KOTA KINABALU: Sabah aims to position itself as a top destination for family-oriented sporting events, with a focus on sports tourism. The ongoing 2023 Malaysia Borneo Football Cup is an example of this commitment, attracting the participation of 30 junior teams from Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Peninsular Malaysia, and Sabah. Speaking at a welcome dinner for tournament participants and their families, Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai expressed his excitement to see the tournament back on the annual calendar following the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Since its inception in 2008, the tournament has served as a cherished tradition.
Datuk Joniston Bangkuai added, “We’ve had the honor of hosting teams from Hong Kong, Thailand, South Korea, and Japan in previous years, and we eagerly anticipate their return.” Bangkuai, who is also the state Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, was joined by Borneo Cup tournament director Scott Ollerenshaw, Sabah FC chief executive officer Marzuki Nasir, and Australian football personalities Andrew Paschalidis and Alan Davidson.
The STB chairman also expressed support for Ollerenshaw’s announcement of a junior tournament for girls, emphasizing that it not only reflects Sabah’s dedication to expanding its sports offerings but also contributes to the diversity of its tourism portfolio. Bangkuai stated, “It aligns perfectly with our vision of promoting sports tourism and attracting families seeking a unique blend of sports education and leisure.”
Bangkuai highlighted that such tournaments serve as platforms for talent discovery and the development of sportsmanship. Additionally, they provide participants with the opportunity to experience Sabah’s diverse culture and natural beauty.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
