MTBC needs more support

09/07/2003

THE Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) yesterday unveiled the 15th
World Championships Logo at a leading hotel in Kuala Lumpur, but they are
still off the RM1.6 million budget to host the event.
The World Championships, on Sept 9-20, has only netted about RM900,000
with the bulk coming from the Sports Ministry.
MTBC president Datuk P.S Nathan, while grateful that the Sports Ministry
has given them strong backing, was at a lost for words on why sponsors
have been keeping away from the prestigious event.
"Bowling has never failed to return from a tournament without a medal,
and we have produced world champions over the years, but still, we are are
finding it hard to get sponsors," said Nathan after launching the logo.
Deputy Sports Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat, who officiated yesterday's
function, said: "Malaysian bowlers have continuously brought glory to the
country over the years, winning numerous medals at national, Asian and
international tournaments.
"I am sure that they will continue to make us proud in the World
Championship, especially since they will be holding court amidst their own
fans," said Ong.
Nathan said the main objective of bidding, and winning the right to host
the World Championships was not to break even, but to make money for MTBC
grassroots development.
"We had some strong sponsors before the Iraq War and the SARS (Severe
Acute Respiratory Syndrome) broke out. Some of them kept away after
recording some losses in the last few months.
"We are still working with a few sponsors, and hopefully, we will not
only break even, but also fill the MTBC coffers for future development
programmes," said Nathan.
The World Championships will see the participation of at least 2,000
foreign bowlers, supporters and officials from over 65 countries.
At the last World Championships four years ago in Abu Dhabi, 73
countries confirmed their entries but only 67 turned up.
The World Championships will be held at two venues. The men's event will
be held at the 48-lane Sunway Pyramid Megalanes and the 32-lane Ampang
Superbowl in Summit, Subang Jaya will host the women's event.
(END)