KUCHING: The Borneo Cross Border Cycling Tour is more than just a sporting event—it serves as a platform to strengthen ties between Malaysia and Indonesia, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Welcoming participants from Indonesia, the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts expressed Sarawak’s warm hospitality and gratitude for being chosen as one of the event’s key destinations.
“This programme is not just about cycling. It is about fostering closer ties between our two nations.
“It also encourages people-to-people connections and promotes regional unity while cultivating a love for cycling,” he said.
He said this during the Borneo Cross Border Cycling Tour dinner held at a hotel here, last night (Feb 7).
Abdul Karim, who is also the Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, encouraged participants to take the opportunity to explore Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage while in the state.
“Sarawak is known for its diverse traditions, from intricate handicrafts and mesmerising traditional dances to unique and flavourful cuisine.
“I hope our visitors will take the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of our multi-ethnic communities, including the Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, and Orang Ulu,” he said.
He also expressed hope that the Borneo Cross Border Cycling Tour would continue in the coming years, further strengthening Malaysia and Indonesia relations through sports.
“As we celebrate this event, I hope participants will not only bring home fond memories of their cycling journey but also meaningful experiences from their interactions with the local community,” he said.
He also thanked all stakeholders involved in organising the event, including his ministries, the Museum Cycling Community Pontianak, Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC), Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), Sarawak Craft Council (SCC), and various government agencies and organisations.
Borneo Cross Border Cycling Tour, a popular event which debuted in 2023, features around 60 cyclists this year.
The event has drawn cyclists from across Indonesia, including Jakarta, Bogor, Bali, Papua, and West Kalimantan.
Cyclists covered an 800-kilometre (km) route, travelling from Pontianak to Sambas, Kuching, Sosok, and back to Pontianak.
On Feb 6, participants embarked on a 105 km ride from the Biawak border to Merdeka Palace, Kuching. The following day, they completed a 27 km circuit around Kuching city. The event concludes on Feb 8 with a 101 km journey from Merdeka Palace to the Tebedu border.
