KUCHING: The Yayasan Sarawak Gold Cup Football Championship continues to stand out as an important platform for nurturing grassroots sporting talent, particularly among school students, while also reinforcing the development of the state’s next generation of athletes.

Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the organisation of this tournament is not solely focused on performance, but also places strong emphasis on character building, personal development, discipline and integrity among students.

“In sports, determination matters more than results alone, and we firmly believe that competitions such as this can foster positive and healthy rivalry.

“This will certainly help shape strong values, build teamwork, enhance physical and mental resilience, and cultivate civic-mindedness, including noble values that contribute to the growth of capable and exemplary individuals,” he said.

He shared these remarks during the tournament’s closing ceremony at the Sarawak State Stadium on Saturday.

The Sarawak Governor, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, were present to officiate the event.

Dato Sri Abdul Karim also expressed his hope for educators and players alike to strengthen their commitment and efforts to ensure that sports and co-curricular activities continue to thrive in the years ahead.

As Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, he also extended his congratulations to the teams that celebrated success that afternoon.

He noted that their achievements serve as proof of their dedication, disciplined training and mental fortitude throughout the competition.

“For those who did not win this time, take this as experience and motivation to continue striving for excellence in the future,” he added.-UKASnews

Reporter : Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Photographer : Ibanez Jeffery & Mohd Shahril
Translator : Uilson Ng