CM praises Eagles Rugby Club
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Haji Aman lauded efforts by the Eagles Rugby Club to keep its commitment going for the globally known Borneo Sevens.
The international clubs tournament sprung from humble beginnings in 2001. It is dubbed “The Greenest Sevens In The World” and it is happening at the home of the Eagles at Bandar Utama in Sandakan, this weekend.
“I am delighted that Eagles Rugby Club Sandakan is keeping its commitment to organise the Borneo Sevens in Sandakan,” said Musa in his messages in the tournament's 2018 edition souvenir book.
“Once again rugby players and officials, with their supporters, will converge in Sandakan, and be given the opportunity to savour the varied attractions of Sabah's east coast town.
“While the visitors will learn more about what Sandakan has to offer, local sports fans will have the thrill of watching international level rugby delivered right to their doorstep for all to enjoy,” he added.
“The focus will be on Sandakan and since Eagles Rugby Club here has become the permanent home of the Borneo Sevens, this town has been receiving guests from around the world year after year.
“That will certainly help more people learn about Sabah and in particular the town of Sandakan,” said Musa.
Musa said it is the Sabah government's practice to promote holistic health and encourage the people to take up an active lifestyle.
“We have been working hand in hand with many sports organisations to create an active, dynamic and healthy society and I am pleased to say that the rugby fraternity is among them.
“Rugby, like other games, is a wonderful platform to strengthen unity among our multiracial and multicultural citizens.
“The State Government is aware of this and has contributed considerable resources to support the many sports bodies here in Sabah.
Musa said he was also pleased to note that sportsmen and sportswomen from Sabah have been wearing national jerseys of their respective sports to represent the country.
He said this is indeed a great development for sports in general and the game of rugby in particular.
“I am convinced that the determination and fortitude of Sabah rugby officials and players will help stamp Sabah as a major force in the game.
He added: “The hosting of this annual Borneo Sevens International Clubs event will put the game of rugby in the limelight and firmly boost and encourage more people to include sports and games in their daily lives.”
For the record, 15 men and eight women's teams from 10 nations will vie for the titles in the tournament that starts on Friday.