By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Oct 3: The Sarawak government has allocated RM1 million to support the organisation of the 22nd Malaysian Deaf Sports Championship (SOPMA XXII) in the State.
Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said the allocation reflects the State government’s strong commitment to promoting inclusive sports.
“SOPMA is not just about winning medals or standing on the podium but it is a symbol of inclusivity, integration and equality,” she said when officiating the opening ceremony of SOPMA XXII at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre last night (Oct 2).
The games will be held from today until Oct 6, with competitions taking place in Kuching and Samarahan. Five sports will be contested, namely athletics, badminton, futsal, tenpin bowling and orienteering.
Fatimah revealed that 14 contingents comprising 610 athletes, 167 officials and 100 volunteers are participating in this year’s championship.
“Individuals with special needs, including those with hearing impairments, also have a strong interest and talent in sports.
“An inclusive policy requires us to provide them with space and platforms to participate, compete and showcase their potential,” she added.
She also highlighted the recent Malaysia Deaf Summit 2025, themed ‘Reclaiming Deaf Spaces: Language, Identity and Cultural Power’, which was jointly organised by the Deaf Advocacy and Wellbeing National Organisation (DAWN) and the Sarawak Deaf Community Services Association (SDCSA).
Fatimah said the Sept 28 summit, chaired by SDCSA chairman Albert Wong, underscored Sarawak’s leadership in advancing inclusivity and empowering the Deaf community, drawing participants from Malaysia and abroad.
She also urged all athletes to compete with confidence, sportsmanship and determination, while expressing her gratitude to everyone involved for their dedication, support and sacrifices in making the event possible.
“Let this SOPMA not only serve as a sporting arena but also as a platform to strengthen friendship, inclusivity and unity,” Fatimah added. — DayakDaily
