CM underscores S’wak’s vision in sports

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Abang Johari presents the trophy to former national and state sprinter Watson Nyambek on the behalf of the Sarawak team which was adjudged the best team for the march past during the opening ceremony. Also seen is Abdul Karim. — Photo by Mohd Rais Sanusi

KUCHING: Sarawak has been building many sports facilities that are of world standard as it is serious in achieving its vision to become a sports powerhouse in the country.

Such facilities are not only for the benefit of our local people but will also enable the state to host many regional and international sporting events, said Chief Minister Datuk Amar Johari Tun Openg.

He said because of the availability of many facilities of world standard, Sarawak was able to host several international events for the past few years.

“Last year, we became host for the 18th Malaysia Games or Sukma and the 18th Malaysian Paralimpiad Games which attracted more than 3,000 athletes from all over the country.

“We did very well as Sukma host and many people commended us for our success,” he said at the launching of the 31st Malaysian International Open Masters Athletics Championship held at Sarawak Stadium here yesterday.

Many more international events would be held here soon, he revealed, and added that Sarawak is also bidding for the 2019 Asian Masters Athletics Championship and the World Para Swimming Games.

Calling on the Malaysian Masters Athletics Association to consider having Kuching to become host for their future events, the chief minister assured that Sarawak is more than happy to offer sporting facilities that are available and, most importantly, strong support given by the Sarawak State Government.

“This is one of the important reasons why Sarawak State Government has always put a very strong emphasis on the promotion and development of sports among its people who are vital future assets of the state and country.

Whether we are young or mature adults, together we need to take up sports as part of a healthy lifestyle, and as tools of community building,” he added.

Also present was Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.