Sarawak Aquatics strengthening the development of young talent, training in aquatic sports

KUCHING, 17 Oct: Aquatic Sarawak (ASWK) is committed to strengthening the development of young talent, enhancing training standards and expanding athlete's opportunities to achieve excellence at state, national and international levels.

Its president, Tan Kun Gee said that the development of water sports should not only be focused on winning medals, but rather build a path for sustainable athletic development from the root level to the elite level.

"We need to develop young talent, raise the standard of training and provide more opportunities for athletes to achieve excellence at state, national and international levels.

"Our goal is not just to give birth to a champion today but to build a champion for life", he said while addressing the Sarawak Birthday Welcome Dinner, Awards and Aquatic Awards ceremony of SUKMA Selangor 2026 here tonight.

In attendance, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Development Sarawak, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu and Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) were accompanied by Director of the Sarawak Sports Council (MSNS), Mu'azamir Jili.

Kun Gee said investments in talent development, coaching and sports facilities should be strengthened to ensure that Sarawak athletes are able to perform better in the long run.

He also announced that the name change of Amateur Swimming Association Sarawak (ASAS) to Aquatic Sarawak (ASWK) has been approved, thus marking a new leaf in efforts to strengthen association identity and development of state aquatic sports.

According to him, the success of developing aquatic sports requires the cooperation of all stakeholders including coaches, parents and association officials, as well as more robust planning and preparation.

"Most importantly, we have to work together with a common vision. Better preparation, stronger teamwork and greater investment will help us achieve better results.

"Our ambition is not just to win medals in a tournament but to build a strong and sustainable sports culture for future generations", he said.