KUCHING: Sarawak women’s rugby made a powerful statement on the national stage when its team finished third in the inaugural MSNS-KRS Women’s 15-a-side League 2025.
It is considered an historic achievement that reflects the team’s growth, grit and determination in their first-ever foray into the traditional format of the game.
Led by captain, Sharon Sim Sili, Sarawak triumphed 31-10 in the playoff match to secure third place, becoming the first team from the state to reach the podium in a national-level 15s competition for women.
Sarawak Rugby Union (SRU) honorary secretary, Rashid Salleh, hailed the result as a breakthrough moment, describing the journey as an “eye-opening experience” for everyone involved – players, coaches and support staff alike.
“Winning the playoff to secure third place in the league and knockout stage is a massive achievement for Sarawak women’s rugby, having had no previous experience playing in 15-a-side.
“This is the traditional format (of rugby). Kudos to everyone, from the management team to the players,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted today.
He highlighted the resilience and unity displayed by the squad throughout the league campaign, despite the steep learning curve of adapting to the more demanding 15s format.
Additionally, Rashid expressed optimism that Sarawak’s rising stars could soon don the national jersey, with Malaysia set to participate in the inaugural Southeast Asia Rugby Federation (SEARF) Women’s 15s Championship in February 2026.
The tournament will see Malaysia take on regional rivals, Singapore and the Philippines.
“With Malaysia taking part in the inaugural SEARF 15s next year, there’ll be more chances for Sarawak women to represent Malaysia in this format.
“So the future is very bright indeed,” he said.
For the record, on June 21, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony was held for the Southeast Asia Rugby Federation (SEARF) Women’s 15s Championship 2026.
The MoU involved Malaysia Rugby, represented by Shahizam Tukiran; Singapore Rugby, represented by Angelina Liu; and Ada Milby, President of Philippines Rugby.
The championship is set to take place in a round-robin format in February 2026, with Malaysia hosting the inaugural edition.
