KUCHING: Sarawak is set to welcome the world’s rising tennis stars as the 42nd edition of the Sarawak Premier Cup Junior Tennis Championship returns from April 20 to 27.
The championship is now elevated to the prestigious J300 status under the International Tennis Federation (ITF) World Tennis Tour Juniors.
The tournament, hosted by the Sarawak Lawn Tennis Association (SLTA), has drawn 138 players – 73 boys and 65 girls – from 20 countries, including Australia, Japan, Russia, the United States and Malaysia.
According to Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the J300 classification is a major milestone, placing the Premier Cup just below the Junior Grand Slam and Grade A events on the ITF circuit.
“Hosting a J300 event is not only a mark of prestige but also a reflection of Sarawak’s capability in meeting international standards – in infrastructure, organisation and hospitality,” he said at a press conference at the Baitulmakmur II building today.
Abdul Karim noted that the upgraded classification allows the tournament to offer more ITF world-ranking points, attracting high-ranking juniors from across the globe.
Among the notable names are Ryo Tabata of Japan, currently ranked 35th in the world, and Cruz Hewitt of Australia, ranked 78th and son of former world No. 1 player, Lleyton Hewitt.
Malaysia’s own Devesh Sarawanan, ranked 588th, will also represent the host country.
“These are future Grand Slam players, and we’re proud to host them here in Sarawak,” said Abdul Karim.
He added that the tournament not only boosts the local sports scene but also contributes to the tourism industry, with athletes arriving alongside their families, coaches and supporters.
The minister praised the SLTA, led by Datuk Patrick Liew, for its dedication to consistently hosting age-group tournaments from under-14 to under-18, helping raise Sarawak’s profile on the international tennis map.
He also revealed that Sarawak has begun exploring the possibility of hosting a J500-level tournament – a rare and highly prestigious junior event currently held only in Japan within Asia.
“With our proven track record, Sarawak is ready for the J500,” he said.
In his speech, the minister also announced the revival of the Borneo Games, last held in 2013.
This year’s edition will mark a new beginning, featuring five core sports, traditional events such as tarik tali (tug-of-war) and menyumpit (blowpipe) competitions, and an invitational golf event.
“It’s like starting over after a 12-year hiatus.
“We want it to grow steadily, and we’re open to adding more sports if there’s strong participation and infrastructure support from neighbouring states and provinces,” he said.
