SIBU: The Sibu Powerboat Race 2023 commenced on Friday (Nov 3) at the Jalan Khoo Peng Loong wharf, drawing a participation of over 200 boats, including representatives from Brunei.
Co-organised by the Sibu Motor Sports Association and Persatuan Perpaduan Sungai Merah, the event from Nov 3 to 5 has garnered overwhelming response.
The race features eight exciting categories, each offering prizes totalling RM48,250. The categories encompass 5hp open, 18hp long boat, 18hp tunnel boat, 30hp 2 cylinder tunnel boat, 30hp 3 cylinder tunnel boat, SST-45 formula light, 50hp tunnel boat, and SST-60 pro class tunnel boat.
The event was officially inaugurated by Joshua Ting Fu Ying, a councillor from the Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC), representing federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
Following the flag-off, Ting expressed his hopes for the race to grow even more substantial in the coming years. He underlined the significance of this year’s race, which marks a remarkable comeback after a 13-year hiatus.
“Since this is the first time the Sibu Powerboat Race has started afresh after a 13-year lapse, we hope that the next race will be undertaken on a larger and more dynamic scale than this year.”
He also highlighted the event’s international appeal, with participation from Brunei, and voiced optimism that more foreign countries will join the race in the next edition. “In this regard, I hope more parties will sponsor the event next year.”
Sibu Municipal Council deputy chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley and organising chairman Emir Rosely were also present.
