Sarawak eyeing first Sukma gold in golf

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Mawan (seated second left), listening to a briefing by Hoan (left) on the preparation programme for Sukma 2016. Also seen are (from third left) Ong, Affandi and Lucas (standing right). — Photo by Jeffery Mostapa

KUCHING: Sarawak has set its sight on winning its first gold medal in golf when the state play host to the 2016 Malaysia Games (Sukma).

Social Development Minister Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom said a programme is in place for the state to snatch that elusive gold despite the state competing in all past editions of Sukma.

Mawan added that prospective state players will undergo intensive training while participating in tournaments including overseas exposure.

The state is also contemplating sending these players for a stint of three to six months in Australia as part of their preparation.

Eleven potential young golfers have been identified to carry the 2016 Sukma challenge but Mawan did not disclose their names.

“The state has a strong pride in golf. The chief minister (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem) and I, we have a personal pride in golf. We intend to defend this pride as the host and for our love of the game.

“The state is very much committed to developing golf. In regards to young people picking up the game, we are not short on talents. Now is the time to give players a strong footing to develop their game.

“If the parents and players can provide that same level of commitment, I believe that we will be on the right track. Now is about putting all these components together to drive them to achieve excellence,” Mawan said at a press conference held at his office at Bangunan Baitulmakmur near here yesterday.

Also present were Sarawak Golf Association (SGA) president Hoan Kee Hock, Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) chief executive officer Dr Ong Kong Swee, Sarawak State Sports Council (MSNS) acting director Lucas Kalang Laeng and Social Development Ministry permanent secretary Affandi Keli.

Earlier, Mawan was briefed by SGA delegates.

Golf is one of the five optional and 19 compulsory sports Sarawak will participate in the 2016 Sukma.

“The state will continue to spot potential athletes while developing current prospects. In the long run, we are looking to produce a sustainable pool of golfing talent. With some two years to go, I believe the state has ample of time to produce future Sukma golfing champion,” the senior minister continued.

Golf will offer four gold medals in Sukma 2016 – Men’s and Women’s Singles, Men and Women Team.

Mawan also said that Sukma 2016 provides the best opportunity for the state to be crowned overall champion again.

The state, he added, is looking to improve its dominance in its traditional powerhouse events.