KUCHING: Sarawak’s triumphant reclaiming of the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) trophy after a 30-year wait is being hailed as a testament to the collective efforts of all those involved.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu noted that winning back the trophy after three decades holds profound meaning.
“We did it. Thank you to all the athletes, team managers, coaches, parents and our National Sports Council (MSN) Sarawak and Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) staff which has made this happen.
“I must also thank my family, staff, sponsors and all Sarawakians that supported us,” he said in a Facebook post.
Rentap, who is also the 2024 SUKMA Sarawak contingent chef de mission, also dedicated the victory to two influential figures who profoundly impacted his involvement in Sarawak sports: the late Tok Nan (Pehin Sri Adenan Satem) and the late Datuk Taha Ariffin.
“I dedicate the win to two most influential people that opened my eyes to contributing to Sarawak sports, the late Tok Nan and the late Datuk Taha Ariffin. Peace be upon them,” he said.
Sarawak was crowned the overall champion of the 2024 SUKMA after securing a remarkable tally of 76 gold, 55 silver, and 70 bronze medals.
During the closing ceremony at the Unity Stadium on August 24, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim presented the overall champion trophies to Rentap and SSC Chief Executive Officer Awang Putrayusrie Awang Redzuan.
