SIBU: A school teacher, Charles Luanga Uyong stole the limelight at the Melayu Club Hall Kpg Nyabor (MUC) here on Saturday night after he emerged as the overall champion of Mr Sibu 2023 Bodybuilding Championship organised by Sibu Division Bodybuilding and Weightlifting Association.
His close rivals were Anthony Teble and Gadaffi Arafat Zulkasisi who took the second and third placings respectively in the bodybuilding category.
Charles, 36, said he was overjoyed for winning the Mr Sibu title and that he often took part in tournaments in the peninsula before as he was working there.
He attributed his victory to sheer hard work all this while.
“I feel very fortunate to be given this kind of appreciation for all the tireless efforts I have made that have finally yielded results in my own homeland.
Making his debut in 2012 at age 26, he said his last competition was in 2019 for the Mr KL championship.
Charles will contest for Mr Sarawak 2023 championship in Kuching on July 1.
The event was declared open by Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Michael Tiang Ming Tee.
In his opening remarks, he pointed out bodybuilding teaches that success is earned through sweat, perseverance, and countless amount of hard work.
“Bodybuilding is not an individual success, but behind every individual success is a community of people who recognise each other’s potential to achieve extraordinary things in life.
“And in embracing each other’s greatness, you take steps to uplifting and inspiring each other. Yes, we are in competition, but competition aside, there is a lot of guidance, encouragement, knowledge sharing and so on.
“I believe this is how bodybuilding in this state can keep moving forward and improve along the way,” he stated.
The Pelawan assembyman also acknowledged that the bodybuilding industry is not without its challenges.
However, he said, whatever challenges are faced, with discipline and commitment, this industry will continue to grow.
