Para Sukma talents to be further developed for world stage

Awang Tengah receiving a souvenir from Chef the Mission of Sabah (second right) during the exchange of souvenir ceremony witnessed by Fatimah (right) and Yeoh (left).

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Sept 21: Identified talents from Para Sukma XXI Sarawak 2024 will have their sports potential further developed to produce athletes capable of competing at higher levels in the future.

Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Sarawak Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah emphasised that this effort is crucial to ensuring Malaysia maintains a strong talent pool for international events.

“Para Sukma serves as a vital platform for discovering new sports talents among athletes with disabilities (OKU) from each state in Malaysia.

“We see sports not only as a way to produce athletes but also as a means to empower individuals with disabilities, instilling confidence and dignity. They are differently abled despite their disabilities,” she said in her speech text during the Para Sukma XXI Sarawak 2024 banquet at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre tonight.

The event was officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, representing Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Also in attendance was Malaysia Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh.

Themed ‘Semangat Perpaduan Membara’ (Igniting the Spirit of Unity), Fatimah highlighted that the event reflects how sports can unite Malaysia’s diverse communities.

“From Para Sukma’s perspective, the spirit of unity extends beyond just competition. It represents society’s readiness to embrace the differences of para-athletes and acknowledges that individuals with disabilities are fully capable of excelling in competitive sports,” she said.

She added that Para Sukma is also an opportunity to challenge the misconception that parasports are a minor field with limited recognition.

Para Sukma 2024 welcomes 1,275 para athletes and 719 technical officers across ten sports, with 328 events being contested.

Fatimah urged more Sarawakians to come out and support the athletes, regardless of which state they come from.

“It’s not just about cheering for the winners. Your support shows appreciation for those who have given their all for their states. Win or lose, these athletes remain heroes for their respective states,” she concluded. — DayakDaily