Jilin Itar KUCHING (Aug 26): The crowning of the Sarawak contingent as Sukma XXI champions had evoked deep pride and joy among citizens of the state. Those interviewed by The Borneo Post yesterday said the achievements of the athletes were testament to their years of hard work, dedication and unyielding spirit. Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals president Datin Dona Drury-Wee expressed the collective pride of Sarawakians, saying ‘the victory is a great achievement’.
“It is not something that happened overnight, but the culmination of years of training and hard work that has reaped the ultimate reward. All Sarawakians are truly proud of what our athletes have achieved, and we raise our voices in unison in congratulating all the winners. “At the same time, we encourage those who didn’t make it to learn from their experience and do better next time,” she said.
Jilin Itar, who is the private secretary to the Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, said the victory regained Sarawak’s status as one of the regions capable of producing athletes who can represent the country at the international level. He said the victory, which aligns with this year’s Sukma theme ‘Bersukan Untuk Perpaduan’ (Sports for Unity), is a reflection of the state’s broader aspirations for harmony and human development. “The value of each gold medal is immense, and the excitement of both the opening and closing ceremonies reflects the Saraw.