NIAH: The state government, through Ministry of Tourism, allocated RM50,000 to Sibuti Regatta Committee to finance the event, said Assistant Minister of Tourism Datuk Talib Zulpilip.

“Ministry of Tourism allocated RM50,000 to  support the committee in organising  various events that enhance unity and harmony apart from generating income for small time traders,” Talib said.

He represented Minister of Tourism Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg at  the closing ceremony of Sibuti regatta yesterday.

He said the Tourism Ministry supported events such  as regattas as they boost tourism and create opportunities for the local communities to sell their products during the event.

Besides that, Talib said through regattas the multi-racial community could take part together in the events, fostering unity among the people.

Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Datuk Patinggi Abang Muhammad  Salahuddin and Toh Puan Patinggi Norkiah graced the closing ceremony.

Also present were  member of parliament for   Sibuti Ahmad Lai Bujang,  Assistant Minister in the Chief  Minister’s Department Datuk Mohd Naroden Majais,  Bekenu assemblywoman   Rosey Yunus and assemblyman for Lambir  Ripin Lamat.

Meanwhile, Masyarakat Nelayan Bersatu Sibuti 1 emerged overall champion in the regatta and won the Yang Dipertua Negeri Cup.

Masyarakat Nelayan Bersatu Sibuti 2 finished second while Anak Kuching Hitam  from Brunei took the third placing.