KUCHING: This year’s Sarawak Regatta will see an International Dragon Boat Exhibition Race for the very first time here.
Five teams from Hong Kong, China, Brunei, Singapore and Indonesia have confirmed coming. Teams from Cambodia, Thailand and Australia have yet to confirm.
This is among several changes for the regatta which will be held here from Sept 6 to 8.
Tourism Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg said the changes were made in conjunction with the state’s 50th year of independence through Malaysia.
He said the exhibition race was organised by the state tourism ministry, and assisted by the Penang Dragon Boat Association.
“The confirmed Malaysian teams are from Sandakan, Putrajaya and Penang.
“Depending on the response of this race, we may consider creating a separate event for it in the next few years,” he told a press conference here yesterday after meeting organisers and other stakeholders. Abang Johari said this year’s Regatta would have a new race route.
“On top of the 2,000 metre route starting from Kampung Panglima Seman, there will also be a starting point from Kampung Bintangor, measuring 800m.”
He said there would also be side events involving small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs) operators.
“We will have more exposure for local handicrafts makers as well as cultural-based presentations to showcase the uniqueness of our various ethnic groups. There will also be a food fiesta.”
Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Sarawak Regatta to have international flavour
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