BINTULU: The Sarawak government is committed to host world-class sports events in Sarawak to drive its sport tourism sector.
Sarawak Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said sports tourism is crucial for Sarawak’s economy, benefiting the hospitality, food, and transport industries.
Abdul Karim who is also Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister said the Sarawak government aims to attract four million tourists in 2024, with RM3.07 billion in tourism receipts generated in the first quarter of this year.
“I believe this figure will increase in the second, third, and following quarters, as MTCP has numerous programmes planned until the year’s end.
“To drive the sports tourism sector, both ministries under my leadership, are collaborating to host various world-class sports championships in Sarawak, including muaythai, tennis, boxing, tenpin bowling, and more,” he said.
His speech was read by Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Deputy Minister Dr Ripin Lamat when officiating at the Sarawak Premier Cup Muaythai Championship 2024 at Naim Street Mall @ Paragon here on Saturday (May 25).
Abdul Karim added that these events provide valuable experience for Muaythai athletes ahead of the upcoming Malaysia Games (SUKMA).
“Competing in these events allows our athletes to test their skills against others from different regions and countries. It also helps discover new talent as the sport gains popularity,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Muaythai Association (PMNS) president Jumaat Ibrahim urged the residents in Bintulu to support Sarawak muaythai athletes at SUKMA 2024 in August, with Naim Street Mall @ Paragon being the venue for the competition.
He thanked the Sarawak government and other organisations for their support.
For record, the Sarawak Premier Cup Muaythai Championship 2024, held from May 23 to 26, featured over 200 participants, including competitors from seven countries.
