Sarawak to develop modern sports village

BY JAMES WONG & NURIN PATRA

KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is developing a sports village modelled after New Zealand’s, which will feature comprehensive facilities.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this is important in developing quality sports across Malaysia.

He also highlighted the importance of sports in instilling discipline, noting that disciplined youth would lead to improved performance and contribute to the state’s development.

“I believe the future of our sports is bright. We must unite to improve the quality of sports across Malaysia. That’s why, under my leadership, the government emphasises sports development.

“Besides building roads, ART (Autonomous Rapid Transit), and bridges, and boosting the economy, we also prioritise sports because it plays a crucial role in fostering discipline, which is vital for the state to progress.”

He said this during the handover ceremony of the state flag to the 21st Para Malaysia Games (Para Sukma) Sarawak contingent chief held at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here today (Sept 11).

Para athletes chanting Agi Idup Agi Ngelaban. Photo: Mohd Alif Noni

Abang Johari (centre) and other dignitaries waves Sarawak flag at the flag handing over ceremony. Photo: Mohd Alif Noni

On the Para Sukma, Abang Johari challenged the Para Sukma contingent to emulate Sarawak’s success at the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA), where the state emerged as overall champion.

“Our athletes have immense potential. Some have even trained abroad in countries like South Africa, China and Thailand.

“If Bonnie (Bonnie Bunyau Gustin, 2024 Paris Paralympics gold medallist) can do it, so can you.

“We congratulate Bonnie for bringing glory to Sarawak and Malaysia on the world stage. He broke records in Paris, showcasing the talent of Sarawak’s youth.”

Sarawak’s Para Sukma team is targeting 83 gold medals on home ground.

Abang Johari also extended his gratitude to 21st SUKMA CEO Datuk Hii Chang Kee and his team for upgrading sports facilities in Sri Aman, Sibu, Bintulu, and Miri.

He said these improvements had impressed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and led to discussions about Sarawak co-hosting the Southeast Asia (SEA) Games.

“We are the only state in Malaysia brave enough to co-host the SEA Games. Inshallah, the Minister of Youth and Sports has granted our wishes to hold the opening ceremony in Kuching,” he said.

Among those present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai, Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and Community Welfare Deputy Minister and Para Sukma Sarawak contingent chef de mission Mohammad Razi Sitam.