KUCHING: Sarawak’s para powerlifting athletes have exceeded expectations with a remarkable improvement in performance with 13 gold medals, 1 silver and 4 bronze medals.
Para powerlifting head coach Jamil Adam stated that the 13 gold medals won by the Sarawak contingent are an achievement in themselves.
“I see the achievement of the Sarawak contingent as exceeding the expectations we set.
“Additionally, I have observed a drastic improvement among the athletes and in the programme itself; they performed exceptionally well here,” he told reporters at the Sarawak State Youth and Sports Complex on Friday (Sept 27).
He praised the athletes for their incredible performances, noting that some even broke national and local records.
Jamil added that the impressive results at the Para SUKMA indicate that the athletes have the potential to excel at the ASEAN Para Games 2026 in Thailand.
“There is an opportunity for us to shine on the international stage.
“We need to ensure that the athletes who performed well here are well taken care of, exposed to competitive events, and considered for the national programme for higher-level competitions,” he said.
He also credited the athletes for their discipline, progress, and commitment to the programme, which are key foundations for their success.
Also present was Para (SUKMA) Malaysia Games chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Hii Chang Kee.