KUCHING: The Sarawak Boxing Association (Saba) aims to become the overall champion in boxing at the Malaysia Games (Sukma) scheduled for August this year.
Saba president Datuk Rahman Lariwoo said the decision follows the advice issued by the Sarawak Ministry of Youth and Sports.
“As the host, we must become the overall champion in boxing. We are targeting six gold medals. This is based on the association’s training plans, and I believe we can achieve what is entrusted by the ministry.”
He said this when met by the media at the 3rd Sarawak Open Boxing Championship at the Unity Stadium, Petra Jaya here, yesterday.
Rahman revealed that Sarawak will send 15 boxers comprising 12 male and three female pugilists to this year’s Sukma.
“The last time we participated in Sukma, we won three gold, two silver and three bronze medals. This time, our target is to add three gold medals. I believe it’s not impossible on our own turf.”
Regarding Sarawak’s potential in the Sarawak Open, Rahman noted that it serves as a platform for young boxers, especially representatives from Sarawak and Malaysia, to gain experience by competing with boxers from other countries.
“This championship is a stage for our boxers to seize the opportunity to gain experience, and we hope that some of them will contribute gold medals.”
Saba currently has 14 centres throughout Sarawak, excluding clubs in Bintulu and Kuching.
Commenting on this, Rahman pointed out that boxing is growing and gaining popularity in Sarawak.
