By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, April 30: Amateur Swimming Association of Sarawak (ASAS) president Dato Wee Hong Seng has confirmed that he will not seek re-election in the upcoming annual general meeting (AGM) of ASAS, effectively ending his 14-year tenure in the organisation.
Wee, who also serves as Mayor of Kuching South City Council (MBKS), said the upcoming AGM will be held in the coming months and confirmed that he has instructed preparations to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
“The question of staying on or not is no longer in question — I won’t be nominated. It is time to pass the baton,” he told reporters after a press conference on the 2025 Kuching Festival Food Fair held at the MBKS building here today.
He further revealed, “In fact, I had wanted to step down last year, but since Sarawak was hosting Sukma XXI, I felt it was my responsibility to stay on and ensure the swimming competition was well organised.”
Wee, who has led ASAS since 2010, said the association is now in good financial health and has consistently performed well at national meets.
“Under my leadership, we have managed to win at least 10 gold medals in every Sukma. I am leaving now because ASAS is in good shape,” he added.
Wee emphasised that leadership succession in the association should be determined through proper elections among affiliate members.
“It’s only fair that members themselves elect their leaders, because the association belongs to everyone,” he said.
He acknowledged that while he has shown results, his growing commitments as mayor have limited the time he can dedicate to the association.
“To be fair, we need someone who can give more attention and time. You can’t have both. You must be ready and capable to serve,” he said.
Wee also highlighted the importance of continuity and responsibility in sports leadership, stressing that successors must take over a healthy organisation, not one in crisis.
“It’s not fair to pass a sick association to someone else. You must hand over something stable and functioning well,” he added.
As he prepares to step aside, Wee expressed hope that new leaders will carry forward the spirit of teamwork and keep Sarawak’s sporting legacy strong.
“This is voluntary work, and it’s tough. But if everyone works towards one goal — for the sake of Sarawak sport — then we are on the right path.”
He concluded by thanking all who have contributed to the association over the years and reiterated that results, not positions, are what truly matter.
“Whether who is right or wrong is not important. The results speak for themselves. We want Sarawak to be champion — always.” — DayakDaily
