Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah
KUCHING: Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah says Sarawak will start planning for the 20th Para Sukma 2020 in Johor early next year after a successful title defence at the Perak Para Sukma this week.
Fatimah, who is Minister of Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development, said the strategic planning would include talent scouting programme.
“We need to further develop the potential of our medal-winning athletes,” Fatimah said at an appreciation gathering launched by Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Masing for the Sarawak Para Sukma contingent at the Penview Convention Centre (PCC) Demak here yesterday.
Fatimah, who is the contingent head, described Sarawak athletes as ‘superb’, adding that they have “rise above their disabilities and focus instead on their abilities”.
“They face many difficulties, challenges, many heartaches along the way with courage and great commitment.
“They want to win. Win for themselves and win for Sarawak Ibu Pertiwiku,” she enthused.
Sarawak athletes won 61 gold medals to emerge the overall champions in Ipoh.
Neighbouring state Sabah and hosts Perak were placed second and third after winning 36 and 29 gold medals respectively.