Yap confident Sarawak chess team will deliver

KOTA SAMARAHAN: Chess assistant de chef mission (ACDM) Wilfred Yap Yau Sin is optimistic of the Sarawak chess squad’s performance at the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) during his visit to the venue.

Arriving early in the morning, Yap stressed the importance of acclimatisation and maintaining a positive mindset among the athletes.

The Kota Sentosa assemblyman said it is essential to ensure that athletes are not nervous and are prepared to give their best.

“To instil a fighting spirit, I encouraged the team to chant ‘Agi Hidup, Agi Ngelaban’,  because I think, that’s the fighting spirit that every Sarawakian athlete should have,” he told the New Sarawak Tribune when met during the first day of the tournament at Dewan Jubli Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) here here today.

Yap acknowledged the primary goal of the competition, saying, “Whether we win or lose, the primary motive is to win. But most importantly, we need to do our best to bring honour to Sarawak.”

He said he was told by the coach and team manager  that they are aiming for at least one gold medal, with hopes for an even better outcome.

While today is not a prize-giving day, Yap plans to stay involved throughout the event.

“I think the facility is very good, and that’s another way of Sarawak showing its hospitality to the whole of Malaysia,” he noted.

He commended the state’s efforts under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, specifically highlighting the Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) for its focus on promoting social inclusivity.

Yap shared positive feedback from competitors and delegates from Malaya, who praised the friendliness and hospitality of the Sarawakian people.

“I hope that this SUKMA XXI will be the showcase and example to the rest of Malaysia that Sarawak ‘boleh’, Malaysia ‘boleh’,” he said.

Yap (2nd left) observing the chess venue before the tournament.