The coastal town of Sematan was once again in the spotlight as the MYSED Joran Sematan 2025 fishing tournament reeled in crowds and competitors from across southern Sarawak. Held from July 25 to 27 in conjunction with the Pesta Sematan, the event blended recreation, community spirit, and rural tourism into a weekend of vibrant activity.
This year’s tournament saw the participation of 70 anglers from Kuching, Lundu, and Sematan — marking a noticeable increase compared to previous editions. Organised biennially by the Sarawak Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED), the competition aims to encourage youth participation in outdoor activities while showcasing the tourism potential of rural areas like Sematan.
The highlight of the competition was the impressive double win by DSKY Anglers Team. Their representative, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khalid Yusuf, was crowned Overall Champion with a remarkable 12.8kg grouper catch. His prize haul included the RM3,000 grand cash reward and the title for heaviest grouper caught during the event.
The prize presentation ceremony was officiated by Datuk Seri Hajah Nancy Shukri, who praised both the participants and the strong community involvement that brought Pesta Sematan 2025 to life.
The success of DSKY Anglers Team represents more than just an individual achievement — it highlights the growing vibrancy and potential of rural Sarawak.
Tanjong Datu assemblyman Azizul Annuar Pehin Sri Adenan also expressed his gratitude to all involved in the smooth execution of the event. He emphasised the importance of such initiatives in fostering community ties and strengthening local cultural and economic identity.
Beyond angling, Pesta Sematan offered a wide range of activities, including exhibitions by government agencies and statutory bodies. Among the participants were the Malaysian Cocoa Board, Turtle Management Board, Sarawak Forestry Department, and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDN), which held a Jualan Rahmah fair, alongside Yayasan Sarawak.
These exhibitions aimed to raise awareness among rural communities about services and opportunities available through government initiatives — in line with the state’s mission to bridge the development and information gap between urban and rural areas.
Sematan, once a quiet seaside town, is quickly emerging as a hub for community engagement, eco-tourism, and rural development. With continued support from the government, local leaders, and the people themselves, Sematan is poised for a brighter future — not only as a tourist destination, but as a model of sustainable rural progress.
