KUCHING: Serumbu assemblyman Miro Simuh said he was leaving it to the state government to decide the reward for Pandelela Rinong.
He was commenting on calls by a group of Bidayuh political and community leaders for the national diver who secured Malaysia’s first and only gold at the just concluded Fina Diving World Cup in Tokyo to be rewarded for her continuous inspiring achievements.
Miro, however, suggested that the reward should befit Pandelela’s sacrifices, hard work and determination.
“Her victory at the just concluded women’s individual 10m platform final of the FINA World Diving Cup is not just a record but historic one for the country. The gold medal is Malaysia’s first and only in the competition.
“The victory is evident that Pandelela is truly a gem. What she does so far to excel as a diving champion is exceptional.”
Miro said she had become an inspirational figure for many young athletes.
Pandelela’s sacrifices, determination, hard work and never-say-die spirit had contributed to her success so far, he added.
Miro also supported comments by netizens that Sarawak should not adopt a wait-and-see attitude but be the first to accord rewards for Pandelela,
“We cannot be seen as playing second fiddle. After all, Pandelala is not only born and bred here. She started her swimming and diving journey here and her heart and soul are here”.
On calls for her to be awarded an honorific title, he said based on her impressive performance even at the world stage and the pain, injuries and hard work she had to endure, it would be worth considering.
He acknowledged that every state would have different criteria in awarding honorific titles to individuals and it would not be right to make comparison with other states.
However, Miro said he would leave it to the state leaders to decide, adding: “If they think she deserves it, then why not?”
