KUCHING: Sarawak athletes have demonstrated significant improvement in their performance at the 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma), according to Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu.
He noted that the recent medal tally achieved by the hosts is a strong testament to the quality of training Sarawakian athletes have been receiving.
“This shows that what we’ve been doing in our training has improved.
“The quality of our training has increased, and our athletes can challenge anyone. It just depends on your luck on the day of your competition.”
He made these remarks when speaking to reporters after the medal ceremony for the diving events at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre here today (Aug 23).
Rentap, who also serves as the Sarawak contingent chef de mission, expressed confidence that Sarawak is close to achieving its target of 70 gold medals at Sukma, despite the particularly challenging competition this year.
“Sukma isn’t over yet, but I feel confident we can achieve our target, and we’re working hard right now. However, in terms of competition, it’s been really tough this time.
“Looking at the women’s 3m springboard diving event today, the competition was indeed very intense, with the Sarawak diver narrowly losing to the diver from Federal Territories by only 3 points.
“The diver from Federal Territories, Lee Yiat Qing, is a SEA Games athlete. Based on the performance of the Sarawak athletes in this Sukma, it shows that they can challenge anyone,” Rentap added.
