KUCHING – With the Sarawak Tennis Association (SLTA) receiving the “Gold Recognition Award” (Gold Recognition Award) from the Asian Tennis Federation (ATF), Sarawak continues to strengthen its position on the international sports stage.
Sarawak Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Hamzah said that this internationally renowned recognition reflects the high professionalism, commitment and strong ability of the Sarawak Tennis Association in continuously hosting international tennis events year after year.
He said the gold certification also solidifies Sarawak’s reputation as an international sports destination, particularly tennis, and strengthens the confidence of world sports bodies in the state’s ability to host international events.
“Receiving this award is not easy as it is signed by the President of the Asian Tennis Federation and is only awarded to organizations that meet international standards in event management, facilities, operations and athlete experience. I would like to express my gratitude to Dato Patrick Liew Chin Joon, Chairman of the Sarawak Tennis Association, and the entire team of the association for their continued commitment and dedication to developing tennis in Sarawak, which has enabled the association to successfully gain international recognition that is rarely achieved by local associations.”
He said this at a press conference on the 2026 Sarawak Tennis Calendar and Asian Tennis Federation Awards on Monday.
He said Sarawak’s ability to host world-class sporting events continues to be demonstrated, and the Sarawak Tennis Association will host four consecutive international tennis tournaments for 20 consecutive days between April and May next year.
Upcoming events include the 44th Sarawak Prime Minister’s Cup (ITF World Tennis Tour Junior J300 Category), the World Chinese Tennis Federation (WCTF) competition, the ITF World Junior Team (U14) Men’s Asian/Oceania Qualifiers, and the ITF World Junior Team (U14) Women’s Asian/Oceania Qualifiers.
“This type of long-term, continuous hosting of events is rare at the international level and reflects the high level of organizational ability and commitment of the Sand Tennis Association. Hosting four international tournaments without long breaks not only tests logistics and management capabilities, but also demonstrates the confidence of international tennis institutions in Sarawak in terms of facilities, technical expertise and professional level.”
He added that Sarawak’s success in becoming one of the first host cities for international tournaments has also led to its selection as one of the tennis regions for the Eastern Games (SUKAN SEA), further consolidating the development of grassroots tennis talent.
