Kuching Sarawak must place greater emphasis on sports science to produce consistently competitive athletes.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said modern sports success depends on structured systems supported by science, rather than population size alone.
In his address at the Power Aquatics Swimming Club (PASC) 10th Anniversary Dinner at 56 Hotel on Saturday, he cited Australia as an example, noting that countries with smaller populations have been able to outperform larger nations through strong sports institutes and scientific support systems.
“Australia has a population of about 25 million, but they consistently perform at the highest international level, such as the Olympics. Malaysia has a larger population of 34 million, but we are still far behind,” he said.
Dr Sim, who is also Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, said the difference lies in how sports programmes are structured and supported, pointing to the role of physiotherapists, nutritionists, and sports scientists in athletes’ development.
“Swimming is, as I always say, a basic survival skill that everyone must have. Swimming is not just exercise. In Australia, every student learns to swim because school programmes require it,” he said.
He added that Sarawak must continue to adopt a more scientific approach to training as the state moves forward, especially in preparing athletes for national and regional competitions.
“It shows how they develop structured programmes, how the Australian Sports Institutes apply sports science involving physiotherapists, scientists, nutritionists, and more. That’s why it’s so important for Sarawak as it aims to move forward,” he added.
At the anniversary dinner, Amateur Swimming Association of Sarawak (ASAS) president Pemanca Tan Kun Gee announced earlier that incentives would be awarded to swimmers and polo players, which were presented by Dr Sim to PASC athletes for 2025.
Present at the event were Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) acting CEO Khairul Nizam Morshidi, and PASC adviser Voon Yong Hui.
