KUCHING: Sarawak is strengthening its skateboarding scene through a structured coaching and judging course aimed at developing future talent.
The course was attended by around 11 participants, including representatives from Sabah and Brunei.
The initiative marks a shift towards a more standardised system to support grassroots development across the state.
Sarawak Skateboard Association (SKA) Deputy Chairman, Zainul Mutaqien Marzuki, said the programme is focused on building a clearer pathway for athletes.
“We want to produce not just athletes with skills, but also coaches who can guide them with proper direction.
“This will help ensure our athletes understand their pathway and are better prepared to compete at higher levels,” he told reporters after the certificate presentation for the state-level skateboarding coach and judge certification course at Pandalela Rinong Aquatic Centre today (Apr .
Sarawak already has athletes competing at national and international levels, including representatives from Bintulu.
However, Zainul said strengthening the coaching structure is key to developing more talent across divisions.
“We do have potential athletes in Sarawak, but what we need now is a proper system so coaches can guide them more effectively,” he added.
The programme also aims to address the shortage of qualified coaches in certain areas while opening opportunities for more individuals to be involved in development.
“This is the first structured coaching course of its kind in Malaysia, as previously coaching was more informal and not standardised,” he said.
The syllabus used is adapted from international standards under World Skate, ensuring consistency in coaching methods.
Zainul said the association plans to continue the programme with future batches to further strengthen the state’s skateboarding ecosystem.
