SIBU: The Remote Control (RC) Powerboat Games are not merely a prestigious international competition, but also have the potential to serve as a platform for fostering young people’s interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
This supports Sarawak’s aspirations to develop an innovation- and technology-driven economy.
Machan assemblyman, Allan Siden Gramong, said the technology-based sport combines various elements of engineering, electronics, mechanics and technical skills, requiring precision, discipline and a high level of competitiveness from participants.
He said such values should be further nurtured, particularly among young people, to encourage them to explore STEM fields, which are among the key pillars of Sarawak’s future development.
“RC Powerboat is not just a hobby or recreational sport, but a medium that can uncover talent, creativity and innovation among young people. It can produce more highly skilled individuals in line with the needs of the future economy,” he said.
He stated this when officiating at the Sibu International RC Powerboat Race River Challenge 2026 at Pulau Li Hua Waterfront on Thursday (July 30).
Allan also praised the organisation of the tournament, now in its third edition, that demonstrated Sibu Division’s ability to host international class events through close cooperation among various parties.
He said the tournament not only brought together the RC Powerboat community from Malaysia and abroad in a spirit of healthy competition, but also benefited the local economy by attracting tourists, participants and supporters.
He opined such events had a positive impact on the hospitality, restaurant, transport, small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) and tourism sectors, in line with the event-based tourism approach being strengthened by the Sarawak Government.
Allan was confident that the uniqueness of the Rajang River and Pulau Li Hua Waterfront as competition venues could establish Sibu as a leading destination for RC Powerboat sports in Asia in the future.
In this regard, he hoped the tournament would continue to serve as a platform for strengthening friendships, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and technology, and creating networks of cooperation among the RC Powerboat community worldwide.
At the same time, Allan expressed his appreciation to the Sibu Division Tourism Task Force (DTTG Sibu), government agencies, local authorities, security forces, sponsors, volunteers and media partners for their commitment to making the tournament a success.
He also called on all participants to uphold sportsmanship, comply with all competition rules and prioritise safety throughout the tournament.
“Hopefully, this tournament will not only produce champions in the competition arena, but also nurture a generation that is disciplined, has integrity, and is creative and competitive for the progress of Sarawak,” he said.
A total of 687 boats across nine categories are competing in the race held from July 30 to August 2.
The participants came from Sarawak, Selangor, Johor, Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates.
