KUCHING: The launch of Asia’s first integrated private club, Tapang Club, is poised to enhance Sarawak’s sporting ecosystem and attract more visitors, reinforcing the state’s efforts to grow sports tourism.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the private members’ club represents a meaningful investment that contributes directly to the state’s long-term development.
“Activities such as the Tapang Club are more than places for recreation. They strengthen our sporting ecosystem, promote healthier lifestyles, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the growth of our tourism economy,” he said in his text speech.
Abdul Karim’s text speech was read by his deputy minister Datuk Sebastian Ting, who represented him during the soft launch of the Tapang Club, Bau, today (July 12).
As the club’s facilities continue to expand, he hopes it will attract visitors from across Malaysia and eventually neighbouring countries, boosting the local economy through spending on accommodation, dining, transport and other local businesses.
“Whether they come here for training camps, competitions, coaching programmes, or sports-related events, they become part of Sarawak’s tourism economy while experiencing the warmth of our Sarawak hospitality and the richness of our Sarawak culture,” he said.
Abdul Karim added that sustainable, experience-driven tourism capable of generating long-term economic value for local communities, while fostering partnerships that bring communities together to improve their quality of life, aligns with the type of tourism the state aims to develop.
“Equally commendable is the Tapang Club’s commitment towards Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and sustainable business practices, reflecting values that the Sarawak government continues to promote as we pursue balanced and responsible development.
“Although these may appear to be different initiatives, together they point towards the same mission: a Sarawak that is healthier, smarter, greener, and better prepared for the future,” he said.
