KUCHING: Sarawak is set to expand its sporting infrastructure, particularly in squash, and renewed calls for corporate support to sustain momentum in athlete development and international hosting.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the state government remains committed to supporting both local and international sporting events, with plans to enlarge existing facilities to cater to more squash courts in preparation for future tournaments.
“We will make the facilities bigger to accommodate many more courts, enabling Sarawak to host larger squash events moving forward,” he said when officiating at the welcoming dinner of the 8th Borneo Junior Open 2025 at Riverside Majestic Hotel here last night (Jul 16).
Abdul Karim thanked long-time sponsor Cahya Mata (CMS), whose support has been instrumental since 2015.
He also floated the idea of renaming the tournament to Cahya Mata International Squash Tournament to reflect its growing stature and the company’s sustained commitment.
“We hope Cahya Mata will continue to be with us. Perhaps a name change would be fitting.
“And we also hope more corporations step forward to support not only squash, but other sports as well,” he said.
He emphasised that private sector involvement is crucial as Sarawak moves to expand its sporting reach, citing success stories in cycling, Muay Thai, wushu and taekwondo.
Looking ahead, Abdul Karim highlighted Sarawak’s co-hosting duties for the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, which will mark the first time part of the regional multi-sport event is held outside Kuala Lumpur.
“Malaysia will host the SEA Games in 2027, and part of it will take place here in Sarawak.
“I do hope squash will be one of the events hosted in Kuching,” he added.
In future, the state will also play host to the Borneo Games this September, welcoming participation from provinces and countries across the island, further solidifying Sarawak’s reputation as a sports destination.
“Sarawak is clearly building up well towards becoming a sporting hub, and with the right infrastructure and continued collaboration with corporate partners, we are on the right path,” he said.
The 8th Borneo Junior Open, which runs until Jul 20, has drawn 346 local junior players and 167 participants from 16 countries, including first-time entrants from Canada, New Zealand, Russia and Sri Lanka.
