TANJUNG MANIS: The recent Shimano International Surfcasting Challenge Cup attracted a total of 1,125 anglers from all over Sarawak, Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Brunei Darussalam and Singapore.
Possibly the biggest beneficiary of the competition were the traders in Belawai as it was a rare opportunity to make more money.
Awangku Hashim Pengiran Julihi, 45, a participant from Brunei Darussalam, acknowledged that Belawai beach has its own charm, and the potential to be developed as a spot for recreational fishing, also known as sport fishing.
He said it was his passion for fishing and support from his friends that he travelled here to compete.
“Win or lose, it’s not important. I enjoy coming to Belawai…I enjoy the beach here. I hope the organisers will continue to improve the quality of future competitions.”
Urban Planning, Land and Environment Assistant Minister Datu Len Talif Salleh said organisers are constantly improving the quality of the competition based on the beach.
“The event and its success inspire me to increase the future of the programme to boost the tourism sector and empower socioeconomic activity for the locals.
“I see the people active in promoting their products and indirectly, they are boosting the local economy,” he said.
Meanwhile, the top prize of RM50,000 was won by policeman Mohd Rubaie Md Yusof.
Second place was Mattew Chen Kok Khium, 55, from Bintulu while Mohd Jamil Akbar Abu Bakar, 30, from Kuantan finished third.
Mattew and Mohd Jamil took home RM7,500 and RM3,000 respectively.
