Join us for an exclusive interview with young rowers from UNIMAS as they share what motivates them to join the Sarawak Regatta, the valuable lessons they’ve learned, and the challenges they face in balancing intense training with university life.
The spirit of the Sarawak Regatta: Teamwork, growth, and determination
The water is still, a mirrored surface in the afternoon light, but the rowers’ breaths are sharp and focused, piercing the warm, heavy air.
As oars dip and lift in unison, each stroke sends ripples across the Sarawak River — a river that has witnessed generations of races, tribal rites, and silent promises kept across its currents.
But today, the young hands gripping those oars belong to a new breed of rowers: university students from diverse backgrounds — some from buzzing cities with tech-driven lives, others from quiet rural villages steeped in tradition — all bringing dreams that straddle ancient legacies and modern ambitions.
For most of them, the Sarawak Regatta was once just a story — a grand, almost mythical tradition preserved by others. But now, the rhythm of their rowing has become their story.
They’re here not out of mere obligation or curiosity but out of a need to prove something to themselves, to feel connected to something bigger.
Sarawak Tribune spoke with three of these rowers — Amariana Assira Aging from Belaga, McDougallas Imanuel Petrus from Kanowit, and Mark Louis from Sabah — all from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) — to understand what draws them to the regatta, the lessons they’ve learned, and the challenges they face as they balance university life with intense training.
Just so you know, UNIMAS has secured the first and third places in the public and private institutions (IPTA/IPTS) category during the recently concluded Sarawak Regatta.
Here’s a glimpse into their stories:
What sparked your interest in the Sarawak Regatta?
Amariana: Growing up in a place where this event is held inspired me to experience it on a larger scale.
McDougallas: I found motivation in the competitive spirit and encouragement from university seniors.
Mark: I joined initially out of curiosity, just wanting to try it out.
How does your team stay motivated and focused?
Amariana: It’s about the power of mutual encouragement within the team, where every member supports and lifts each other up, especially during challenging training sessions.
McDougallas: Our shared pride in representing UNIMAS drives our determination and fuels our perseverance.
Mark: We challenge each other to push beyond our limits, knowing that every effort we put in brings us closer to our personal growth and success in the competition. Every training session, every stroke, is a step toward self-improvement, and in the end, that’s what prepares us for the race ahead.
What’s been the most surprising lesson you’ve learned from your teammates?
Amariana: Teamwork is the cornerstone of success, and being open to everyone’s input is essential. By listening to and valuing each other’s contributions, we build a stronger, more cohesive unit. This openness fosters trust, ensures better decision-making, and allows the team to adapt and grow together, ultimately leading to more effective collaboration and success in the race.
McDougallas: Learning the different paddling techniques for each category was an eye-opening experience. Each style has its own unique rhythm, strategy, and approach, which made me realise how much skill and precision are required for every race.
Mark: Discipline is absolutely essential, both in training and in life. It’s what keeps us committed when the going gets tough, ensuring that we stay focused on our goals even when distractions arise.
Balancing university life and regatta training must be challenging. How do you manage?
Amariana: I focus on time management, making it a priority to finish assignments early so that training never becomes a conflict.
McDougallas: Balancing studies and training isn’t easy, but it all comes down to time management. With my classes in the morning and training in the evening, I’ve found a rhythm that works. By night, I carve out an hour or two to tackle assignments or revisions — pacing myself based on how drained I feel. It’s a challenge, but when you’re passionate about both, you find a way to make it work.
Mark: I’m still figuring it out, honestly. But I’ve noticed that when we’re truly passionate about something, things just seem to fall into place. Somehow, it all comes together.
Have you ever wanted to quit? If so, what kept you going?
Amariana: There’s no doubt that exhaustion sometimes makes me want to quit, but a sense of responsibility to my team keeps me going.
McDougallas: What convinced me to stay was the spirit my teammates brought to every practice. Their energy kept me sharp, focused, and committed to the training.
Mark: Of course, there are moments when I feel like quitting. But to prove to myself that I can do this and that I can become better, I push through and keep going.
What would you like to see change or stay the same in the regatta for future generations?
Amariana: I hope for greater participation from diverse nations, which would showcase hidden talents and foster cultural exchange.
McDougallas: I’d like to see more young people, especially university students from across Sarawak, join the regatta. This way, we can uncover even more talent and bring fresh energy to the event.
Mark: I’d love to see more of the younger generation get involved in this event. More youth involvement means more fresh energy, new ideas, and a bright future for this cherished tradition.
If you could tell the next generation of rowers one thing about your experience, what would it be?
Amariana: The regatta has given me the thrill of firsthand experience, immersing me in the excitement and intensity of the event like never before. Beyond the adrenaline rush, it has also provided me with a unique opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, each with their own story, passion, and drive. It’s more than just a race; it’s an experience that has enriched my journey both on and off the water.
McDougallas: To me, dedication is everything. Staying committed to training, no matter how tough it gets, is key to progress. It’s about showing up consistently, even on days when motivation is low, and pushing through the discomfort.
Mark: If you think you can’t do it, take a moment to reconsider! Often, the limits we believe we have are simply obstacles in our minds. When you push past your doubts and stay focused on your goals, you’ll be surprised at what you can accomplish. The only true limits are the ones you place on yourself.
What has the regatta taught you that you didn’t expect to learn?
Amariana: Patience and teamwork are invaluable, and though they may seem like simple concepts, the lessons they teach have had a profound and lasting impact.
McDougallas: I truly value the support and sense of camaraderie within the regatta community. It’s remarkable how everyone, from seasoned rowers to newcomers, is eager to share their knowledge, skills, and tips.
Mark: Teamwork is everything. If even one person stops paddling or loses rhythm, the entire boat feels heavier. It’s all about syncing together to keep the momentum going.
If you had to sum up the spirit of the regatta in one word, what would it be?
Amariana: Fighters — it reflects the mental and physical toughness needed to push through exhaustion, overcome challenges, and keep going even when every stroke feels harder than the last. In the regatta, each rower becomes a fighter, not just battling the water but also testing their limits and striving for victory with unwavering perseverance.
McDougallas: Amazing perfectly sums up the spirit of the regatta because it captures the awe-inspiring blend of skill, dedication, and unity that defines the event. The sheer energy of the race, the determination of the rowers, and the camaraderie within each team create an atmosphere that leaves everyone in awe.
Mark: Teamwork — success depends on the team working together in perfect sync to ensure better outcomes. This spirit of collaboration extends beyond the race, fostering teamwork that translates into all aspects of life.
Through these conversations, it’s clear that the Sarawak Regatta is far more than a competition. It’s a journey of discovery, resilience, and unity for these young rowers as they navigate the waters of tradition, ambition, and self-discovery.
