KUCHING: The opening of The Tapang Club is expected to become a new catalyst for the development of sports, tourism, and healthy lifestyle activities in Sarawak, while creating opportunities to nurture new sporting talent among local athletes.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting said the launch of Asia’s first integrated private club marks a significant milestone for Sarawak, particularly through the private sector’s efforts to develop world-class sports facilities.
He said the idea for The Tapang Club, which was first conceived about three years ago, has now become a reality through the commitment and vision of its management team.
“I would like to congratulate Raymond Tay (TNCL Holdings managing director), Darren Wee (The Tapang Club marketing director), and the entire team for making this remarkable project a success.
“This is something Sarawak can be proud of because we now have a facility like this in the Bau area.
“With a facility of this calibre, people will be willing to travel from Kuching and other areas to visit,” he said at a press conference after the launch of The Tapang Club on Sunday.
Ting said The Tapang Club’s location, just 30 to 45 minutes from Kuching, makes it a strategic destination for visitors seeking sports training, competitions or recreational activities.
He said the facility not only provides a venue for sports development but also promotes a healthy lifestyle through the integration of sports, nutrition, and wellness.
“I believe that in the coming years, we will see new champions emerge from here.
“With facilities of this standard, all the necessary elements are in place for the best possible sports development,” he said.
He also described The Tapang Club as an investment that will benefit the local community, particularly by creating economic opportunities and generating activities in the surrounding area.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said the establishment of the facility demonstrates how passion and dedication can turn an idea into a project that positively impacts the community.
He said The Tapang Club provides a new platform for athlete development and the organisation of high-level sporting events.
“Facilities like this can become a venue for producing new champions. It gives us another location to host tournaments such as badminton, pickleball, and many other sporting events,” he said.
According to Rentap, the courts, which feature international-standard playing surfaces, provide Sarawak with more options to host sporting competitions.
Beyond sports, he said The Tapang Club also creates entrepreneurial opportunities through community involvement in providing food services and other supporting activities.
“As more people come here, it will create employment opportunities and open doors for local entrepreneurs to participate,” he said.
Rentap added that The Tapang Club’s proximity to Kuching, combined with its comprehensive facilities, adds value to the development of sports, recreation, and healthy lifestyle activities in the area.
He expressed confidence that the project, currently in its first phase, will continue to grow through future development plans, further strengthening Sarawak’s position as a regional destination for sports and recreation.
