KUCHING: Various sports events are set to take centre stage in 2025, showcasing Sarawak’s commitment to youth, sports development, and international collaboration.

According to the Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the highlighted events include the enhancement of Sarawak X-Tive Programmes, the revival of the Borneo Games 2025, and Sarawak co-hosting the International Cricket Championship (ICC) Under 19 Women's T20 World Cup in Kuching.

The Sarawak X-Tive Programme will involve strategic collaborations with stakeholders to increase its reach and impact by holding activities across all divisions in Sarawak, focusing on partnerships with NGOs and other relevant organisations.

Another major event, the Borneo Games 2025, aims to spotlight emerging local sporting talents and allow current athletes to measure their skills against those from other regions.

“However, the dates and venues are to be determined after coordination meetings with the neighbouring regions.

“Plans are underway to collaborate with Sabah in organizing the Games, which will feature contingents from Sarawak, Labuan, Kalimantan and Brunei Darussalam,” he said.

He said this during his ministerial winding-up session at the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly Sitting on Tuesday.

Additionally, Sarawak will co-host the ICC Under 19 Women's T20 World Cup in Kuching in January 2025, marking the second time Sarawak has hosted an international cricket event.

With live broadcasts reaching over 200 countries, this tournament will feature teams from New Zealand, Nigeria, Samoa, and South Africa, with the preliminary round running simultaneously in Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru from January 18 to 28.

Six winning teams from the preliminary round will then head to Kuching for the second round before advancing to the semi-finals and finals in Kuala Lumpur.

“The success of this event will enhance Sarawak’s reputation as a key venue for international cricket, paving the way for more global competitions.

“My Ministry looks forward to further collaborations with international cricket leaders to bring more events to Sarawak,” he added.

This event is expected to significantly boost local hospitality, tourism, and businesses while inspiring youth interest in cricket and fostering future talent development.– UKASnews