LABUAN: The Labuan International Sea Challenge (LISC) 2025 ended on a triumphant note on Sunday (April 27), marking one of its best editions yet, with record-breaking achievements in both deep sea fishing and kayaking.
The highlight of the week-long event was the spectacular catch of a rare Black Marlin weighing an astonishing 230 kilogrammes (kg), by caught by Wyner Vilus Voi John@Rayner of Sabah on the first day of the event, which was a new record for the Labuan International Deep Sea Fishing tournament.
A total of 212 participants from various states in the country, Hong Kong and Singapore had set sail from Labuan on April 22, heading towards the rich waters off Layangan Island and the Spratlys Islands, where the prized marlin was landed.
In addition, the International Round Island Kayak Challenge witnessed sibling team Nadzmar Sukarno and Shahdan Sukarno clinching the double kayak category title for an unprecedented third consecutive year, solidifying their legacy in the competition.
Labuan Corporation (LC) chief executive officer Mohd Sukuran Taib expressed pride over the event’s success, highlighting its growing role as an economic-impact sporting event for Labuan.
"We saw hotels recording full occupancy, eateries enjoying non-stop customers, and small-time businesses thriving throughout the event,” he said to Bernama in an interview today, adding the vibrant activity provided vital opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
Mohd Sukuran assured efforts would continue to be made to raise the standards of the LISC, ensuring it remains a key event on the international sea sports calendar and a strong driver for Labuan’s tourism and economy.
