SEBUYAU – Local fisherman Bolhi Ali from Kampung Sungai Ladong has triumphed as the overall champion in the Jom Mecancing competition held as part of the Sebuyau Regatta 2025, which took place at the Sebuyau Muara Bank on Sunday.
He secured victory by catching a fish weighing 1.465 kg, outperforming 192 other participants. For this achievement, Bolhi received RM 8,000 in cash, a trophy and a certificate.
In second place was Azahar Idi, whose catch of 408 g (shrimp) earned him RM 3,000, a trophy and a certificate. The third spot went to Abang Julaihi Abang Sidek, who landed a catch of 360 g, receiving RM 1,000, a trophy and a certificate.
Participants ranking from fourth to fortieth were also recognised with consolation prizes, comprising cash awards, trophies and certificates to acknowledge their participation.
The prize-giving ceremony was officiated by Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications of Sarawak and Sebuyau State Assemblyman (ADUN).
Organisers believe events such as the Jom Mecancing programme do more than stimulate interest in angling, they also fortify community ties and position the estuary banks of Sebuyau as appealing leisure destinations.
Also present at the event were the Sebuyau District Officer, Ayuradiman Bujang (Chairman of the Sebuyau Regatta Committee), the chairman of the Melor Buyong Fishing Competition organisers, Asli Yahya (Sebuyau District Malay Fisherman), and Merum Babu (Sebuyau District Iban Fisherman).
This fishing contest at the regatta complements wider efforts in Sarawak to harness traditional events for tourism and local economic growth.
The state government has shown interest in building a regatta circuit to capitalise on cultural and recreational maritime activities.