Hornbill Athletics Association Lacks Funding for Talent Development - Liu Longyu Hopes for Support from All Sectors

(Kuching, 7th) Kuching South City Councillor Liu Longyu was recently officially appointed as an advisor to the Hornbill Athletics Association. He expressed his commitment to fully assist the association in overcoming the various challenges it currently faces, particularly the difficulties related to funding and resources. He called on all sectors of society to support the sports dreams of young people and to cultivate more sports talents for Sarawak and the nation.

It is understood that the Hornbill Athletics Association is an active and influential athletic organization locally, which has invested significant effort over the years in discovering and cultivating young sports talents. The association has brought together many outstanding athletes who have not only achieved impressive results in provincial and state-level competitions but also have the potential to advance to national and even international platforms.

However, during the talent development process, the association has continually faced a harsh reality of funding shortages. Due to insufficient funds, many promising young athletes are unable to obtain proper training resources and competition opportunities, which leads to them being defeated by reality before even stepping onto the field.

The association's president, Mr. Zhu, admitted that although the athletes possess extraordinary talents and an unyielding fighting spirit, due to the high costs of training camps, equipment, transportation, accommodation, and competition registration, the association often cannot provide them with comprehensive support. This not only affects the athletes' development but also limits the overall performance and influence of the association.

After being appointed as an advisor, Councillor Liu Longyu expressed empathy and stated that young people must have clear goals and dreams, and it is society's responsibility to provide support and assurance on their path to striving, especially when they encounter difficulties. Society cannot stand idly by.

Liu Longyu (third from the right), appointed as an advisor to the Hornbill Athletics Association, stated he will find ways to assist the association in resolving funding shortages. "I believe that every young person has potential, and they are willing to work hard toward their goals. This spirit is what we should cherish and support the most. Especially when they face obstacles like insufficient funding in their pursuit of dreams, we must be their strong backing."

Liu Longyu pointed out that in his discussions with the association, he realized there are indeed many outstanding young athletes locally who have the potential to compete on international stages, but are forced to give up due to financial issues. He described this situation as "losing the opportunity to compete before even taking the field." This is not only a great regret for the individuals but also a significant loss for the national sports development.

Liu Longyu emphasized that if the nation wants to shine on the international stage, it must fundamentally formulate more comprehensive policies to support youth, not only in academic development but also in sports, arts, and other extracurricular areas.

"The future of a country lies in the growth of the younger generation. We should not limit education to textbooks and exam results, but should also focus on their overall development in sports, clubs, volunteer services, and workplace skills."

He stated that promoting youth growth should be a fundamental national policy not only requiring government policy formulation but also encouraging local government, non-governmental organizations, enterprises, and even individuals to contribute within their capacity.

"We should not let children lose an opportunity to step onto the world stage due to a few thousand ringgit of funding. Once these opportunities are missed, they may never be recovered."

Liu Longyu also suggested that in the future, more cross-boundary cooperation models should be promoted to gather resources for the Hornbill Athletics Association. This includes negotiating sponsorship plans with enterprises, organizing charity runs and fundraising dinners, and other activities to increase social concern and support for youth sports development.

He believes that part of corporate social responsibility can be invested in youth development projects, especially in the sports field. "When enterprises are willing to support athlete growth, it not only helps individuals but also equates to investing in the country's future."

 Hornbill Athletics Association President Mr. Zhu expressed great excitement about Liu Longyu's involvement. He said that the association has long faced resource constraints, and having an influential local leader as an advisor is undoubtedly a significant breakthrough in the association's development path.

"We warmly welcome Councillor Liu's involvement. He not only possesses excellent public service experience but also sincerely cares about the growth of young people. His arrival gives us new hope and motivation."

Mr. Zhu also revealed that the association will further formulate medium- and long-term development plans, including systematic talent training, enhancement of coaching teams, and interactive cooperation with other athletic organizations. It is also hoped that with Advisor Liu Longyu's influence, more social resources can be garnered.

Liu Longyu lastly called on all sectors of society, whether in politics, business, or as ordinary citizens, to pay attention to and support the development of youth sports.

"We cannot rely solely on an association or an individual’s strength. Young people are the future of the nation, and we must work together to pave the road to success for them. If we help a young athlete achieve their dream today, perhaps tomorrow they will hold the championship cup for our country on the international stage."

He also reiterated his commitment to assisting the Hornbill Athletics Association tirelessly and expressed his willingness to collaborate with anyone or any entity that supports youth sports development to build a more competitive sports future for Sarawak and the nation.