KUCHING: Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah wants participants of the inter-state foundation sports festival to make the most of their stay in Sarawak.
In particular he called on them to experience the harmony that exists among the state’s more than 31 races and bear witness to their bond of unity and respect which has made Sarawak unique.
Abdul Karim, who is Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister said it was a good opportunity for the participants of the 14th edition of the Malaysia State Foundation Inter-State Sports Festival (PESAYA) to get to know Sarawak more during their 10 days of competition here.
“Take your time to learn about Sarawak. It is not all about winning and standing at the podium. When we attend or participate in sports events, what is more important is to strengthen the relationship with one another through the competition,” he said when opening the event at Stadium Perpaduan on yesterday (Feb 10).
“We are one Malaysia and I hope we can achieve integration to strengthen the relationships of the people between states in the nation. And I believe through this competition, we will be able to achieve such a goal,” he said.
Abdul Karim, who is also Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Minister suggested the participants explore Sarawak.
“I hope participants do not just stay at the stadium area but explore what Sarawak has to offer.
“We have Malaysia’s largest museum (Borneo Cultures Museum), and Sarawak Cultural Village where participants can learn more about Sarawak’s culture.
“Make time and visit these places,” he said, adding that participants should also try the Kolo Mee and Sarawak Laksa here.
The competition scheduled for Feb 10 until Feb 19 has brought together participants from Sarawak, Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Sabah, Selangor, Terengganu, and Wilayah Persekutuan.
They will compete in Football, Badminton, Handball, Netball, Volleyball, Tenpin Bowling, Darts, E-Sports, Futsal, Golf, Carom, Petanque, Ping Pong, and Sepak Takraw.
