Sarawakians hail historic Sukma XXI victory

KUCHING (Aug 26): The crowning of the Sarawak contingent as Sukma XXI champions had evoked deep pride and joy among citizens of the state.

Those interviewed by The Borneo Post yesterday said the achievements of the athletes were testament to their years of hard work, dedication and unyielding spirit.

Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals president Datin Dona Drury-Wee expressed the collective pride of Sarawakians, saying ‘the victory is a great achievement’.

“It is not something that happened overnight, but the culmination of years of training and hard work that has reaped the ultimate reward. All Sarawakians are truly proud of what our athletes have achieved, and we raise our voices in unison in congratulating all the winners.

“At the same time, we encourage those who didn’t make it to learn from their experience and do better next time,” she said.

Jilin Itar, who is the private secretary to the Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, said the victory regained Sarawak’s status as one of the regions capable of producing athletes who can represent the country at the international level.

He said the victory, which aligns with this year’s Sukma theme ‘Bersukan Untuk Perpaduan’ (Sports for Unity), is a reflection of the state’s broader aspirations for harmony and human development.

“The value of each gold medal is immense, and the excitement of both the opening and closing ceremonies reflects the Sarawak government’s vision of digital administration, alongside the inclusion of our rich cultural heritage,” he said.

For housewife Munira Adzlan, 38, Sarawak emerging as Sukma overall champions was a ‘dream come true’ for her, and hoped the state would continue to win future editions of the Games.

“I’m so grateful and proud that Sarawak is champion again after 30 years. The sportsmanship of our young athletes is truly strong, and I hope that in Sukma 2026 in Selangor, Sarawak will be champions once again,” she said.

Dorathy Santa Michael, a 34-year-old teacher, sees this victory as a beacon of hope for the future of sports in the state.

She highlighted the importance of up-to-date school facilities in assisting athletes’ training, as well as the support of their parents.

“I’m proud to see Sarawak become champions while there is also a changing understanding among the younger generation about sports. Hopefully, Sarawak’s achievement will encourage students to continue their interest in sports.”

Meanwhile, private sector employee Tien Geok Sia, 42, was unsurprised by Sarawak’s achievement as the athletes ‘already looked strong in martial arts’.

“We scored in a majority of the martial arts events, and as a martial arts fan, that was beautiful to see,” he said.

For Kota Samarahan Municipal Council chairman Dato Peter Minos, he said he said ‘everyone went wild with joy’ when it was confirmed that Sarawak had emerged overall Sukma champions.

“As Sarawak celebrates this remarkable victory, the state looks forward with renewed confidence and ambition. No longer will our friends in Peninsular Malaysia look down on Sarawak and its citizens.

“The success at Sukma XXI is more than just a win in sports; it is a symbol of unity, resilience, and the boundless potential of Sarawakians.

“The future is bright, and Sarawak is ready to take on new challenges with the same determination and spirit that led to this historic triumph,” he said.

Sarawak ended a 30-year wait to be crowned Sukma champions after securing 76 gold, 54 silver, and 69 bronze, overcoming the Federal Territories who finished with 75 gold, 66 silver and 72 bronze in a nail-biting finish on the final day of the Games.