BETONG: The Layar Cycling Carnival will undergo further enhancements in future editions to raise the competition’s prestige and nurture local cycling talent capable of competing at the international level.

Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said plans for improvements include exploring the possibility of extending race distances, subject to the suitability of the road network and compliance with safety requirements.

According to the Layar Assemblyman, the 8th Layar Cycling Carnival 2026 was successfully held without any accidents, thanks to close cooperation between the Public Works Department (JKR) Betong Division, Betong District Council, SABERKAS Layar Branch and other government agencies.

He said this when met by reporters after officiating at the closing ceremony of the 8th Layar Cycling Carnival 2026 at RTC Layar on Sunday.

Datuk Gerald said continuous efforts are needed to raise competition standards and ensuring the selected race routes offer participants an enjoyable experience without compromising safety.

On local talent development, he said Sarawak has significant potential to produce more cyclists capable of representing the country on the international stage.

He said Sarawak’s achievement of three gold medals in cycling at the 22nd Malaysia Games (SUKMA XXII) Selangor 2026 demonstrated the ability of its athletes to continue excelling in the sport.

He stressed that talent development must be pursued consistently to provide more Sarawakians, including those from Betong, with opportunities to develop their potential and achieve excellence in cycling.

According to Datuk Gerald, ongoing road infrastructure development in Sarawak also opens up greater opportunities to host cycling events, including along the route from Sri Aman to Betong via the soon-to-be-completed Batang Lupar 2 Bridge.

“Infrastructure development such as bridges not only benefits the public in terms of physical connectivity but also supports the growth of other sectors including sports,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Layar Assemblyman expressed appreciation to the Sarawak Government under the leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg for its commitment to providing infrastructure that supports sports development and public wellbeing.

He added that cooperation between government agencies and local authorities is crucial to ensuring sporting events are organised smoothly and safely, besides creating opportunities for Sarawak athletes to progress to national and international competitions.

The closing ceremony also saw the Betong District Office appointed to lead the Layar Cycling Carnival Organising Committee for the next two years.

Also present was Betong Member of Parliament Dato Dr Richard Rapu. -UKASnews