EXPAND SIBU INTERNATIONAL POWERBOAT RACE PROMOTIONS FOR MORE FOREIGN RACE COMPETITORS

SIBU, April 25 (Bernama) -- Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the promotions of the Sibu International Powerboat Race 2025, which kicked off today at the Pulau Li Hua waterfront, need to be expanded further as an international-class competition to attract more racers from abroad.

He described the race as one with great potential to strengthen Sarawak's tourism sector, especially in Sibu.

"This is a very good programme. It can have a big impact on the local tourism industry if expanded with international-scale organising," he said when met after officiating the event today.

He stressed that close cooperation from all parties is needed, especially in terms of financing and providing more lucrative cash prizes to attract international racers.

“All parties need to work together to promote this race not only locally but also internationally. My ministry is ready to assist in terms of promotion and organisation,” he said.

The race involves various boat categories including Formula Three and Four, with participation from all over Sarawak and also Brunei Darussalam.

Commenting on the possibility of organising a Formula One speedboat race, Tiong described the proposal as a good step to provide opportunities for locals to delve into the organising aspects and experience world-class sports.

“If there are any interested parties, we welcome discussions with the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts and then take this proposal to the federal government level,” he said.

He also announced an allocation of RM200,000 from his ministry for the organisation of the prestigious water sports championship.

Tiong, who is also the Dudong assemblyman, is targeting an attendance of between 10,000 and 20,000 spectators over the three days of racing, with more than 3,000 visitors recorded on the first day of the championship today.

-- BERNAMA