‘Sarawakku Sayang’ brings services, activities closer to Betong community

BETONG: Visitors were already making use of the services and activities at the Betong Sports Complex today, hours before the official opening of ‘Sarawakku Sayang 2026’ .

A steady flow of visitors could be seen entering the event area, while queues formed at several service and health screening counters.

Among the busier areas was the payment and service section, where visitors were able to attend to various matters involving service providers and agencies, including Affin Bank, the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) and Housing Development Corporation (HDC).

Visitors can also take part in the ‘e-Peraduan’, with prizes ranging from an ATV to a car up for grabs as part of the event’s activities.

The health screening area was also drawing visitors, with 58 people having tried the FIBOD assessment as of early afternoon.

Physiotherapist Muhammad Alzubair said the assessment included hand-grip strength, body composition, posture and balance tests.

Participants take part in a basket-weaving activity. – Photo: Einstein Unji

“The balance test checks whether you are balanced and which foot is dominant, which foot you use more often without noticing,” he said.

For families, the event also offered a chance to learn more about early intervention support for children with special needs through the One Stop Early Intervention Centre (OSEIC).

Dayang Erina said the centre provides support for children with special needs, and allows parents to seek information on available assistance.

“It’s an early intervention centre for children under six years old who have issues like speech delay, autism and Down syndrome,”she said.

The booth also has a play area and is open to parents seeking information about support for their children.

“For parents who want to ask questions, or for children who just want to play, it is open to everyone,” she added.

A balance assessment as part of the FIBOD screening at Sarawakku Sayang 2026. Muhammad Alzubair (right) explains the functions. – Photo: Einstein Unji

Dayang (fourth left) at the One Stop Early Intervention Centre (OSEIC) booth alongside children. – Photo: Einstein Unji

She said parents could also seek information on available therapy and support options when their children move beyond the centre’s age range.

Beyond the service counters and screening stations, visitors could also take part in community activities, including a basket-weaving session limited to 15 participants and guided by two instructors.

A slingshot activity also drew participants, with visitors taking turns testing their aim at the outdoor venue.

Those looking for something more physical and challenging could also try the artificial wall-climbing activity organised by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED).

Wall-climbing supervisor, Mustapa Salim, said the activity was open to everyone and free of charge, with sessions scheduled for this afternoon, tomorrow afternoon (Saturday) and Sunday morning.

The event also features food and sales booths, giving visitors another reason to spend time at the venue beyond attending to official matters.

Participants take aim during a slingshot activity. – Photo: Einstein Unji

Physically challenging activities can be spotted during the early day of ‘Sarawakku Sayang 2026’. – Photo: Einstein Unji