TAWAU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the State Government is committed to advancing Sabah’s sports sector, as reflected by numerous sports infrastructure developments under the State Youth and Sports Ministry.
“This commitment extends to providing incentives for athletes who bring glory to Sabah and Malaysia,” he said during the official opening of the 11th Sabah Games (Saga XI) at the Tawau Sports Complex Stadium, here, Saturday.
His speech was delivered by State Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ellron Alfred Angin.
“We hope to see more Sabah athletes shine on national and international stages. The government consistently recognises their achievements by allocating substantial funds annually for success incentives,” Hajiji said.
Held from Oct 11-17, this year’s games features 30 districts competing in 217 events across 23 sports categories, involving 9,588 athletes including district officials.
Hajiji said Saga represents the government’s continuous efforts to ensure Sabah maintains a steady pipeline of new talent, serving as a platform to discover and develop athletes for higher-level competition.
He urged the Ministry to continue identifying young talent through various programmes and competitions Statewide to cultivate sports as a way of life.
Hajiji reminded athletes that Saga should be more than just a quest for victory, but a platform to demonstrate fighting spirit and strong character.
“Every drop of sweat in the arena lays the foundation for Sabah’s future success. Build the good name of your district and State,” he said.
He hopes Saga will evolve into a prestigious sports carnival that not only attracts widespread community participation but also fosters a broader sports culture in Sabah.
“Such programmes contribute to a healthy and fit population while strengthening efforts to produce more young, excellent athletes,” he said.
He noted that Sabah has proven its ability to produce quality athletes, citing successful State sports stars like Farrel Glen Felix Jerus (high jump), Merrywati Manuil (silat), Evan Rich Chong (archery) and Jonathan John (boxing).
“They are proof that Sabah’s sons and daughters can be the pride of the State and nation,” he said.
Hajiji called on all Saga XI participants to compete with discipline and high sportsmanship, using the games as a platform to improve their performance.
“May Saga Tawau 2025 leave sweet memories, cultivate fighting spirit and produce a generation of Sabah athletes distinguished at State, national and even world level,” he said.
