By Amanda L
KUCHING, Aug 11: “Kalau New Zealand boleh, Sarawak sik boleh ka?” — that was Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s challenge to Sarawak athletes as he urged them to aspire beyond the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) and raise the State’s sporting standards.
Drawing a comparison with New Zealand, Abang Johari noted that the country was neither large in size nor population, yet had produced champions in numerous sports at the Olympic Games.
“If New Zealand can, why can’t Sarawak?” he asked in his speech at the flag handover ceremony for the Sarawak contingents to Malaysia Games (SUKMA) XXII and Para SUKMA XXII here on Monday (Aug 10).
The Premier said Sarawak should not limit its ambitions to defending its SUKMA title, but should strive towards a higher sporting standard.
“If we aspire to reach the level of New Zealand, then certainly we must prove in Selangor that we are the champions,” he said.
However, for the athletes heading to Selangor, Abang Johari said the biggest factor would ultimately be their mindset and determination.
“Anak Sarawak jangan dicabar!” he declared, urging them to enter every competition with the attitude: “I come here to win, not to lose.”
He stressed that athletes should remain focused on their events, take care of their health and prepare properly.
Sarawak will defend its SUKMA title in Selangor from Aug 15 to 24, before Para SUKMA takes place from Sept 5 to 14. — DayakDaily
