LIMBANG: Strategic cooperation among local associations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and government agencies needs to be strengthened to expand the hosting of sporting events and promote Limbang as a regional sports tourism destination.
Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah said the active involvement of various parties is important to ensure sports and community programmes can be carried out continuously without relying entirely on the initiative of the Federal or state governments.
He said the establishment of a special committee involving local associations, Limbang natives' associations abroad and government agencies could serve as a platform for coordinating programmes in a more systematic and effective manner.
He said such cooperation has the potential to be expanded through events such as marathons and cycling that can attract participants from within and outside the country, thereby boosting the local tourism sector and economy.
He said this at the opening ceremony of Limbang LUSIRun 2026 here on Saturday.
Datuk Hasbi also explained that the development of the Sabah-Sarawak Link Road (SSLR) Phase 2 will open up opportunities to explore new sports and recreation routes in the interior, including around Gunung Mulu and Gunung Muda.
Accordingly, he encouraged Limbang's sons and daughters, including those living away from home, to contribute their expertise, experience and networks to widen the promotion of the district's sports and tourism potential.
Meanwhile, Limbang LUSIRun 2026, organised by the Sarawak Limbang Natives in Peninsular Malaysia Association (PAALS) and Dang Sanak Limbang Miri (DSLM), drew participants from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Sabah, Labuan and Peninsular Malaysia, showing the district's potential as a venue for regional-level sporting events.
Also present were representative of the Limbang Divisional Resident Cherylynna Leeza Roland, Limbang Assistant District Officer Mariati Samat, PAALS chairman Petra Sulai and DSLM chairman Sabtu Matali. -UKASnews
