Sarawak Para Sukma contingent eyes greater heights, says Fatimah

KUCHING: Following Sarawak’s strong performance in the ongoing 21st Para Malaysia Games (Para Sukma XXI) 2024, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah expressed that the contingent still has more to achieve.

The Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development stressed this, urging all athletes to stay focused to secure the overall championship in the latest edition of the Games.

She shared her thoughts on the state’s contingent’s performance as of 4.12pm, today (Sept 24), with Sarawak securing 33 gold, 16 silver and 19 bronze medals.

“Each sport we participate in has its own target. Para powerlifting has its goals, and para swimming has its objectives to achieve,” she said.

“Maybe as the days go on, we will be able to assess how our contingent has performed,” she added.

Fatimah made these remarks when speaking to reporters after attending the para powerlifting event, held at the Multipurpose Hall of the Youth and Sports Department here.

Meanwhile, she noted the success of Bryan Junency Gustin, who won two gold medals in the 88kg and below category (Best Lift and Top Lift).

She attributed his achievements not only to his hard work and determination but also to the unwavering support of his family and coaches.

“We are very thankful that he managed to break both the Para Sukma and national records by lifting 191kg,” she said.

“They all work hard together, and the bond with the athletes is very close. I believe, with this unity and our targets, God willing, we will achieve our goals,” she added.

Bryan’s coach Jamil Adam shared that the team has set a goal for Bryan to compete in the upcoming Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.

“But first, we want him to succeed in other sports events, such as the 2027 SEA Games and other world championships,” Jamil said. “With his current potential, God willing, we will work very hard to help him reach the highest level.”

Also present at the event were Deputy Minister Datuk Mohamad Razi Sitam, Tupong assemblyman Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman and other distinguished guests.