KUCHING – A delegation from the United Professional Council (UPC), led by the council’s chairperson Laura Yiin, recently visited Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian. Their meeting served to update the Deputy Premier on developments in this year’s Inter-Professional Games and to deliver a formal invitation for him to attend the closing gala on 7 November.
Comprising 11 distinct professional organizations, UPC’s representatives included key figures such as Jeremy Lu of the Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM), Nigel Lim from the Institute of Chemistry Malaysia (IKM), Lau Meng Lin of the Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP), Jackson Lim of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA), Rudy Azli Othman from the Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia Sarawak Chapter (PAMSC), Yii Huong Swee of the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM), Alan Bong from the Advocates Association of Sarawak (AAS), and Dr. Samuel Ting of the Sarawak Pharmaceutical Society (SPS).
Now in its tenth edition, the Inter-Professional Games kicked off in July and span multiple months. This year’s schedule features an expanded roster of sports—ranging beyond darts, futsal, golf, tenpin bowling, and badminton—to now include pickleball, volleyball, basketball, and e-sports.
The Deputy Premier received the Datuk Amar Prof. Sim Kui Hian Trophy from Dr. Samuel Ting in recognition of his steadfast support for Sarawak’s professional fraternity. In the course of the visit, Dr. Sim observed the rising popularity of pickleball among both youth and professionals alike. He reiterated his commitment to strengthening the professional community and articulated a vision of attracting world-class Sarawakians back to contribute toward the state’s advancement.
Highlighting Sarawak’s progress, Dr. Sim shared stories of expatriate Sarawakians returning home with their families—an ode to the state’s growing appeal. “We want a Sarawak where people don’t just ask how rich it is, but how forward-thinking and value-driven it is,” he said, underscoring a vision where innovation and strong values define the state’s identity.
He also stressed the importance of preserving Sarawak’s constitutional entitlements, particularly in health and education. These domains, he noted, involve a broad spectrum of professionals—from medical practitioners and pharmacists in health to educators and specialists in education—thus reinforcing the importance of professional partnerships.
Spanning three months and featuring multiple competitions, the Inter-Professional Games aim to foster bonds, teamwork, and camaraderie throughout Sarawak’s professional community. The Grand Closing Dinner in November will serve as a hallmark of unity and collaborative achievement.
