SIBU: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg last Saturday paid a glowing tribute to top sports achievers who brought glory for the state and country.
He gave the top sports achievers a pat on the back in his text of speech read by his representative Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah at the Sarawak Sports Award 2017-2018 night held in Sibu on Saturday night.
On the event, Abang Johari said, “The Sarawak Sports Awards is an annual event awaited by sportsmen as it recognises and honours athletes, coaches and associations that have excelled. We are aware that such an event should be held to inspire the outstanding sportsmen in the various sports categories.
“We are determined to be a “Sports Powerhouse” in the country and together we can achieve it if we try harder, train harder and prepare harder.
“Our excellence in sports is our collective achievement because striving for success and excellence in sports is not static but a journey without boundaries.”
The chief minister added, “To be the best, we need to train and prepare ourselves to become the best even though stiff competition is expected among those vying for the same honours. This is why the state government through the Youth and Sports Ministry, has laid out well planned strategies and initiatives in order to identify, groom, train and nurture our local sports talents who have the potential to go very far even to the Olympics level.”
Abang Johari said the Sarawak government planned to create more world-class sports facilities and versatile recreational centres throughout the state.
