KUCHING: Brunei Darussalam and Singapore are among the 19 teams competing in the Invitational Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah Cup Tennis Championship.
The four-day championship beginning today (Nov 2) until Nov 5, will see over 200 tennis players in action at the Sarawak Lawn Tennis Association (SLTA) near Jalan Crookshank, here.
Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) chief executive officer (CEO) Awang Putrayusrie Awang Redzuan extended a warm welcome to all participating teams from Brunei, Singapore, West Malaysia, Sabah and various divisions across Sarawak, such as Limbang, Kota Samarahan and Serian.
“We welcome and thank you for your participation in the very first Sarawak Inter-State / Club / Team Invitational Tennis Championship. We are humbled by the overwhelming response amongst the tennis enthusiasts in this region.
“Today marks the beginning of an event that has been eagerly anticipated, an event that brings together talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, each with a shared passion for excellence in their respective sports,” he said.
Awang Putrayusrie, representing Deputy Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, officiated the opening ceremony of the tennis championship at SLTA today.
In his address, he encouraged the participants to compete with the highest spirit of fair play, respect for fellow competitors and appreciation for the opportunities the competition provides.
“Let the values of sportsmanship, discipline, and dedication guide you throughout this event. May the best athletes rise to the occasion, and may the bonds forged during this competition endure long after the final whistle is blown.
“We look forward to celebrating not only the champions but also the shared love for sports that unites us all.
“With that, I officially declare this competition open. Let the games begin,” he said.
Also present at the event was SLTA president Datuk Patrick Liew.
