KUCHING: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi extended their heartfelt congratulations to the Sarawak contingent for emerging for emerging champions of the 21st Para Malaysia Games (SUKMA).
Expressing his pride for the host state, he noted that Sarawak secured 82 gold medals, just one short of their initial target of 83.
“Alhamdulillah, we are grateful. My wife and I wish to convey our highest congratulations to the Sarawak Contingent,” Wan Junaidi said in a statement on Facebook today (Sept 29).
He also conveyed his appreciation to the Sarawak government, under the leadership of the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for their strong commitment in making the state as the best host for the Games.
“Congratulations are also due to the Ministry of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development, led by Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, as well as the Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh, for their dedication in ensuring the smooth running of the Para SUKMA,” he said.
He also thanked Sarawak Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datuk Hii Chang Kee, who also served as the SUKMA Sarawak 2024 chief executive officer, along with the entire organising committee, which included various government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), private sector entities, corporate bodies, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure all preparations, facilities, welfare, and safety measures were in place.
“Kudos to all the coaches, management teams, and everyone who contributed, both directly and indirectly,” he said.
To the athletes, he expressed his gratitude for bringing honour to the state of Sarawak.
“The fighting spirit you displayed during the competition proves that persons with disabilities (OKU) are equally capable of making significant contributions to the country.
“It is my hope that the hosting of this year’s Para SUKMA in Sarawak will serve as a catalyst for us to further strengthen our efforts to empower and uplift the OKU community,” he said.
He added that opportunities for the OKU to excel should not only be limited to sports but also extended to other fields as well.
“The success of our para-athletes in the Games proves that physical limitations are not a barrier to success.
“What matters most is determination and strong will, accompanied by comprehensive and strong support,” he said.
