KOTA KINABALU: Embracing the realm of extreme sports, Gelsoft has made its indelible mark in Sabah, receiving resounding support from Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Darell Leiking.
In a remarkable event hosted at the Marriott Hotel, Darell Leiking presided over the inauguration of Gelsoft Sabah and the pivotal signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Sabah and Australia’s Gelsoft blaster. This partnership is poised to revolutionize the production and distribution of gel blasters.
Darell Leiking’s endorsement was evident as he expressed his enthusiasm through a gesture of approval while witnessing George Tann Junior and Siva Sara, representatives of Sabah Gelsoft Association and Gelsoft Australia respectively, exchange documents after the MoU signing ceremony.
Gel, a riveting team-based shooting sport, has rapidly supplanted paintball due to its electrifying competitiveness. This sensation has swept the globe, captivating thrill-seekers and those addicted to an adrenaline rush.
Speaking later, Darell Leiking commended the dynamic collaboration between Sabah and Australia in the realm of Gelsoft. He lauded its dual effect of democratizing the sport and potentially transforming Sabah into a Gelsoft blaster exporter. The Gelsoft blaster, a battery-operated rifle used by players, could soon be manufactured locally, pending legal considerations with law enforcement.
“The extraordinary nature of this sport holds immense promise. The association is diligently working to secure government approval for local Gelsoft blaster production,” Darell Leiking shared. “Once this vision materializes, not only will we cater to local players, but we will also have the chance to export our blasters. Of course, adhering to all regulatory procedures is paramount,” he added, firmly endorsing Gelsoft Sabah Association’s initiative.
Meanwhile, George Tann Junior revealed a thriving Gelsoft community in Sabah, comprising 35 registered teams and an impressive membership exceeding 1,000 across the state. This number is poised for exponential growth upon the commencement of local blaster and gel ball production.
Elaborating on their expansion plans, George divulged intentions to establish a manufacturing facility for Gelsoft blasters and gel balls in nearby Penampang. This venture, besides driving economic growth, will offer valuable employment prospects to local youth.
Furthermore, George posited that the manufacturing hub would foster an environment conducive to sport adoption. The accessible production of equipment is anticipated to fuel a surge in the sport’s popularity.