KOTA SAMARAHAN: The hosts, Sarawak, clinched the esteemed title of overall champion at the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024 this past Saturday, edging out the Federal Territories by a single gold medal after enduring what many have hailed as the fiercest battle in the history of the national biennial games.
This momentous victory marks Sarawak’s fourth triumph in the SUKMA, following their previous wins in 1990, 1992, and 1994, solidifying their legacy with an impressive haul of 76 gold, 55 silver, and 70 bronze medals.
In the aftermath of this thrilling achievement, the Sarawak Tribune sought out a diverse array of voices to capture the essence of this triumph. Through these interviews, individuals shared their reflections, emotions, and perspectives on the state’s remarkable success, painting a vivid picture of the collective pride and jubilation that reverberated throughout Sarawak in the wake of this historic win.
Sarfiza Othman@Osman, 39
Civil servant
As a proud citizen of Malaysia, I am overjoyed to witness Sarawak’s exceptional victory as the overall champion in the 21st Sukma Games. This triumph stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication, hard work, and perseverance of our athletes, coaches, and support teams. It is a moment of immense pride that unites us all.
Let us come together to celebrate this remarkable success and express our gratitude to the athletes who have brought honour to both our state and our nation. By standing united, we can motivate them to continue their pursuit of excellence and reach even greater heights in the times ahead. Congratulations once more to Team Sarawak!
Dr Wan Juliana Emeih Wahed, 40
Senior Lecturer of College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA Sarawak Branch.
I may not hail from Sarawak, but my pride in the Sarawak team knows no bounds! Having resided in Sarawak for over 14 years, I can attest to the unwavering dedication of the athletes and the remarkable support extended by the Sarawak state and Ministry of Youth and Sports. This collective effort serves as a shining example of unity and collaboration amongst the people of Sarawak through the platform of sports. My heartfelt congratulations go out to the Sarawak team! My pride isn’t merely substantial—it’s immense! It is through teamwork that these aspirations are brought to fruition!
Patricia Pawa Pitil, 38
Sports Science Lecturer Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation, UiTM Sarawak
Sarawak’s triumph as the champion of SUKMA 2024 fills me, a proud Sarawakian, with immense joy. This victory stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Sarawak Ministry of Youth and Sports, the committed coaches, the talented athletes, and all those who contributed behind the scenes. As an academic specializing in sports science, I envision a bright future for Sarawak in the realm of sports. The state’s aspiration to establish itself as a dominant force in national sports is well within reach, with new records being set and surpassed, and emerging talents being discovered. Sarawak is on the cusp of ascending to the next level of excellence. Exciting times are on the horizon.
Zalina Ibrahim, 48
Senior Lecturer
The Sukma Sarawak 2024 was an exhilarating event to behold. I am immensely proud to have witnessed the extraordinary and thrilling odyssey of all Sarawak athletes as they clinched 76 gold medals, shattering national records in the process. The Sarawak team performed exceptionally well and unequivocally deserved the title of overall champions. After a three-decade wait, Sarawak emerged victorious, marking a historic moment that will be remembered for generations. The opening and closing ceremonies were truly awe-inspiring, leaving spectators in sheer amazement. Congratulations to the Sarawak team. “Sarawak nang mantul!”
Dr Asmah Alia Mohamad Bohari, 41
Head of Study Centre Art & Design, Architecture, Planning & Surveying
Being both the host and the reigning champion simultaneously brings immense joy to all Sarawakians. The paramount focus for organizing Sukma in Sarawak this year has been fostering solidarity among the states and the athletes themselves. Once more, Sarawak, renowned for its hospitality, has excelled. Congratulations to everyone involved in this remarkable achievement.
