Letter from Dr Goh Lim Thye, senior lecturer, Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya
SANDAKAN : Fiji ’s Nationwide Nadi 7s emerged champions at the Borneo Sevens , one of Asia’s premier rugby sevens tournaments, after defeating Kazakhstan 38-5 in the men’s Cup final. They were in control throughout the two-day competition this past weekend at the Eagles Rugby Club Stadium here, going unbeaten from the pool stages to the final.
Nadi, powered by a strong lineup, had earlier thrashed Uzbekistan 44-0 in the semi-finals, while Kazakhstan edged Eagles Rugby Club 24-19 to book their place in the decider. Fiji international Suluka Tunaka once again stood out, thrilling fans with his pace and sharp offloading throughout the tournament."We were very confident from the start because we prepared well. It was a long journey from home, so we came here to win and go back with the trophy," he said."They were a very good side – big, strong and well prepared. It was not an easy win,” he added, expressing hope of returning next year. In the women’s competition, home favourites Borneo Flyers gave the Sandakan crowd plenty to cheer about, beating Uzbekistan 19-5 in the final.Team captain Abby Lockhart of New Zealand said the win meant even more given the challenge of assembling the team within a week, with the players quickly finding their rhythm. "We’re really proud. We only came together in a short time, but the bonds we built helped us get the result.Louisa Tubailagi played a key role in the Flyers’ run, combining speed and power with clinical finishing. Meanwhile, Malaysia’s Bunga Raya Sevens development squad provided one of the tournament’s standout stories by lifting the men’s Plate. They beat Fizzpapa Belgium Rugby 7s 21-10 in the final after overcoming DKI Jakarta 31-12 in the semi-finals, while Fizzpapa had defeated the Malaysian Universities side 33-7. The young Malaysian side bounced back strongly after a tough start, with Sabah’s Leobrenwee Ferin emerging as one of their standout performers. Eagles Rugby Club president Velayuthan Tan said the tournament’s focus remains on developing young players. "It’s not about showing off. It’s about giving young players the chance to compete with some of the best and improve themselves," he said."Millions of dollars have been pumped into the tournament over the years, and we will continue doing that," he added. Asia Rugby deputy president Terence Khoo described the tournament as one of the region’s standout competitions, highlighting its role in nurturing young talent. "It gives young developing athletes the opportunity to play with some of the top athletes in the world. They get to see what is possible and aspire to be like their heroes," he said. "There is an opportunity to combine green tourism with this tournament, where teams can experience the natural beauty and environment of Sabah," he added. He noted that with stronger support and organisation, the tournament could grow even further in the region. The 2026 edition featured 14 teams from eight countries and drew a packed crowd, with matches also broadcast on social media and Astro Sports Plus. Branded as"The Greenest 7s in the World", the tournament continues to combine high-level rugby with a strong focus on sustainability, youth development and community engagement.Rugby-Former England captain Lawes comes out of international retirement
Sabah Sandakan Rugby Sevens Borneo Sevens Fiji Nadi 7S Men's Champions Kazakhstan Borneo Flyers Women's Champions Bunga Raya Sevens Development Squad Asia Rugby Eco Tourism
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