By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 29: The Malaysian Deaf Sports Association (MSDeaf) today conferred its Special Award on Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the development of deaf sports in Malaysia.
The award was presented by Minister of Youth and Sports Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari at the National Deaf Sports Awards 2025 (ASPN 2025), held at the Casa 4 Banquet Hall, National Sports Council, in Kuala Lumpur.
MSDeaf said the Special Award honours Fatimah’s dedication, leadership and unwavering support for the deaf community, particularly her pivotal role in ensuring the successful organisation of the 22nd Malaysian Deaf Games (SOPMA XXII) in Sarawak.
Her inclusive leadership, the association noted, has helped elevate deaf sports by securing recognition and sustained support at both State and national levels.
In her acceptance statement, Fatimah expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed her commitment to inclusive sports development.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this Special Award and regard it as a recognition of the entire deaf sports community in Malaysia. Deaf athletes have proven that limitations are not barriers to success. Continued support for inclusive sports will be strengthened to nurture world-class athletes,” she said in a statement.
MSDeaf president Dr Ong Shin Ruenn said the award reflected the deaf sports community’s high appreciation for Fatimah’s vision and commitment, describing her as a strong advocate for inclusivity in sports.
He added that the success of SOPMA XXII was further reinforced by the announcement of victory incentives by the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, which had boosted morale and encouraged deaf athletes to continue striving for excellence at national and international levels.
MSDeaf expressed hope that the Special Award would further strengthen collaboration between the government, sports bodies and the community in nurturing disciplined, competitive and world-class deaf athletes in Malaysia.
The ceremony was attended by MSDeaf leaders, representatives from national sports bodies, national Deaf athletes and other distinguished guests. — DayakDaily
