KUCHING: National powerlifting star Bonnie Bunyau Gustin will spend time with his family in Kampung Baru Mawang, Serian, while recovering from a left shoulder injury.
The 25-year-old Sarawakian, who set a new world record by lifting 232kg in the Men’s 72kg category, was greeted with warm hugs and cheers by his family on his arrival at Kuching International Airport (KIA) on Saturday morning (Sept 14).
He was also welcomed by Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Well-being Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah along with Deputy Ministers Datuk Rosey Yunus and Datuk Mohamad Razi Sitam, and para-powerlifters.
Bonnie, who expressed his joy over the warm and cheerful reception at the airport, said that he plans to return to his village in Serian for family time.
“It has been a long time since we spent time together, about three months. Since then, we have only kept in touch through calls and messages.
“For now, I do not have any activities planned but, I have been selected as one of the torchbearers for the opening of Para Malaysia Games (Para Sukma) 2024.
“Aside from that, I will also focus on physiotherapy to treat my left shoulder, which is currently swollen,” he said.
The two-time Paralympic gold medallist overcame a severe left shoulder pain to retain his gold medal in the men’s 72kg category at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
After his victory, he dedicated his gold medal to his family for their continuous support and sacrifices.
When asked about his future, Bonnie said he will focus on the World Para Powerlifting World Championships in Egypt next year after recovering from his injury.
He also intends to compete in the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.
“I hope to see more new athletes making their mark on the international stage aside from myself,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bonnie’s father, Gustin Jenang, 57, told reporters that he is very proud of his son’s accomplishments in the Paris Paralympics.
“I am very proud of my son for setting two world records in the Paralympics – first in Tokyo and now in Paris.
“I have always encouraged him to stay focused, not give up, and keep the spirit of the sport alive in his heart,” he said.
Gustin, a former national para-powerlifter from 2007 until 2017, won a bronze medal by lifting 120kg in the Men’s 59kg category during the 2017 Asean Para Games in Kuala Lumpur, and a gold medal by lifting 125kg in the Men’s 59kg category during the 2018 Para Sukma in Perak.
