KUCHING: The Sarawak International Open Tenpin Bowling Championship has returned for its seventh edition, reaffirming its place as a key fixture in the state’s sporting calendar.
The tournament, organised by the Amateur Bowling Association of Sarawak (ABAS) with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak Sports Corporation, and Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurial Development, has attracted participants from 10 countries, including Singapore, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong, India, Bangladesh, Chinese Taipei, Brunei, the Philippines, and the United States, alongside competitors from nine Malaysian states.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who is also the Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, praised ABAS for its long-standing dedication to the sport, crediting its professional organisation for Sarawak’s track record in producing national and international bowling talents.
The event also features the SABATI Cup, introduced in recent years as a charity-driven competition.
“Those who participate in the SABATI Cup are not only competing but also contributing to a worthy cause,” said Abdul Karim, noting that last year’s edition benefitted the Cerebral Palsy Association.
The prize money for the Open Division champion stands at RM20,000, with awards extending to the 40th place, while the SABATI Cup champion will receive RM2,000.
Additionally, Abdul Karim said, beyond sport, the championship is expected to deliver significant economic benefits.
“When participants and supporters come here, they stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, visit attractions, and buy handicrafts.
“This supports our tourism and hospitality industries.”
ABAS president Sunny Si Poh Heng added that Sarawak’s bowling scene continues to grow, with a new bowling facility in Bintulu expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Sarawakian bowler Gillian Lim, recently crowned PWBA Rookie of the Year, the first Malaysian to earn the title, was also honoured during the event.
“We hope to see more Gillians coming out from our pool of young athletes,” Abdul Karim said.
