TAMBUNAN: The Tambunan Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) Chief, Dato’ Dr. Victor P. Paut, is bent on implementing initiatives aimed at upgrading facilities and enhancing the sports performance of this district to a higher level.
He said that this effort is intended to provide a better, safer, and more conducive sports environment for everyone, especially the youth.
“With God’s permission, over time, we will upgrade or build new facilities for the comfort and advancement of sports for the younger generation,” he said.
He made these remarks when officiating the DVPP Cup Football Championship Series 2 at the Tambunan Sports Complex, near here, on Sunday.
Also present was the organising chairman, Daniel Dilliam.
Dr. Victor expressed his deep concern for the development of sports and the talents present in Tambunan.
As a result, he has sponsored several talented athletes in various sports to compete and represent the Tambunan District.
Dr. Victor also mentioned that as a native of Tambunan, he has a grand vision to see Tambunan become a region that produces talented sports athletes capable of competing at the state, national, and international levels.
He cited the legendary football player from Tambunan, Paulus Jumit, who once served as an icon of football from this area.
“I aspire to see Tambunan produce more talented football players like Paulus Jumit,” he added.
Dr Victor emphasised that this dream is not just a fantasy, asserting it can become a reality ‘if we all unite, provide opportunities for the youth, support local sports programs, and continue to build a structured sports development ecosystem.’
“I will keep working to improve sports facilities in this area as long as I have the trust of the community.
“This is not an empty promise. As evidence, the improvements made to the football fields in Kampung Sunsuron and Kampung Tombotuon are among the initiatives I have already implemented.
“And I will not stop there. Slowly but surely, we will also pay attention to other sports such as futsal, badminton, volleyball, and more,” he said.
Regarding the tournament, Dr. Victor stated that it is not merely a competition but a platform to foster sportsmanship, strengthen cooperation, and instill noble values such as discipline, respect, and teamwork.
Dr. Victor mentioned that to inspire and appreciate the efforts of the players, he has increased the prize money compared to last year.
The prize for the champion of the DVPP Cup Series 2 has been raised to RM15,000 for the second series compared to RM3,500 for the first series. The second place will take home RM5,000, while the third place will receive RM3,000.
Not only that, but a variety of surprise gifts are also provided, including a motorcycle, two LCD TVs, 50 bags of rice, and much more, all given for free, without any payment whatsoever.
“This is a sign of my support for the spirit of the participants and sports fans, and I want this tournament to be not just a competition but also a community celebration.
“It is not impossible that next year there will be more surprises waiting for participants and sports fans,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Victor hopes that all players competing in the finals will deliver their best performance. Compete with a spirit of sportsmanship, honesty, and ethics.
“Winning or losing is part of the competition, but personal values and dignity are everything,” he said.
He also encourages the sports fans present to demonstrate a mature, positive attitude and respect for all parties involved.
“The beauty of sports lies not just in the goals scored, but in the spirit and values we carry together,” he said.
