Telaga Air proposed as alternate venue for Sarawak’s major regatta events

KUCHING (March 25): Telaga Air has been proposed as a second venue for major regatta events in Sarawak, said Pantai Damai assemblyman Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi.

He said the proposal was discussed with State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who had attended the Regatta Telaga Air two years ago in conjunction with the annual Pesta Telaga Air.

Dr Abdul Rahman, who is also the State Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs), said the proposal has been deliberated and agreed upon, with Telaga Air identified as a suitable location for major regatta events.

He noted that one of the unique categories organised during the Regatta Telaga Air, organised in collaboration with the Padawan Municipal Council, is the “Endurance Regatta”.

“The event involves 30 paddlers rowing continuously over a distance of five kilometres,” he told reporters during his Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house at a hotel here.

He added that Sungai Telaga Air is straight, without major bends or junctions, making it a suitable and attractive course that had drawn the attention of the Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister.

“The regatta is proposed to be held on an alternating basis, with the Regatta Telaga Air taking place one year and another regatta the following year,” he said.

“This will not replace the existing Sarawak Regatta, which will continue to be held in Kuching, but will instead serve as an additional regatta event in the state,” he said.