KOTA SAMARAHAN: Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang has asserted the vital role of sports in engaging the youth and steering them away from social ills.
At the inauguration of the Muara Desa Badminton Club (MDBC) 2024 Competition at the Datuk Rubiah Wang Arena Hall in Taman Desa Ilmu, she said that sports could be a remedy for social issues affecting young people, the Sarawak Public Communications Unit reported.
Rubiah noted that despite the tendency to associate youths with social problems, these issues could be mitigated by immersing them in wholesome activities.
"If the youth spend their time in beneficial activities like sports, it not only hones their talents but also shapes them into individuals of high calibre," she said.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the Federal Government's commitment, reflected in the previous budget allocations, with RM50 million dedicated to maintaining and upgrading sports facilities nationwide, especially those in poor condition.
Additionally, a matching grant of RM50 million was earmarked to encourage the organisation of high-performance sports events.
"These allocations are clear proof that the Federal Government is concerned and attentive to sports involvement among citizens.
"Furthermore, RM30 million has been allocated for the development and growth of esports in the country, aligning with the Government's ambition to make Malaysia a renowned e-sports hub in the region," she added.
The MDBC 2024 Competition, organised in collaboration with the Sarawak Sports Corporation, took place on Feb 10 and 11.
The event saw Cassandra Hazel and Nurisha Fatihah emerge as champions in the Women's Doubles category, while Ser Sudin and Entali Jingan claimed the title in the Veterans' Doubles category for the combined age of 85 years.
In the Men's Novice Doubles, Muhd Amir Asyraaf Sepawi and Nikram Shazran were declared champions.