KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is encouraging greater investment in sporting infrastructure, athlete development and the hosting of prestigious sporting events as part of its vision to position the state as a regional sports hub.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said such investments extend beyond organising major sporting events.
“It is about building an ecosystem where athletes can train, compete and excel, where sports related businesses can flourish, and where international visitors recognise Sarawak as a destination for sporting excellence,” he said in a text speech read by his deputy, Datuk Sebastian Ting, during the soft launch of The Tapang Club in Batu Kitang, Bau on Sunday (July 12).
He added that while Sarawak is preparing to host several events during next year’s SEA Games in Kuching, staging prestigious tournaments is only one part of building a successful sporting ecosystem.
“Champions are not created during tournaments, but are developed through years of disciplined training, quality coaching and access to world-class facilities.
“Which is why the state government welcomes private sector investment in high-quality sporting facilities such as The Tapang Club, as internationally built facilities complement public infrastructure and provide local athletes with greater opportunities to train and compete at the highest level without leaving Sarawak,” he said.
Abdul Karim added that the advanced facilities strengthen Sarawak’s ability to host regional championships, inter-club competitions, international training camps and sporting events throughout the year, generating a multiplier effect for the economy by increasing visitor arrivals.
“This is the true value of sports—it promotes healthy lifestyles, nurtures future champions, creates economic opportunities and strengthens Sarawak’s position as a leading sports and sports tourism destination in the region.
“Our aspiration is for Sarawak to become the destination of choice for athletes, sporting events, private investment, and visitors seeking both world-class sporting experiences and our unique culture and natural beauty,” he said.
