SIBU: The new 3.3-acre synthetic football field in the Permai housing estate, which cost RM2 million and is the first of its kind in town, has been opened to the public.
Nangka assemblyman Dr Annuar Rapaee said that the synthetic football field comes with additional facilities such as parking lots, a players’ changing room, public toilets, and floodlights that allow matches to be played at night.
“We launched the first synthetic football field on Friday evening, and two years ago, Sibu became home to the longest skateboard plaza in Malaysia. These initiatives are aimed at benefiting the youth in Sibu,” Dr Annuar said during the Program Jelajah Belia @ Sibu event yesterday (June 24).
He went on to say that the development of sports facilities, including the synthetic football field, was one of the priorities for the youth in Sibu.
Dr Annuar acknowledged the efforts made by Bukit Assek Assemblyman Joseph Chieng Jin Ek and Pelawan assemblymen Michael Tiang in ensuring that the youth in Sibu have access to such facilities, so they are not left behind their peers in the state.
“I encourage the youth here to share their ideas and suggestions with the Sarawak government through this programme. It is an excellent platform for the youth to express their needs and aspirations,” he added.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, also stressed the importance of active participation by the youth in the development of Sarawak.
“Being a spectator is not enough; the youth should have aspirations. The future of Sarawak lies in your hands, and we can only lead the way. Let us work together to advance Sarawak. The next 60 years will belong to you,” said Rentap.
Also present were Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, Michael Tiang Ming Tee.
