(Kuching, 3rd) Sibu has successfully hosted the 2026 Sibu International RC (Remote Control) Power Boat River Challenge, showcasing its ability to organize world-class sporting events and enhancing anticipation for future international events, with hopes of even hosting the Sarawak Rowing Challenge.
Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, State Assemblyman for Dudong, shared on Facebook that participants came from Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Sibu was previously listed in the Malaysia Book of Records for the most participating RC power boats in a single event, further highlighting Sibu’s growing status as an international sports destination.
Tiong, who is also the Member of Parliament for Bintulu and Federal Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, noted that this achievement proves Sibu possesses the capacity and conditions needed to stage world-class sporting events.
He said, “Events of this scale not only display outstanding sportsmanship but also promote sports tourism, offering international visitors a glimpse into Sibu’s unique culture and warm hospitality, while simultaneously creating positive economic opportunities for local businesses, hotels, the food and beverage industry, transportation, and other community sectors.”
He believes Sibu should continue to seize the current momentum by actively attracting and hosting more international events. He added that with early planning, strengthened cooperation, and support from all relevant stakeholders, it is possible to establish the Sarawak Rowing Challenge in the future.
He stated, “Such events will not only enhance Sarawak’s sports profile, but also encourage more athletes and the local community to prepare, participate, and grow together, while positioning Sarawak as a leading regional destination for international sporting events.”
Speaking about the event, he expressed that the impact of the RC power boat competition is not limited to tourism and economic benefits, but also contributes to human capital development.
He pointed out that this sport can inspire young people to explore technology, engineering, innovation, and technical skills, and helps build discipline, teamwork, stress management ability, and sportsmanship through healthy competition. These important qualities will help nurture the next generation of talent to drive innovation and development in the future.
He said, “I hope the success of this year’s championship will inspire Sibu to host more international sporting events and further strengthen Sarawak’s position as a leading destination for sports tourism in the region.”
Tiong, who is also the Member of Parliament for Bintulu and Federal Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, noted that this achievement proves Sibu possesses the capacity and conditions needed to stage world-class sporting events.
He said, “Events of this scale not only display outstanding sportsmanship but also promote sports tourism, offering international visitors a glimpse into Sibu’s unique culture and warm hospitality, while simultaneously creating positive economic opportunities for local businesses, hotels, the food and beverage industry, transportation, and other community sectors.”
He believes Sibu should continue to seize the current momentum by actively attracting and hosting more international events. He added that with early planning, strengthened cooperation, and support from all relevant stakeholders, it is possible to establish the Sarawak Rowing Challenge in the future.
He stated, “Such events will not only enhance Sarawak’s sports profile, but also encourage more athletes and the local community to prepare, participate, and grow together, while positioning Sarawak as a leading regional destination for international sporting events.”
Speaking about the event, he expressed that the impact of the RC power boat competition is not limited to tourism and economic benefits, but also contributes to human capital development.
He pointed out that this sport can inspire young people to explore technology, engineering, innovation, and technical skills, and helps build discipline, teamwork, stress management ability, and sportsmanship through healthy competition. These important qualities will help nurture the next generation of talent to drive innovation and development in the future.
He said, “I hope the success of this year’s championship will inspire Sibu to host more international sporting events and further strengthen Sarawak’s position as a leading destination for sports tourism in the region.”