BINTULU: The state government, through various ministries and agencies, always supports sports associations in their efforts to host world-class sporting events in Sarawak.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said it can spur the state’s tourism sector and contribute to the income of players in the hospitality, food, transportation, and related industries.
He asserted that Sarawak government, through Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP), is actively implementing various initiatives to attract tourists back to Sarawak, with sports seen as one of the strategies to achieve this.
As such, he said the organisation of championships like the Premier Sarawak Muaythai Cup 2023 is crucial as an exposure platform for muaythai athletes, especially those who have represented the Sarawak team.
“Everyone is aware that Sarawak will be hosting the Malaysia Games, or SUKMA 2024, where Muaythai will also be featured in Bintulu as the championship venue.
“Therefore, the organisation of this championship is seen as highly opportune for Sarawak’s athletes to test their skills against participants from both within and outside the country.
“At the same time, events like this also serve as the best platform to nurture new talents with the potential to become future athletes, as I can see that this sport is gaining popularity among people of various age groups,” he said.
He said this when officiating at Premier Sarawak Muaythai Cup 2023 at Naim Street Mall @ Paragon Bintulu on Saturday (Oct 28).
His text of speech was delivered by Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (Entrepreneur Development) Deputy Minister Dr Ripin Lamat.
On the same note, he commended the Sarawak Muaythai Association (PMNS) for successfully continuing the organisation of this championship since its introduction in 2013.
He stated that the unwavering commitment of the association, tirelessly implementing various efforts and activities, is praiseworthy for elevating the status of muaythai in Sarawak and aligning it with the champions elsewhere.
“Today, we can take pride because Sarawak’s name has found a place on the world muaythai sports map through the continuous organisation of world-class championships like this. Congratulations, I say,” he remarked.
The championship drew muaythai participants from across Malaysia as well as contestants from five foreign countries, namely Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Yemen, and Iran.
