Awang Tengah hopes Para Sukma in Sarawak will produce more world-class paralympic medallist

KUCHING (Sept 22): Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan has expressed hope that the 21st Para Sukma, hosted by Sarawak, will produce more paralympians capable of winning medals at the global stage.

He highlighted the nation’s joy when Malaysia secured two gold medals at the recent Paris 2024 Paralympics, including one by Sarawakian Bonnie Bunyau Gustin in powerlifting.

“We celebrated together when Bonnie won the gold medal and set a new world record.

“And Malaysia also won gold, silver, and bronze medals (in Paralympics 2024). This showed that we have the talent and ability to compete at the global level. We all felt happy, cheered, supported, and some even shed tears of joy.

“Everyone feels proud and this is the passion that exists not only among ordinary athletes but also among these special athletes,” he said at the 21st Para Sukma welcoming dinner last night.

Awang Tengah, representing Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, was joined by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah at the event.

He also mentioned that the Sarawak government, through the Ministry of Women, Children and Community Wellbeing Development, has implemented initiatives for the disabled persons to guide them towards a brighter future and help them develop their talents and abilities.

“Therefore, it is the responsibility of all parties to jointly provide support to this special group because they are a very valuable asset for this country,” he added.

Meanwhile, Fatimah called on Sarawakians to come out and show their support for all para athletes competing in the 21st Sukma, regardless of the their home states.

“Sports go beyond just cheering for the winners; showing support is also an appreciation for those who have given their best for their respective states,” she said.