Olympic Council of Malaysia hails S’wak as ‘exemplary state in sports development’
KUCHING: The Olympic Council of Malaysia (MOM) regards Sarawak as an ‘exemplary state’, in terms of sports development.
This was highlighted by the council president Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria during a courtesy call on Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg here yesterday.
According to a report from Sarawak Information Department, the purpose of the meeting was to discuss the progress of sports, especially in Sarawak, which Norza hailed as ‘holding big potential as organiser of regional and international sports events’.
“In terms of sports development, Sarawak is an exemplary state that has made a lot of investments, especially at the grassroots level, by providing high-quality sports facilities that are suitable for holding international sports tournaments.
“Sarawak has set a benchmark for other states in Malaysia to invest in sports as a medium to strengthen unity, and also give opportunities to the young ones to produce a healthy and productive generation.”
Norza also acknowledged Sarawak’s preparations for this year’s Malaysia Games (Sukma) – the largest national-level junior sports meet in Malaysia, and basically, an event that young athletes had always looked forward to.
He added: “Sukma 2024 is a platform for Malaysia to be ready for the South East Asean (SEA) Games in Thailand in 2025, and in Malaysia in 2027.”
Norza also conveyed his appreciation to Abang Johari as well as the state Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, for giving the MOM the opportunity to play a role in bringing the Olympic sports movement to Sarawak.
Tanjong Datu assemblyman, who is also Malaysia’s Taekwondo president, Azizul Annuar Adenan was also present at the courtesy call.