| Promote kite-flying to the world Minister says given its rich history it could well enhance global peace and harmony BINTULU: Kite-flying, a traditional sport that has developed rapidly into an art of precision should be aggressively promoted by world communities including those in Sarawak.Urban Development and Tourism Minister Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh who said this added that since kite making and flying were associated with human civilisation, depicting its rich heritage with no age limit, it could become one of the most effective tools in enhancing peace and harmony in the world.
Wong was representing Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud at a dinner to mark the closing of the Third International Borneo Kite Festival 2007 at Parkcity Everly hotel on Sunday night.
He said the festival, held in conjunction with the 50th Independence of Malaysia, was an opportune time to showcase the unity and harmony that prevailed in Malaysia.
He commended Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) for spearheading efforts in organising the festival, which was fast gaining popularity locally and internationally, and had put Bintulu on the world tourism map.
Wong said much needed to be done to further promote the festival. That included creating a website to enable participants from some 200 nations in the world to register online.
Equally important would be local participation especially from Sarawak, he added.
He said the State government strongly supported the improvement of air connectivity to Bintulu to ease travel, especially for tourists.
Later Wong together with Jepak assemblyman Datuk Talip Zulpilip and BDA deputy chairman Dato Sri Celestine Ujang Jilan handed over prizes to the winners under 13 categories of the competition.
Kelantan was adjudged overall champion and received the challenge trophy. The Rokkaku International competition was won by Mohamad Hamzah Jumaat of Malaysia while second place went to Bakar Daud of Brunei and third place to Sapriyanto of Indonesia.
Ahmad Zaidi Basri of Sarawak C did the State proud when he won in the Wau Bulan category.
A total of 138 participants from 15 countries took part in the nine-day festival held at Bintulu Old Airport since Aug 18, ending Aug 26.
Among those present were BDA general manager Mohidin Ishak and Resident Dr Razali Abon. Published by:
The Borneo Post
28 August 2007 | 
