KUCHING: Volunteers are the backbone of the organization of the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA XXI); although they may operate behind the scenes during the event, their roles and contributions are far from insignificant.
Without their efforts, this event would be far from flawless and could potentially draw criticism from various quarters.
After each sports event concludes, they play a crucial role in ensuring the seamless transition to the next segment—the medal presentation ceremony. This must be executed flawlessly, without any mistakes involving the winning athletes and their respective states.
Errors such as hoisting the wrong flag or playing the incorrect state anthem could lead to severe criticism and prolonged discussions on social media.
Despite the heavy responsibilities that often go unnoticed, the volunteers supporting the smooth running of SUKMA XXI remain dedicated and committed to the tasks entrusted to them.
“Raising the flag is the biggest challenge. We need to ensure that the flag matches the state represented by the athlete, and it must be hoisted in sync with the conclusion of the state anthem,” said Mohd Fairudi Mohd Jamil, 36, an Assistant Mechanical Engineer at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) who is volunteering during the event.
“While it may seem simple, any mistake could draw prolonged criticism. Even raising the flag in the rain requires meticulous attention to ensure it reaches the top of the pole in perfect condition, including making sure the flag arrangement is correct,” he added.
In addition to his flag-raising duties, Fairudi is also responsible for arranging the medals as well as the figures of Satria and Satrina on the trays before each medal presentation ceremony.
Furthermore, he mentioned that all volunteers received briefings and training before SUKMA began.
For those involved with the awards committee, various aspects were considered, such as ensuring that the Satrina figure is presented to female distinguished individuals (VIPs) and the Satria figure to male VIPs before being handed to the medal recipients.
As a volunteer under the awards committee, Fairudi and other volunteers were tasked with various duties requiring physical endurance and patience. For instance, every morning, they had to carry banners from storage and arrange them on the field.
“Feedback from VIPs and sports associations is common, but it’s part of our routine throughout SUKMA. What matters most to me is serving the nation and Sarawak through SUKMA as a volunteer,” he said with a positive tone.
For general volunteers John Phang, 13, and Aster Dylan, 14, volunteering at the Wushu event was an unforgettable experience.
“This is my first time being involved in such a large-scale sports event. It’s a priceless experience, and I’m also thrilled to be able to serve while witnessing the thrilling Wushu competitions,” said John, who is also a martial arts trainee under the guidance of his coach, Jong Chin Wei.
Similarly, Aster found some tasks challenging and even burdensome, such as frequently carrying heavy, ice blocks that needed to be replaced every four hours for air conditioning, something he had never done before.
He added that tasks such as preparing drinks for referees, ensuring the competition hall was clean, and arranging chairs was indeed tiring but did not deter him from participating as a volunteer in future events or championships.
Such roles may not be highly visible throughout SUKMA, but volunteers are the backbone of the smooth organization of this event.
Regardless of where they were stationed, whether in Kuching, Miri, Betong, or elsewhere, volunteers were the catalysts for the success of SUKMA 2024, and they deserve acknowledgement.
Their services and contributions might be required again in future major events and championships. Congratulations and thank you to all the volunteers of MALAYSIA GAMES 2024!
