KUCHING: One of Sarawak’s athletes did not qualify for the classification process due to an IQ measurement above the borderline.
Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah explained that to be classified as a person with disabilities (PWD), an IQ must be 75 or below.
During the classification process on Saturday, Fatimah said that the athlete’s IQ was measured at 77, which means that the athlete is not eligible to compete.
“This is particularly disappointing for the athlete and the parents who were hoping he could participate in the SUKMA Games,” she told the media after launching the Para Malaysia Games (SUKMA) Carnival at Dataran Perayaan, Petra Jaya on Sunday.
In response, Fatimah has informed the director of the Sarawak Social Welfare Department to send counsellors to provide support to the athlete and their parents.
“While this time may not work out, they can compete in future events. We will see how it develops.
“One possibility is for them to participate in other events, as the requirements vary for each one,” she added.
Meanwhile, Fatimah reiterated her Ministry’s aim to become a powerhouse for future Para Games, stating that essential preparations are underway to support people with disabilities (PWD).
“At a very early age, we must identify potential talents and provide them with proper exposure and opportunities.
“We need to organise as many competitions as possible and offer the right training and competition engagement to ensure Sarawak can excel in sports for people with disabilities,” she said.
She then highlighted that the Ministry aligns with global efforts to provide more opportunities in sports related to PWD, citing examples such as the ABlympics and Deaflympics.
Also present at the event was Para SUKMA chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Hii Chang Kee.
