Athletes to be lavishly rewarded

BY NURA V LORNA & ​​NEVILLE TIMOTHY SANDERS

KUCHING: Host state Sarawak will reward its medalists in the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) XXI with handsome incentives of RM15,000 for gold, RM5,000 for silver, and RM3,000 for bronze.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that the incentives would also extend to Para SUKMA athletes.

“I hope Datuk Karim’s target of 70 gold medals can be met,” he said, referring to Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

He said this during a press conference after attending the Taekwondo final match at Stadium Perpaduan today (Aug 16).

Sarawak is currently leading the medal tally with seven gold, four silvers, and five bronzes.

Abang Johari said the rewards aimed to motivate athletes and turn sports into a viable career path.

“Sports can be a career, and when athletes reach higher levels, even on the international stage, they carry the name of Sarawak with them, just like Datuk Pandelela Rinong Pamg and Bonnie Bunyau Gustin,” he said.

“I hope we can produce more world-class athletes like Pandelela. This can become their career. Companies like Petchem and Petronas can also provide support.”

Abang Johari said the state government prioritised sports alongside education and encouraged youth participation.