BY NATASHA JEE & ALEXANDRA LORNA
KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has announced a RM500,000 reward for Sarawakian para-powerlifting champion Bonnie Bunyau Gustin in recognition of his recent world record-breaking achievement.
Abang Johari praised Bonnie as a role model, saying his success has brought pride not only to Malaysia but also to Sarawak on the global stage.
“Bonnie is a model that we should look up to. I want to congratulate Bonnie for breaking the world record, bringing pride not only to Malaysia but also to Sarawak on the international stage,” he said.
He said this during the official opening ceremony of the 21st Para Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024 held at the Stadium Perpaduan, Petra Jaya here last night (Sept 22).
Abang Johari expressed hope that the reward would serve as motivation for young para athletes to train harder and achieve more success in the future.
“Apart from that, we have also sent fellow Para SUKMA athletes abroad for training, and this development will continue with the support of the Sarawak government to train those with potential,” he said.
Bonnie, born on June 3, 1999, had win Malaysia’s first gold medal in powerlifting at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.
His recent achievement was by setting a a new world record by lifting 232kg in the men’s below 72kg final at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, securing the second gold medal for the Malaysia.
Earlier, Abang Johari said the Sarawak government placed strong emphasis on the development of sports.
“We worked hard to ensure that all facilities were prepared as best as possible for the athletes participating in the 21st SUKMA,” he said.
He also affirmed Sarawak’s commitment to supporting the development of sports throughout Malaysia.
“Sarawak will join hands in the development of sports throughout Malaysia with the capabilities we have. That is why we have agreed to co-host the SEA Games in 2027,” he said.
Addressing the athletes, Abang Johari also encouraged them to focus on building self-confidence.
“I am confident that the athletes will not strive for victory but also train themselves in self-belief, building self-confidence to face life’s challenges.
“Just like other athletes, I believe Para SUKMA athletes can also achieve great success in their personal development,” he said.
