By Jacqueline David
KUCHING: Sarawak is hoping to attract an even bigger field of entries for the Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta next year.
A record of sorts was already set in this year’s edition which drew 2,066 paddlers in 61 teams from 21 countries across the globe.
“It is definitely a record which we are proud of,” declared ourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah at the closing of the event on Sunday.
He said his ministry has always been generous in supporting regional and international events held in the state.
“The Sarawak government is truly excited to see the overwhelming response from countries across the world this year,” he said, adding that his ministry has always been generous in supporting regional and international events held in the state.
“Events are important to increase local business, fill hotel capacities and to also enhance the image and visibility of the destination,” he said in his speech read by his deputy Datuk Snowdan Lawan, at the prize giving ceremony and celebration party of Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta 2024 here.
Abdul Karim, who is also Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister also thanked the Malaysian Dragon Boat Federation, technical crews and the local host for hosting the 10th Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta 2024.
The event saw a tough competition in the main category, with teams from Sabah as well as Hong Kong eventually winning the competition.
In the International Premier Open 20s category, victory belonged to the Jetama Entulon Family team from Tuaran, Sabah who staved off challenges from international competitors.
Meanwhile, the International Premier Mix 20s category was won by a team from the University of Hong Kong.
Meanwhile, Abdul Karim said, this prestigious event will also help to promote Kuching as a gateway to Sarawak.
“My humble understanding is that dragon boat racing has been a traditional Chinese paddled watercraft activity for over 2000 years and now it is a modern international sport.
“As you can see today, we are celebrating this Dragon Boat event not only with the Chinese but with all the nations around the world,” he said.
He said the Dragon Boat event has become one of the favourite annual Sarawak cultural festival events.
“We always promote Sarawak as a proud destination in terms of unique culture, adventure, nature, food and festivals (CANFF).
“The Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta is part of the bigger Kuching Waterfront Festival which comprises the Craft Bazaar, Sarawak Kitchen and the nightly Cultural Fiesta,” he said.
Also present at the event were the ministry’s deputy permanent secretary Desmond Douglas Jerukan, Malaysia Dragon Boat Federation, Girlie Tan and International Dragon Boat Federation vice president, Nigel Bedford.
