KUCHING: Sarawak is strengthening its position as one of the country’s key archery development hubs through the consistent organisation of high-level competitions and structured grassroots athlete development.
Youth and Sports Deputy Minister Mordi Bimol said the 25th Sarawak Archery Open Championship 2026 reflected the continued commitment of various parties in strengthening the sport’s ecosystem in the state.
“This championship is in line with the National Sports Policy 2030, which emphasises grassroots talent development and the strengthening of a structured athlete development system from state to national level.
“This event also demonstrates that Sarawak’s archery development ecosystem is on a progressive and growing path,” he said.
He said this in a text speech read out by Sarawak Youth and Sports Department (JBS) director Lamat Nyalau at the closing and prize-giving ceremony held at the Petra Jaya Archery Range, here today (May 10).
He added that the championship is not merely an annual event, but an important platform to identify and develop young athletes for higher-level competition.
“This year’s championship brought together nearly 174 officers and athletes across various age categories, including Under-12, Under-15 and Open categories.
“The participation of teams from outside Sarawak such as Terengganu and Kuala Lumpur, as well as clubs from Miri and Sibu, also reflects the growing reputation of this championship at the national level,” he said.
He added that the government, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, will continue to support sports associations through various initiatives, including the Sports Matching Grant (GPS).
He stressed that sports development should not be measured by medal achievements alone, but as a long-term investment in building a disciplined, resilient and principled younger generation.
He also extended appreciation to the Sarawak Archery Association (PEMASA), Sarawak Sports Corporation, the Sarawak Education Department, as well as all technical officials, coaches and volunteers for ensuring the smooth running of the championship in accordance with World Archery standards.
