KUCHING: The Sarawak Lawn Tennis Association (SLTA) is placing renewed emphasis on its Junior Development Programme as it seeks to ensure the continued growth of tennis in Sarawak.
Its president, Datuk Patrick Liew, said developing young players is crucial to keeping the sport competitive in the state.
“We would like (SLTA) members, especially junior and take part in the Junior Development Programme. We see it as very important to develop the future. The ones standing in front of you, we are all ageing,” he said during SLTA’s Chinese New Year Courtside Dinner last night (Feb 28).
Liew thanked Datuk Henry Harry Jinep who was present at the event for generously allocating RM5,000 to support the association this year — a contribution he described as a meaningful boost for SLTA’s activities and grassroots programmes.
Henry, who is Deputy Minister of Transport and Tasik Biru assemblyman, has been a visible supporter of grassroots tennis and youth sports in the state.
“Thank you, Datuk Henry, our best supporter. Very good news — Datuk Henry has donated RM5,000. Thank you very much,” he added.
Liew, who has led the association for 32 years, acknowledged that nurturing a new generation of players requires patience and sustained commitment but said it is a necessary process.
He noted that while SLTA continues to organise local and international tournaments, building a strong grassroots foundation remains equally important.
“Year in, year out, I can see some potential among the younger generation coming through. I know it is not easy to take over and become a committed member, but it is a necessary process,” he said.
Liew also thanked members, supporters, and the media for their continued backing, noting that SLTA has never missed celebrating occasions like the New Year with its members and the media.
“We keep the tradition alive. Besides playing tennis and organising international tournaments, we also want to maintain close relationships with our members. Another objective is to foster good relationships among all members,” he said.
