KUCHING: Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah believes women’s football in Sarawak can grow just like women’s rugby – with time, support, and steady development.
Abdul Karim drew parallels to the rise of women’s rugby in Sarawak, which recently achieved third place in the inaugural MSNS-KRS Women’s 15-a-side League 2025.
“Last time, we didn’t see women playing rugby – but look at them now. I have to acknowledge, our women’s rugby is better than the men’s now,” said Abdul Karim.
He made these remarks during a press conference for the PETRONAS Youth Football Closed Tournament 2025 at Baitulmakmur Building II today.
While acknowledging the current momentum and interest in women’s football, Abdul Karim emphasised that building participation among girls may take time – but it remains a worthwhile investment.
“Sometimes, of course, getting the girls to participate takes a while. But we have to be fair and give them the same opportunities,” he said.
Abdul Karim added that Sarawak remains committed to youth development across all sports – and women’s football, like rugby before it, has the potential to grow into a regional strength.
