Bandar Seri Begawan - Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Hazair bin Hj Abdullah has reassured the Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation that the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) will continue to be a partner in developing the level of cycling competitiveness.

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports said this at Jerudong Park and Polo Club last night during a farewell dinner for the 19 teams and officials who participated in the Brunei-Butra Heidelberg Cement Tour De Brunei 2012.

The minister expressed hopes the Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation will take full advantage of the chance to accumulate as much experience as possible in staging a UCI-sanctioned event in the country, and also encourage the full development of our young cyclists to the level of competition standards.

Speaking on the benefits of the sport, he said, "We all know the value of sports in terms of improving health, promoting a balanced and active lifestyle, tackling obesity, encouraging teamwork and giving young people confidence and a sense of belonging, thus diverting them from social ills such as drug abuse and crime."

He also expressed his gratitude to the main sponsor, Butra HeidelbergCement Sdn Bhd, for its generosity and role in sponsoring the event.

"Their involvement in organising this event is a good example of public-private partnership in staging sport events in the country I hope Butra Heidelberg Cement Sdn Bhd will continue to be the main sponsor for the next series of Tour De Brunei," he added. .

The minister later congratulated the winners, before expressing- hopes they would return to defend their titles at the next series of the competition.

Meanwhile, Haji Rosli bin Haji Mohiddin, the President of Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation cum co-chairman of the Brunei-Butra HeidelbergCement Tour De Brunei 2012, in a speech, conveyed his gratitude and appreciation to everyone involved in making the event a success after days of tireless contribution and months of preparation.