KUCHING: No concerns arise regarding hosting events such as the 10th Malaysia Independent Chinese Secondary Schools (MICSS) Ball Games, as Sarawak aims to become a strong contender in both sports and tourism in the country.
The championship is scheduled from August 27 to 31. About 1,700 students from 43 schools in Malaysia will be taking part in this five-day event.
The Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said that sports are beneficial for everyone. It helps build character and encourage a strong fighting spirit.
“I’m sure the athletes here have worked hard to be part of this championship. Engaging in sports can make you a better person,” he said this in his speech at the launch of the games at DeTAR Putra Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) on yesterday.
Since this is held in Sarawak for the first time, Abdul Karim hoped that the participants will get to enjoy delicious food, rich culture, and the harmony of Sarawak’s diverse community.
United Chinese School Committees’ Association of Malaysia chairman Tan Tai Kim thanked the government for providing RM200,000 for the championships. He hoped that all parties would continue to support the development of sports in Chinese independent schools.
Also present were Stampin MP Chong Chien Jen, Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang, and Federation of Chinese Associations of Sarawak president Datuk Richard Wee Liang Chuat.