By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 11: All athletes competing in the Special Olympics Malaysia National Games 2026 (SOMNG26) will be awarded medals in recognition of their courage and participation, reflecting the inclusive spirit that underpins the Games.
In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development and Special Olympics Sarawak president Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said the initiative ensures that every athlete is appreciated, regardless of their final standing, while helping to build confidence and motivation among participants with special needs.
“Apart from the gold, silver and bronze medals, other participants who compete will also receive medals in recognition of their courage to try,” she told a press conference held in conjunction with SOMNG26 at a hotel here on Tuesday (Feb 10).
Meanwhile, she stressed that athletes’ welfare and health remain a top priority through the implementation of the Healthy Athletes Programme throughout the tournament.
The programme will provide health screenings, including blood pressure, vision, hearing and physical fitness checks, to ensure athletes remain safe and in good health during the competition.
“This programme is important to detect any health problems early so that follow-up action can be taken,” she said.
The Healthy Athletes Programme will be held at Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (SJK) Chung Hua, Bintulu, with the support of a dedicated medical team and trained volunteers.
A total of 793 participants, comprising athletes, coaches, heads of delegation and chaperones from 11 states, are expected to take part, making it one of the largest national-level Special Olympics events in the country.
Fatimah expressed hope that the hosting of SOMNG26 would further strengthen inclusive sports development and raise public awareness of the abilities and potential of persons with special needs nationwide. — DayakDaily
