Minister: Samarahan Marathon has potential to go international
SAMARAHAN: The Samarahan Marathon has the potential to be included as an international event under the Association of International Marathons (AIM), says Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development said this would be in addition to Sarawak’s two internationallyrecognised marathons, namely Kuching Marathon and Miri Marathon.
“For the Samarahan Marathon, I believe it can be accepted as an international event because it is very well-organised and has received excellent response.
“I hope the organisers could apply for this event to be included in AIM to promote it not only in Sarawak, but also internationally,” he told reporters after presenting prizes to the winners at La Promenade Mall here yesterday.
The two-day event, which concluded yesterday, was organised by Hock Seng Lee (HSL), City Joggers Club and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas).
In expressing hope that Samarahan Marathon would become an annual event, Abdul Karim said his ministry would provide financial assistance if needed for future editions.
“I’m aware that this year, Hock Seng Lee and the other organisers didn’t request contributions from my ministry.
“I’m pleased with this, not because we’re unwilling to assist, but because it shows the organisers’ ability to independently manage the event without government aid, for which I commend them,” he said.
The marathon drew over 2,000 participants including from Africa, Brunei, Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak.
Also present was Kota Samarahan Municipal Council chairman Dato Peter Minos.