KUCHING: A friendly pickleball match between the Sarawak Government Welfare and Sports Council (MAKSAK) Sarawak and the GPS Backbenchers served as a platform to foster closer ties between elected representatives and state civil servants.

The tournament, held at Star Pickleball Kuching on Saturday, marked the first time a pickleball event was organised involving both parties.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg was present to officiate the symbolic opening with a kickoff pickleball rally after taking the time to pose for photographs with the participants.

Shortly after, he received a pickleball paddle as a souvenir from Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and the President of the Kuching Pickleball Association Ruslan Bujang alongside receiving an appreciation plaque from Tanjong Batu Assemblyman Johnny Phang Leong Ming.

Meanwhile, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar, when met by reporters, stated that the programme was held to provide an avenue for the backbenchers and civil servants to enjoy recreational activities while strengthening their camaraderie.

According to him, all parties had worked hard throughout the week in conjunction with the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting; hence, a relaxed programme like this could create a friendlier atmosphere between both sides.

“We are taking the opportunity this weekend to engage in recreation while strengthening relationships between the backbenchers and members of the civil service,” he said.

He noted that although pickleball is still a relatively new sport, the response received was highly encouraging, including from participants who were trying the game for the first time.

Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar is also confident that the tournament will be continued in the future following the positive reception received during this inaugural hosting.

Also present were the Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordination for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Chief Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak and Tupong Assemblyman Dato Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, and other dignitaries. -UKASnews

Prepared By: Nur Nabilla
Photos By: George S. Embie
Translator: Ryan Lim