Special Olympics Malaysia Games: Sarawak reaffirms commitment to inclusivity
Dr Sim speaks during the opening ceremony.
BINTULU (April 25): Sarawak has reaffirmed its commitment to building an inclusive society where no one is left behind, as the 6th Special Olympics Malaysia National Games 2026 officially opened at Dewan Suarah here tonight.
Deputy Premier Sim Kui Hian stressed that true development goes beyond economic progress and must ensure opportunities for all, including persons with disabilities and those with special needs.
The games bring together some 402 participants from across the country, highlighting strong nationwide support for the Special Olympics movement.
“True development is when every citizen is given the opportunity to progress, contribute and benefit from the state’s development,” he said, adding that the Sarawak government will continue supporting initiatives that strengthen inclusive community development, including the Special Olympics.
He also commended State Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah for her leadership in empowering individuals with special needs through programmes that focus on talent development, confidence-building and social participation.
Describing the Special Olympics as more than just a sporting event, Dr Sim said it serves as a platform that uplifts human dignity and encourages society to recognise ability rather than disability.
“Sports are a powerful medium in building unity, discipline and self-confidence, while also fostering greater awareness, acceptance and respect for individuals with special needs,” he added.
He noted that hosting the national games in Bintulu reflects Sarawak’s capability not only in organising major events but also in championing inclusivity and the well-being of its people.
To the athletes, he said their courage and determination are a source of inspiration, proving that challenges can be overcome with the right support.
He also expressed appreciation to parents, teachers and coaches for their dedication in nurturing the athletes’ journeys.
He further called on all Malaysians to make inclusivity a shared culture, not just a slogan, by embedding it in policies, education, workplaces and daily life.
He said under the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, inclusivity means ensuring that no group is left behind, including persons with disabilities, rural communities, women and youth.
“These Special Olympics demonstrate how the values of PCDS 2030 can be translated into reality through opportunities, support and recognition for athletes with special needs,” he said.
Confident that the Special Olympics movement will continue to grow, he welcomed participants and guests from across Malaysia and expressed hope that the games would be held smoothly and in the true spirit of sportsmanship.
“With this, I hereby officially declare the Special Olympics Malaysia National Games 2026 open,” he said.
Also present were State Deputy Minister of Community for Women, Children, Children and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Mohamad Razi Sutam; Regional President and Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Special Olympics Dipak Natali; President of Special Olympics Malaysia Bong Koi Sin; and Chairman of the Organising Committee for the Special Olympics Malaysia National Games 2026, who is also Chairman of the Special Olympics Bintulu Chapter and President/Chief Executive Officer of Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad, Ruslan Abdul Ghani and other invited guests.
The Borneo Post