Sibu lobbying to build AstroTurf hockey pitch on proposed land
SIBU: Sibu’s dream of having its own AstroTurf hockey pitch to cater to the need of the sport in the area and central region is inching closer to reality.
Education and Technological Research Assistant Minister Dr Annuar Rapaee said yesterday that a piece of land has been identified and is suitable for the construction of the facility, based on the recommendation from the Land and Survey Department.
“I will discuss with Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
“Hopefully, he will allocate some fund for it,” he enthused.
Dr Annuar, who is also Assistant Minister of Housing and Public Health, said it is high time Sibu has a AstroTurf hockey pitch since there is not even a grass field for the sport in Sibu.
This had compelled some players to train on cement courts which could lead to injuries, the Nangka assemblyman said.
Hoping to bring Sibu’s glory days in hockey, he said, “Sarawak were once a powerhouse in hockey. In fact, Sibu produced many state players back then.
“But the lack of proper facilities have made the sport less popular here and interest among the younger generation has dwindled over time.
For the record, Sibu team was Sarawak Cup champion nine times during a stretch from 1970s to early 1980s. Sibu had also represented Sarawak and won the Borneo Cup.
Meanwhile, Dr Annuar said hockey would be included in Nangka Challenge Series 2019 alongside futsal, 7-a-side football, bowling and sepak takraw.
He also revealed that a number of people from the hockey fraternity here have suggested that Sibu should have a governing body to revitalise the sport in the division.
I will discuss with Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. Hopefully, he will allocate some fund for it. Dr Annuar Rapaee, Education and Technological Research Assistant Minister