Special events at Bintulu

BINTULU: ‘Temuai Sri Bujang’, owned by Abok Sekalai Foundation, was crowned the champion in the ‘perahu temuai’ Chief Minister’s Cup men’s 30 paddlers category in the second day of Bintulu Regatta 2012 at Kemena River yesterday.

While ‘Mayang Sari’, owned by Hadri Nahrawi, and another boat belonging to Abok Sekalai Foundation, ‘Nyitar Api’, came
in second and third respectively.

Assistant Minister of Tourism and Heritage Datuk Talib Zulpilip, on behalf of Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, officiated at the
opening and prize giving ceremony.

A total 3,245 participants took part in 34 events, including a powerboat category.

Paddlers from as far as Belaga, Kapit, Bekenu, Limbang, Marudi, Sebauh and Tatau participated in the three-day event.

According to Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) deputy chairman Dato Sri Celestine Ujang Jilan, 150 safety and technical officials and 220 helpers were involved in the preparation to ensure the success of Bintulu Regatta 2012.

He said 15 government agencies were involved and 32 boats and vessels for logistic purposes were dispatched.

“There is also a positive response from the local traders with 250 lots set up to welcome visitors,” said Ujang at the opening ceremony.

Bintulu Regatta was last held in 2008, and he said this year’s regatta was timely with all the infrastructure in place like Bintulu Promenade.

“The Bintulu Promenade is uniquely built with the backdrop of Kemena River and South China Sea.

“We have a unique waterfront among all the towns in Malaysia, with river and sea frontages. One of its kinds ever built so we want to make full use of this promenade for activities,” he said.

He pointed out that the event had attracted outsiders to come and witness the excitement and beautiful scenery of Bintulu town.

This year’s regatta is one of the finest to held so far because of the 2.2km distance that must be covered by the competing paddlers whose skills, endurance and speed are well tested, he said.

Also present were Deputy Resident (Development) Sirai Daha and BDA general manager DatuMohidin Ishak .