Yee Aleng’s Victory at Sarawak Stadium: A Tribute to Perseverance and Passion
KUCHING – In a poignant moment at the Sarawak Stadium during the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024, Sabah’s Ku Yee Aleng, 19, captured not just a gold medal but the hearts of many as she tearfully dedicated her victory in the women’s high jump to her late father, Ku Boon Euo.
“I wish my late father were here to see this,” Yee Aleng said, her voice breaking with emotion as she stood atop the podium. The young athlete’s journey to this moment was filled with challenges, making her triumph all the more significant.
The Path to Gold: Overcoming Doubts and Challenges
Yee Aleng’s journey to SUKMA gold was not an easy one. Hailing from the small town of Kunak in Sabah, she faced resistance from her father, who believed that her focus should be on academics rather than athletics. “He never supported me in pursuing sports. He wanted me to focus on my studies because I wasn’t the brightest student,” Yee Aleng recalled.
Despite her father’s doubts, Yee Aleng’s determination never wavered. She not only excelled in sports but also succeeded academically, earning a place at the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) Gaya Campus in Sabah. Her dual success in both areas was a testament to her resilience and dedication.
The Emotional Moment of Victory
On the day of the final, Yee Aleng cleared 1.64m, a height that not only secured her the gold medal but also marked a personal best. The competition was intense, with Penang’s Melissa Choong also clearing the same height. However, Yee Aleng was declared the winner on countback, as she managed to clear the bar on her second attempt, whereas Melissa succeeded on her third.
“I’m overjoyed as this is my first SUKMA, and I never thought I could win,” Yee Aleng said, overwhelmed by the achievement. “Melissa is a formidable opponent, experienced and strong. To set a new PB here means everything to me.”
The bronze medal was claimed by Sarawak’s own Sylvia Nawan SA, who cleared 1.54m.
The Legacy of a Father’s Love
The victory was bittersweet for Yee Aleng, as it came seven years after the passing of her father. “I cried because I remembered my father. Now that I’ve won this gold medal, it breaks my heart that I can’t show him that I’ve succeeded in both sports and academics,” she shared.
Yee Aleng’s story is one of perseverance and triumph, not just over the bar but over the challenges life has thrown at her. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many young athletes who may face similar obstacles.
Other Highlights from SUKMA 2024
While Yee Aleng’s victory was a highlight of the day, the men’s javelin event also saw a thrilling competition. Federal Territories’ Cheah Jei Wun claimed gold with a throw of 56.53m, narrowly edging out Selangor’s Tan Jing Yi, who settled for silver with 54.03m. Johor’s Noor Iman Norman took home the bronze with a throw of 53.36m.
SUKMA 2024 has proven to be a stage where not only athletic prowess but also personal stories of resilience and determination come to light. Yee Aleng’s story, in particular, will be remembered as one of the most emotional and inspiring moments of this year’s games.
The Future Looks Bright for Yee Aleng
As Yee Aleng returns to Sabah with her gold medal, she carries with her not just the pride of her victory but the memory of her father, who, despite his initial reservations, would undoubtedly be proud of her accomplishments. The young athlete’s future in both sports and academics looks promising, and her story will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.