KUCHING: Kuching is set to host top junior tennis talents from 25 countries for the 2025 Asia/Oceania Pre-Qualifying Billie Jean King Cup Juniors and Davis Cup Juniors at the Sarawak Lawn Tennis Association (SLTA) Centre from March 2 to16.
The tournament will feature over 37 teams, including 14 girls’ teams and 23 boys’ teams, with a total of 148 participants, promising an exciting showcase of young tennis talent.
Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, expressed gratitude to the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for entrusting SLTA with the prestigious event.
“We are thrilled to welcome 25 countries with a total of 37 teams—comprising 14 girls’ teams and 23 boys’ teams.
“Each team consists of three players and one coach, meaning we will host 148 participants, excluding parents, trainers, physiotherapists, and ITF officials.
“Altogether, we anticipate more than 200 international visitors arriving in Kuching for this event,” he announced at a press conference at Bangunan Baitulmakmur II on Monday (Feb 24).
Participating nations include Bangladesh, Brunei, Guam, Kuwait, Lebanon, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Vietnam, Turkmenistan, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Pacific Oceania, Bhutan, and the Philippines.
Abdul Karim highlighted the significant economic and promotional impact the tournament will bring to Sarawak, reinforcing the state’s reputation as a sports tourism destination.
“With players, coaches, and supporters staying in our hotels, dining in local restaurants, and exploring our vibrant culture, this event contributes to Sarawak’s growing reputation as a sports tourism destination,” he said.
Additionally, he revealed that the ITF has extended financial support to SLTA, providing a grant of USD 1,600 per nation, amounting to approximately USD 59,200 (RM 260,000), to facilitate essential hospitality services.
“This grant will enable SLTA to offer essential hospitality services, including local transportation, meals, and accommodation, ensuring that all participating teams experience the warmth and generosity of Sarawak’s hospitality,” he added.
Also present at the press conference were SLTA president Datuk Patrick Liew and MYSED deputy permanent secretary, Dolhadi Mazuki.
