KUCHING: The creation of a Youth and Sports Ministry – announced by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg in a minor Cabinet reshuffle on Thursday will enhance the development of youth and sports in the state. Youth and Sports Assistant Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan regarded the establishment of the separate ministry as a very good decision.
“Although the ministry is headed by the same minister (Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah), we welcome it,” he said to reporters after a press conference on the upcoming Sarawak International Open Ten Bowling Championship 2019 here yesterday.
Abdul Karim is also Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister. Previously, the ministry was known as the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports. Snowdan said that the ministry would focus more on activities for the youth and sports especially international sporting events.
“The ministry will have its own budget. This will simplify the planning process for the development of youth and sports.” Meanwhile, Batang Lupar Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Rohani Karim congratulated the Chief Minister and regarded the state Cabinet reshuffle as a good one.
“This shows how strong and professional the Sarawak Cabinet is. This will further hasten the state’s development by 2030,” she said. Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Jemut Masing meanwhile said the Cabinet reshuffle was the prerogative of the Chief Minister. “He decides. That is how democracy works and I wish to offer my congratulations to all those who got appointed.”
