‘Regatta enlivens the community’
SARATOK: Regattas not only bring us down memory lane but also boost local water sports for the surrounding community and attract visitors from afar.
Saratok MP Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom said many people have forgotten the importance of rivers as transportation networks and as a water source due to the passage of time and modernisation.
“By organising river activities we can create awareness about our roots and the importance of keeping our rivers clean as they are part of the ecosystem,” he said.
Mawan said this before he officiated at the Saratok Regatta held at Pentas Ria in Dataran Krian here yesterday.
“Regatta is also an activity where we discover new talent in water sports among the local population who can compete in powerful and fast boats,” he added.
The water sports also foster teamwork and instil the spirit of healthy competition among participants.
Around 3,000 people showed up to witness and partake in the activities during the regatta, which according to Mawan proved that water sports could lead to unity among the races and increase business revenue.
Also present at the event were Betong Resident Dato Romi Sigan Daniel, Kabong District Officer Kamalludin Alkap, heads of government departments and local community leaders.