Kuching to Host Appreciation Ceremony for Sarawak Athletes
KUCHING, August 26 – Sarawak’s top athletes will be rewarded handsomely for their outstanding performances at the 21st Malaysian Games (SUKMA), with cash incentives set to be disbursed during an appreciation ceremony scheduled for September 14 in Kuching. The announcement was made by Sarawak Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED), Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, in a press conference held earlier today.
The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has pushed for this ceremony to take place at the earliest possible date, given his busy schedule and an upcoming work trip to Australia. “I was informed last night that the Premier of Sarawak wants the appreciation ceremony to be held as soon as possible,” Abdul Karim stated. “We only have September 14 free, and I have instructed for preparations to be made.”
Substantial Cash Incentives for SUKMA Medalists
In a move to further motivate and reward Sarawakian athletes, the state government has announced a lucrative cash incentive scheme for those who clinched medals at SUKMA 2024. The incentive breakdown includes RM15,000 for each gold medal, RM5,000 for silver, and RM3,000 for bronze. This is a significant boost for the athletes, reflecting Sarawak’s commitment to recognizing their hard work and dedication.
On August 16, Premier Abang Johari officially announced this reward system, underlining the importance of acknowledging the athletes’ achievements on such a grand stage. “Our athletes have shown great determination and have brought pride to Sarawak. It is only fitting that we reward their efforts generously,” the Premier remarked during the announcement.
Sarawak Government’s Enhanced Reward System
Beyond the individual rewards, Abdul Karim highlighted an enhanced reward system designed to ensure that athletes participating in team events receive equitable recognition. In many cases, when a team wins a medal, the cash incentive is split among all team members, often leaving each athlete with a relatively small amount. To address this, the Sarawak government has introduced a top-up system based on a 3:2:1 formula.
Under this system, the cash incentives will ensure that each member of a gold medal-winning team will receive no less than RM3,000. For silver medalists, the minimum individual payout is RM2,000, and for bronze medalists, it is RM1,000. Abdul Karim provided an example to illustrate the new scheme: “If a team of 12 athletes wins a silver medal, the incentive of RM5,000 would typically be split among them, resulting in each athlete receiving only a few hundred ringgits. With the top-up system, each athlete will now receive RM2,000.”
This move by the Sarawak government is seen as a strategic approach to ensure fairness and to adequately reward the collective efforts of team participants. “We want to ensure that every athlete, whether competing individually or as part of a team, is recognized for their hard work and dedication,” Abdul Karim emphasized.
Sarawak’s Commitment to Sports Development
This cash incentive program is part of a broader commitment by the Sarawak government to develop and support sports within the state. By providing substantial rewards, the government aims to inspire current and future athletes to strive for excellence in their respective sports.
Abdul Karim reiterated the state’s dedication to nurturing talent and providing the necessary support to athletes. “Sarawak has always been at the forefront of sports development in Malaysia. We will continue to invest in our athletes and provide them with the opportunities and rewards they deserve.”
Looking Forward to Future Achievements
As Sarawak prepares to celebrate the achievements of its athletes on September 14, there is a growing sense of pride and anticipation. The cash incentives, coupled with the appreciation ceremony, serve not only as a reward for past achievements but also as motivation for future successes.
Sarawak’s athletes have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the national stage, and with the state’s unwavering support, they are poised to continue their winning streak in future competitions.
The upcoming ceremony in Kuching will be a significant event, highlighting Sarawak’s commitment to sports and the remarkable achievements of its athletes at SUKMA 2024. It is a moment of recognition that will undoubtedly inspire more young Sarawakians to pursue excellence in sports.