MIRI: Sarawak will continue investing in junior golf development and international competitions, with the state government hoping today’s young golfers will become tomorrow’s champions on the world stage.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chew Yew, said the state government remains committed to supporting initiatives that nurture young golfers while strengthening Sarawak’s reputation as a premier golfing destination.
Speaking on behalf of Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts and Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, at the closing of the 23rd Sarawak Premier Cup Sarawak International Junior Golf Championship at Eastwood Valley Golf and Country Club on Thursday (July 16), Ting said the championship has become an important platform for developing future golfing talents.
“The Sarawak Government will continue to support events like this. Our Premier’s Cup will return for its 24th edition next year and our ministry will continue to give its full backing.
“We hope to see more champions emerge from Sarawak, Malaysia and around the world. Perhaps one day, some of you will compete on the world stage and look back to say your journey started with the Sarawak Premier Cup,” he said.
Although persistent rain disrupted the final day’s play, Ting said the tournament still provided valuable exposure through two competitive rounds while allowing participants to forge friendships with golfers from different countries.
He said golf teaches more than technical skills, instilling discipline, perseverance, honesty and integrity.
“In golf, you keep your own score. That teaches honesty and integrity. These are important values that will stay with you, not only in golf but also in your future careers,” he said.
Ting also encouraged parents to continue supporting their children’s involvement in the sport, saying golf promotes healthy lifestyles, character development and lasting friendships.
He welcomed the overseas participants and invited them to return for next year’s 24th Sarawak Premier Cup, his annual Datuk Sebastian Ting Junior Golf Tournament in December, the Sarawak Amateur Open in October and the Malaysian Amateur Open in December.
Earlier, he thanked Eastwood Valley Golf and Country Club’s founder, Datuk Seri Law Kiu Kiong; tournament director, Ting Pang Kong; officials, referees, team managers, parents and players for contributing to the championship’s success despite the weather disruptions.
Also present were MGA’s President, Admiral (Rtd) Tan Sri Datuk Setia Mohd Anwar Mohd Nor; Vice-President Datuk Marina Gan; SGA’s President and organising chairman, Hoan Kee Hock; Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club’s President, Datuk Seri Law Kiu Kiong; and Sarawak Sports Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mua’zamir Jili.
