Sibu: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof stated that the federal government is prepared to continue supporting the Sibu International Powerboat Race. He praised the second edition of the race, which has received an increasingly encouraging response, describing it as a proud achievement resulting from the cooperation of all parties involved. He noted that this success presents a challenge to organisers to maintain and improve their performance in the future.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadillah expressed his commitment to assist and support the event as long as he remains in his position, citing its positive impact on sports and tourism. He made these remarks at the closing ceremony of the Sibu International Powerboat Race 2026. Fadillah emphasized that the event not only revitalizes river activities but also has the potential to restore Sibu's position on the powerboat sports map, both in Malaysia and across ASEAN.

Fadillah, a native of Sibu, mentioned that the race holds historical value for the town and could become a major annual event alongside the Regatta to boost local tourism. He also highlighted the need for better infrastructure at Pulau Li Hua Waterfront, including pontoons and a permanent stage, through collaboration between the state government and developers.

He further noted that this year's participation of 251 boats set a Malaysia Book of Records for the most powerboat entries in a single event. Meanwhile, Sibu Division Resident and Divisional Tourism Task Group (DTTG) chairman Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman shared that the event received financial support of RM300,000 from Fadillah and RM150,000 from the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts.

Abang Mohamad Porkan stressed the importance of such support due to the high costs involved in hosting an international event, which necessitates continuous commitment from all parties. He expressed the goal of establishing Sibu as an international powerboat racing hub and river-based tourism destination along Sungai Rajang, a vision encapsulated by the theme "The Awakening of the Mighty Rajang River."

The three-day event, which began last Friday, attracted approximately 20,000 visitors. It was organised by the DTTG in collaboration with the Sibu Powerboat Association and featured nine racing categories across different hull and engine classes.