BALAI RINGIN, April 10: Sarawak can achieve its target of becoming Malaysia’s sports powerhouse and sports destination one day, asserts Minister of Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Speaking at the Balai Ringin mini stadium earth breaking ceremony by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg this morning, Abdul Karim believed that such a vision and mission are achievable because Sarawak can and have produced quality athletes.
Citing the example of 15 Sukma athletes hailing from Balai Ringin constituency alone, Abdul Karim said: “Training in a proper environment, our athletes can focus on reaching new levels of prowess and will be well-prepared physically and mentally when participating in major sports events such as Sukma or international meets.
“This is also why Abang Johari had given approvals to build several mini sport complexes around the state to facilitate training for athletes. We hope to identify the potential youths have in their respective sports that they are keen on, develop their potential and be able to excel in the sports that they like and ultimately, this will bring about the good name of Sarawak and the spirit of challenge among our younger generation.”
He assured that the ministry is aiming at digging out and giving opportunities to not just urban but also rural youths in sports.
“There are many out there. We must look into the rural areas for these active youths and cultivate the fighting spirit towards sports. This will also act as a mechanism to curb social issues by encouraging youths to be actively engaged in sporting activities.
“Once the Balai Ringin mini stadium is complete, this place will definitely give our youths who are not only from this area but also Serian, Samarahan and Sri Aman the opportunity to shine,” he added.
Commenting on the mini stadium, Abdul Karim said it consisted of a standard football field, special running track, badminton hall and rock climbing which will benefit many schools surrounding the area. — DayakDaily
