RM280.7 MLN ALLOCATION FOR SPORTS FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT, IMPROVEMENT IN SARAWAK

KUCHING, Nov 19 (Bernama) -- An allocation of RM280.7 million is allocated under the Sarawak Budget 2025 for the development and improvements of sports facilities in the state, said Sarawak Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

He said the amount is a significant increase compared to RM76.4 million allocated under the the state's Budget 2024 and reflects the state government’s commitment to provide sports facilities of international standard.

Winding up the debate on the Sarawak Budget 2025 for his ministry at the State Legislative Assembly here today, Abdul Karim said it also planned to revive the Borneo Games next year to involve Sarawak, Sabah, Labuan, Kalimantan and Brunei Darussalam.

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“However, the dates and venues are to be determined after coordination meetings with the neighbouring regions. This competition aims to highlight emerging local sporting talents and provide current athletes the chance to measure their performance against peers from other regions,” he said. 

He said his ministry's youth and sports database next year aims to allow for informed, data-driven decisions and to allocate progress across all levels.

He said the database would help his ministry to develop effective targeted strategies for youth development in leadership, sports and entrepreneurship, and shape policies that positively impact the lives of Sarawak’s youth.

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“Extensive research and an inclusive approach to data collection are required to develop this database. To ensure the database is comprehensive and accurate, my ministry will work with the Institute for Youth Research Malaysia (IYRES) on the Sarawak Youth Index 2.0 study,” he said. 

He said this data will be integrated into the existing Integrated Games Management System (IGMS) from the Sarawak Sports Council (SSC) to create a system that serves the needs of various key stakeholders. 

“We are also looking at integrating into Sarawak Big Data in time to come,” he said.

For next year, Abdul Karim also said MYSED would be focussing on a futurising the youth programme by equipping youth with essential skills for a rapidly evolving world. 

“The Futurize Youth @ AI Initiative will train over 500 youths in Sarawak with artificial intelligence skills, preparing them for careers in technology and supporting the growth of Sarawak’s high-tech sector,” he added.

-- BERNAMA