SELANGOR: Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, was visibly moved as he paid tribute to Sarawak Amateur Boxing Association’s (SABA) President, Datuk Dr Rahman Lariwoo, who passed away this morning.
Rentap described Rahman as a passionate and dedicated figure who had made significant contributions to the development of boxing in Sarawak.
“He was someone who was truly passionate about boxing, and I have seen how his contributions, struggles and guidance over the years helped elevate Sarawak boxing to a higher level.
“Especially now, we have seen more international-level boxing events being brought to Sarawak,” he told reporters when met at the IDCC Ideal Convention Centre Shah Alam today.
Rentap said Sarawak could be proud of the progress made by its boxing fraternity, adding that Rahman’s passing was a major loss to both the state and the sport.
“We are proud of the achievements of boxing in Sarawak, and his passing is truly a great loss to Sarawak and the boxing fraternity.
“Not only as a friend, but as someone who was genuinely committed to advancing the sport of boxing, his contribution will be greatly missed,” he said.
He also highlighted Rahman’s role in guiding and supporting local boxers, noting that several fighters had grown and progressed through his encouragement over the years.
Despite the loss, Rentap hoped Rahman’s passing would not weaken the spirit of the Sarawak boxing fraternity, but instead inspire them to continue building on his contributions.
“We hope that we can accept his passing with strength and that it will not weaken the spirit of the Sarawak boxing family. As a form of tribute to him, we will continue to fight in his name,” he said.
Rentap also conveyed his condolences to Rahman’s family on behalf of himself and the ministry.
Recalling how he received the news, Rentap said he initially found it difficult to believe that Rahman had passed away.
“I was at the ‘pencak silat’ event earlier when I first heard the news, and initially, I found it hard to believe that it was true.
“But later, we received a message, including from his younger brother, Datuk Aidel Lariwoo, informing us of the sad news,” he said.
Rentap described Rahman’s passing as a significant loss to Sarawak boxing and expressed hope that the sport would continue to grow while carrying forward the legacy he had built over the years.
Datuk Dr Rahman Lariwoo passed away at the age of 67 at 12:29 pm today (Aug 15).
