SIBU: A group of enthusiastic youths were just trying their luck when they asked permission to use a piece of land in the booming township of Sibu Jaya for a camping site and to host a street soccer tournament.
To their surprise, the developer not only granted them free access but also helped them beautify and prepare the camping pitch with bonfire and makeshift sheds.
The youths were also granted access to the Sapphire East Business Precinct to hold the street soccer event.
According to Ivyana Niesha Nayan, 18, she decided to talk to the developer of Sibu Jaya after her friends asked her to organise a camp and street soccer event.
“We are just a bunch of adventurous outdoor enthusiasts. But with no financial support and experience, it is hard to organise many activities,” she said.
Instead of simply asking for money, Ivyana decided to ask for advice and assistance. “We do believe that if you work hard and you are sincere, most people would lend us a helping hand.”
And this turned out to be true, as the developer readily gave them permission and support.
“My friends and I are very excited and cannot wait for the event, which we have scheduled for Aug 31 and Sept 1, in conjunction with National Day,” she said.
The outgoing lass also extended an invitation to like-minded individuals to join them.
“Bring your own tents. Bring your own food and water. This will be a good opportunity for us to develop our independence and learn how to be responsible for ourselves,” she said, stressing that the camp was not a sponsored or organised venture.
“As this is done on an individual basis, it’s up to everyone to take care of themselves,” she said, while pointing out that there are still rules to be followed by everyone.
For the street soccer, it is open to those aged 18 and below.
Ivyana said her group of lasses, calling themselves the Jaya Angels, would be working together with a group of lads called Jaya Wings.
“The Jaya Angels and Jaya Wings will be the lead organisers for these two events and we hope that the business community in Sibu Jaya would help to chip in to ensure the success of both events.”
The timing of the two events is perfect as it will coincide with Sibu Jaya’s mega three-in-one fest with the Carnival Ambang Merdeka hosted by Embun Kiara running from Aug 22 to Sept 8.
The Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) will be hosting the Pesta Sibu Jaya on Aug 30 and 31, featuring a Strongman Contest, Tribal Games Blowpipe Contest, Sibu Jaya MotoDay Big Bikers Gathering and the Sibu Jaya Merdeka Night Ride cycling event.
SRDC will also be working with Embun Kiara in hosting the Ratu Sibu Jaya beauty pageant on Aug 30 and 31, with the finals slotted for Sept 8.
Sibu Jaya’s master developer Amcorp SibuJaya (formerly known as Distrepark Sdn Bhd) will be bringing back the Fun 5 Fiesta for the third year running by hosting the highly popular Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth fiesta on Aug 31 and Sept 1.
It looks like Sibu Jaya is certainly living up to its moniker as a fun and vibrant township.
