Sports tourism is one of the spin-offs from the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2022 currently underway in Ipoh.
This is evident with the presence of two groups of parents coming to Ipoh all the way from South Africa whose sons are playing in the tournament here.
Another hockey fan is from Pakistan, Muhammad Hanif from Lahore and travelled all the way to Ipoh to support his team.
Meanwhile, South African parents, Kotie and Lara van Tonder came to see their son representing South Africa in the SAS Cup 2022. Their son, Jacques Michiel Van Tonder is among the first team players in the team.
The other parent is David and Jane Jarvis whse son Peter John Jarvis took to the field.
“Both our boys are friends from their university days and have represented South Africa in the junior team. Now, they are representing the senior team,” said Kotie.
Kotie also added that both the players have just earned their 2nd cap for representing their country.
“This is our first trip to Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh respectively. To-date, we have had the chance to try the local food and other dishes which we have taken a liking to.
“We are staying at the WEIL Hotel here and also had the chance to try nasi lemak. We also have to compliment the staff at the hotel and also people we have met who are friendly and very helpful,” he added.
Meanwhile Hanif from Pakistan is in the sports business too.
“We manufacture hockey sticks under the brand “Diamond” and export them to other countries. I have been travelling to support Pakistan since 2018.
“I also find it very convenient to travel from place to place in Ipoh city and comfortable with local food,” he said.
In the meantime, other than the players, there are also other officials from several countries down in Ipoh to take part in the competition.
Surely, it will benefit the local food & beverage, transport and other stakeholders in the tourism industry.
Meanwhile, players and team officials are staying at the Impiana Hotel Ipoh which has been the official hotel since the inception of the SAS Cup.