Abdul Karim lauds diver Kimberly Bong’s stellar career

KUCHING: Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has commended Sarawak-born diver Kimberly Bong for her exceptional career and her decision to retire at its peak.

Speaking at a press conference here today (May 24), he praised Kimberly’s achievements and her awareness to conclude her athletic journey at the right time.

“She has gone very far, even becoming a SEA Games gold medallist. She has been in the field for the last 15 years. For athletes, just like any other career, there must be an end. You cannot be there forever,” he said.

“I think it’s good to see somebody like that who knows their peak, the time when they are best as an athlete, has ended.”

Abdul Karim highlighted Kimberly’s contributions to national service and expressed hope for more athletes like her to emerge, not just in diving but across other sports.

He also noted that Kimberly plans to continue her studies and pursue a degree, potentially transitioning to a civilian role such as coaching.

“I look up to athletes like that. We are very thankful for what she has done, contributing to the good name of Sarawak as well as Malaysia,” he added.

Furthermore, Abdul Karim assured that his ministry, through the Sarawak Sports Corporation, will continue to develop new athletes to uphold the legacy of those who have brought glory to Malaysia and Sarawak.

“This will continue indefinitely. That is why Sarawak places a lot of focus on sports and is willing to host the 2024 Malaysia Games (Sukma). We even created our own SUKSA (Sukan Sarawak), and we might even host or cohost the SEA (Southeast Asian) Games. We have already expressed our interest to Kuala Lumpur.”

Kimberly announced her retirement on social media on Monday (May 20), stating she is moving on to another chapter of her life.

She had a memorable season last year, claiming her first individual SEA Games gold medal in the women’s 3m springboard competition in Cambodia.

She also ended Malaysia’s 13-year wait for a diving medal at the World University Games by clinching a silver medal in the women’s 3m springboard synchro event with Ong Ker Ying in Chengdu, China, in August.

She showed promise early in her career, placing fourth in the Olympic Youth Games in Argentina in 2018. However, her career progression was hindered by shoulder and hip injuries.