Para Sukma XXI: Sarawak celebrates victory despite falling short of gold medal target, says Fatimah

KUCHING (Sept 28): Sarawak Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah remained optimistic despite the state falling short of achieving its 83 gold medal target at the 21st Para Malaysia Games (Para Sukma XXI).

While Sarawak did not meet its goal of 83 gold medals, the most important aspect is its overall victory, she added.

“For instance, the athletics team set a target of 30 gold medals and surpassed it with 33.

“Similarly, the swimming team aimed for 15 gold medals and delivered 17, exceeding their target by two. Most teams have met or exceeded their goals,” she said.

She was speaking to reporters at a press conference after the prize giving ceremony for Para Sukma XXI’s Best Photo and Best Article of the Day at the Games’ media centre here today.

As of 4.30pm, Sarawak’s medal tally is at 82 golds, 53 silvers and 74 bronzes while Sabah in second spot with a haul of 62-42-32.

“When comparing this year to the 2022 Para Sukma when Sabah outperformed Sarawak by five gold medals, now Sarawak is ahead by 20 gold medals.

“This is a significant and commendable achievement. It can be described as an ‘elegant’ win,” Fatimah said.

On that note, she congratulated all Sarawakian para athletes, including those who did not meet their expected targets.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the parents, families, and partners of the para Sukma athletes for their unwavering support and encouragement.

“It’s okay, we are the champions,” she said.

Also present at the press conference were Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datuk Hii Chang Kee, Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development ministry permanent secretary Datu Felicia Tan Ya Hua, Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) director Samuel Simon.