State Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (third left) chatting with several deputy ministers at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on Tuesday (Nov 19). - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: Sarawak plans to revive the Borneo Games next year to strengthen regional cooperation and unity, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The state Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister said the competition aimed to highlight emerging sporting talents and provide opportunities for athletes to compete with their peers.
"Plans are underway to collaborate with Sabah in organising the Games, which will feature contingents from Sarawak, Sabah, Labuan, Kalimantan and Brunei," he said in his winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on Tuesday (Nov 19).
He added that the dates and venues would be determined after coordination meetings with the neighbouring regions.
Karim also said Sarawak will co-host the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup in Kuching next year.
He said the preliminary round from Jan 18-28, which will also run simultaneously in Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru, will feature teams from New Zealand, Nigeria, Samoa and South Africa.
"The event provides young cricketers a platform to display their talent, with live broadcasts reaching over 200 countries.
"Six winning teams from the preliminary round will return to Kuching for the second round before they qualify for the semifinals and final in Kuala Lumpur," he said.
Abdul Karim said the event would not only showcase Sarawak's hospitality and culture to a global audience but also have an economic impact on local businesses.
He said it would also inspire interest in cricket and help develop future talent.
"Additionally, it will enhance Sarawak's reputation as a key venue for international cricket, paving the way for more global competitions.
"My ministry looks forward to further collaborations with international cricket leaders to bring more events to Sarawak," he said.
