Rodziah and Hafiz signing the MoU witnessed by Talib (third left), Yakup (third right) and the main sponsors. 

Representing BDA in the MoU signing ceremony at Parkcity Everly Hotel yesterday was its general manager Rodziah Morshidi while Bintulu Rugby was represented by its president Mohammad Hafizuddin Mohd Radzuan.

The event was witnessed by Assistant Minister of Tourism Datuk Talib Zulpilip and Bintulu Resident Muhamad Yakup Kari.

The idea was mooted by Yakup who had earlier suggested to Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd to help the Bintulu Rugby team become a leading team in the region and to promote sports among youths.

Pertama Ferroalloys then initiated discussion with BDA for the adoption of the field. The MoU will next lead to Pertama Ferroalloys and other sponsors to begin work to improve the playing condition of the field.

Bintulu Rugby was formed in 2010 by rugby enthusiasts who were former rugby players in school and universities and are now working in various sectors in Bintulu.

Since its inception, Bintulu Rugby has participated in many major tournaments in the region.

It also serves to promote the development of rugby through annual rugby clinics among primary and secondary school students.

Bintulu Rugby currently has over 50 competitive and recreational playing members.

Talib, who played rugby while studying in New Zealand, said the sport helps to promote many benefits such as comradeship among the players.

Meanwhile, Rodziah was looking forward to have extended collaboration and partnership in other areas with all parties and sponsors.

“It’s time for Bintulu Rugby to have its own facility and it was no problem for BDA as we are willing to spearheading this together with other rugby sports enthusiasts,” she said.

“Bintulu is a place that we need to work together, to make it vibrant, friendly, green, because of the industries that are being set up unprecedented in any part of the state,” she added.

Calling on members of the public, corporate bodies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to volunteer as the eyes and ears of BDA on the ground, Rodziah also announced that BDA is planning to organise a workshop with such partners to further boost public engagement.