KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s 713-strong Malaysia Games (Sukma) contingent is in high spirits after a pep talk by none other than the Chief Minister himself.
Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor rallied Sabah’s promising athletes in a send-off ceremony here on Thursday (Aug 1) as they prepared for the 21st edition of the Sukma Games that will be held in Sarawak from Aug 17 to 24.
Hajiji urged the contingent to do their best to achieve the target of 40 golds.
"To all 713 athletes representing Sabah in this biennial national sports meet, compete with all your might and a high sporting spirit to bring honour to Sabah," he said when handing over the state flag to the contingent at the Sabah International Convention Centre here.
Based on Sabah's performance in the 20th Sukma in Kuala Lumpur two years ago, he said the state team brought home 30 gold medals, 30 silver medals, and 38 bronze medals.
As such, he said he was confident that the Sabah team will be able to achieve the target set this year.
In 2022, Sabah placed sixth among 15 contingents in the nation's most prestigious sports meet, which also included the Brunei Darussalam contingent.
Hajiji said the best incentive awaits the Sukma Sarawak winners.
"I have full trust in our athletes' capability, and that all of you will bring success to set a benchmark for all sporting events in the state.
"Get the best record so you can go on to represent Malaysia at higher-level tournaments including at the world championship meets or the Olympics," he added.
The Chief Minister advised the athletes to maintain the highest degree of discipline, which is the most crucial element when competing in any competition.
"No matter how great the athlete is, they will end up nowhere without discipline.
"I am also sure the Sabah contingent is mentally and physically prepared,” Hajiji said.
The Chief Minister also wanted officials accompanying the athletes to look after their safety and welfare during their stay in Sarawak.
