A Glorious Achievement for Sarawak
KUCHING: The Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, together with his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Sarawak contingent for emerging as the overall champions of the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024. This victory marks a historic moment for Sarawak, as the state clinched the top spot after a 30-year hiatus, securing 76 gold medals in the process.
TYT’s Message of Pride and Joy
Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi expressed immense pride and joy over the contingent’s exceptional performance, which he described as a triumphant return to glory. “Alhamdulillah, after 30 years, Sarawak has successfully won the 21st edition of SUKMA. My wife and I would like to congratulate the Sarawak contingent—well done!” he said in a statement.
This victory is not only a testament to the athletes’ hard work and dedication but also a reflection of the strong support system in place, spearheaded by the state government and sports authorities.
A Tribute to the Leaders Behind the Success
Wan Junaidi took the opportunity to commend the efforts of the state government, particularly Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who served as the patron of the 2024 SUKMA Sarawak Secretariat. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Premier in guiding the state to this remarkable achievement.
The Head of State also extended his gratitude to Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who chaired the secretariat, and the Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datuk Hii Chang Kee, who served as the chief executive officer of the secretariat. Their leadership and dedication were instrumental in ensuring the smooth execution of the Games.
Recognition of Key Figures in Sarawak’s Sports Community
In his statement, Wan Junaidi did not forget to praise other key figures who contributed to this success. He congratulated Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, who also served as the chef de mission, and the Ministry’s permanent secretary Morshidi Fredrick, who was the deputy chef de mission. He credited them for maintaining a well-organized environment that allowed Sarawak’s athletes to compete at their best.
“The effort, spirit, and determination of all athletes coming from various backgrounds have made you the sports heroes and heroines of Sarawak,” he said. He emphasized that this victory is not just an individual achievement but a collective triumph that brought honor to the state.
Acknowledging the Spirit of Sportsmanship
Wan Junaidi also expressed his appreciation to the officials and athletes from other states for their cooperation, sportsmanship, and involvement in the Games. “Not forgetting athletes from other states, I congratulate you for your effort, cooperation, sportsmanship, and involvement. Remember, you are all the best because you have already proven your capability in the sports events you participated in,” he added.
Sarawak’s Historic Victory and the Road Ahead
The Head of State concluded his statement by reiterating his pride in Sarawak’s athletes, whose outstanding achievements have placed the state back at the pinnacle of Malaysian sports. “The success of Sarawak’s athletes in bagging gold medals has placed Sarawak as the overall champion. Thank you for bringing honor to Sarawak,” he said.
This historic victory not only brings pride to the people of Sarawak but also sets a new benchmark for future sporting events. The collective efforts of the athletes, coaches, and officials have paved the way for a brighter and more competitive future for Sarawak in the national and international sports arena.
The Spirit of SUKMA 2024
As Sarawak celebrates this monumental victory, the spirit of unity, perseverance, and excellence embodied by the athletes will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of sportsmen and women. The state’s success at SUKMA 2024 is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when dedication and teamwork are combined with strong leadership and community support.
Sarawak’s triumph at SUKMA 2024 will be remembered as a moment of glory that not only brought the state back to the forefront of Malaysian sports but also strengthened the bonds of unity and pride among its people.
Conclusion
Sarawak’s victory at SUKMA 2024 is a testament to the resilience and determination of its athletes, supported by the unwavering dedication of the state’s leadership. As the celebrations continue, the people of Sarawak can look forward to more successes in the future, building on this historic achievement.