PLANS to revive the marathon in Sibu, Sarawak, have not materialised because of the high costs involved, says Sibu Division Amateur Athletic Association (SAAA) secretary Ting Siew Nguong.
“We could only secure sponsorship from RM40,000 to RM50,000, but organising costs can easily go up to RM100,000,” he said.
Prize money alone would have required up to RM70,000, he said, adding that marathons were already being held in Miri, Bintulu and Kuching.
The association had last year mooted the idea of reviving Sibu Marathon in 2026.
Separately, SAAA president Dr Gregory Hii Sui Cheng said Sibu Open Athletic Championship could see the participation of athletes from Singapore following the introduction of direct flights between Sibu and the island republic.
Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, currently operates three weekly flights for that route.
“With this direct link, we should invite athletes from Singapore to participate in our future Sarawak and Sibu Amateur Open,” he said at the SAAA annual general meeting.
Hii said the direct connection would make it easier for Singapore-based athletes to join the annual event that draws more than 1,000 participants each year.
“That is a good opportunity to broaden participation. In that way, we can transform Sibu Open into Sibu International Open.”
Hii said SAAA also planned to organise a fun walk to encourage more people to take up physical activities.
At the meeting, Hii was unanimously returned as president.
Also retaining their posts were deputy president Lau Kah Ding, vice-president Peter Chiu Lik Sing, secretary Ting Siew Nguong, assistant secretaries Theng Yuk Chieng and Benjamin Yeo and treasurer Kueh Tai Lee.
Penghulu Yong King Sung was elected vice-president, replacing David Teo.
