KUCHING: The Ministry of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development has suggested the establishment of a dedicated Sports Development Unit for Persons with Disabilities (OKU).
Its Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the unit would be placed under the Ministry’s purview.
“The establishment of the unit is so we can focus and make thorough preparations for sports development and also for the competitions the para athletes will participate in,” she said.
She said this during the incentive presentation ceremony for Sarawak’s Para Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024 contingent held at a hotel here today (Oct 7).
Fatimah added there must be aggressive and collaborative talent identification and development programmes for para athletes.
“We know that our closest competitors are very active in scouting for new talents. So we cannot afford to fall behind.
“We need to be aggressive and collaborate with specific institutions and departments for talent identification and development,” she added.
She also mentioned that attention must be given to coaches and for this purpose, professional development and updated sports science training courses will be carried out.
“Additionally, it is also important to continue exposure programmes at the national and international levels for para athletes and coaches,” she said.
At the same time, Fatimah, who is also the Special Olympics Sarawak chairperson, said the Special Olympics State Games will be held in Kuching next year.
“The Special Olympics Malaysia committee has shown interest in having Sarawak host the National Special Olympics Games 2025.
“But I told them I have to check with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg first, and if he agrees, then it can be hosted in the state,” she said.
She added learning from experience in hosting the 21st Para SUKMA, there is a need to make improvements, especially in the Sports Village and competition venues, ensuring they are disability-friendly.
“In the long term, there is a need for upgrades to Sarawak’s buildings and its ordinances,” she said.
