stronger opponents will sharpen their skills and build confidence,” he said.

He cited national women’s singles No. 2 shuttler Wong Ling Ching, a Sarawakian who has achieved success at regional level, as proof of what local players can accomplish with proper support, training and exposure.

On the government’s role, Karim reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting badminton and other sports, in line with Sarawak’s ambition to become a national sporting powerhouse.

He highlighted investments in facilities, including the Sarawak Sports Complex and the development of mini sports complexes across the state.

He also called for stronger collaboration between sports associations, schools, clubs, government agencies and the private sector, stressing that coaches remain the backbone of any sporting ecosystem.

In closing, Abdul Karim congratulated SBA and Yonex Sunrise on their partnership, expressing hope that it would serve as a strong foundation for improved performances and greater opportunities for Sarawak’s badminton players and coaches in the years ahead.

Among those present were SBA president Datuk Wan Lizozman Wan Omar, Mysed permanent secretary Dzulkornain Masron and Yonez-Sunrise Sunrise Sports Sdn Bhd country manager Deepu Sree Omar.