Abdullah’s wish for the Monsoon Cup
10 May 2006
New Straits Time

KUALA LUMPUR: The Monsoon Cup has to become a major sporting event in the world with the participation of Dame Ellen MacArthur and other renowned sailors.

This is the wish of Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who said organising the annual sailing event in Terengganu was a step in the right direction towards bigger international events.

The Prime Minister, who officially launched the Monsoon Cup to be held at the Heritage Bay Club, off Pulau Duyung, Terengganu, from Nov 29 to Dec 3, described last year’s inaugural event as a tremendous success.

"Having organised a world-class event such as the Monsoon Cup makes organising other events much easier," he said.

"I want the series this year to be a fantastic success. I want it to be better than last year. We want to make it a major sporting event in the world. We want to put it on the map of the sporting world."

The tagline for the race this year is: "You wouldn’t want to miss it."

He hoped the participation of MacArthur, who holds the record for the fastest solo circumnavigation of the world, would give a further fillip to the event.

"I hope not only she but all other renowned sailors will participate in the event. They can compete in the race and also enjoy the sights, sounds and colours of our beautiful country."

He said Malaysia, on its part, would do whatever was necessary for the event’s success.

Abdullah said many side events such as cultural programmes and exhibitions would be organised during and after the Monsoon Cup, including moves to introduce participants and visitors to the beautiful islands off Terengganu.

He said the event was a big boost for the people of Terengganu, who would have never thought such a world-class event would come to their State.

Abdullah congratulated Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh for doing a good job in organising and promoting the event.

He also presented mementos to the main sponsors, including representatives from Telekom Malaysia, ESPN, Air Asia, AmBank, Asia Experience, Astro, Audemars Piguet, BMW, EON Bank, Magnum Bhd, Malaysia Today, Mastercard International, Naza Motors and The Peak.