Special Olympics Malaysia More Than Just Sport, Elevates Potential Of Athletes With Special Needs
BINTULU: Special Olympics Malaysia is more than just a sporting event; it serves as an important platform to uplift dignity and showcase the true potential of athletes with special needs.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg underscored the event as an opportunity for the public to witness the real capabilities of individuals with special needs, while recognising their role as part of the state’s social strength.
“Special Olympics is not merely a sporting event, but a platform that upholds human dignity.
“It teaches us to see ability, not disability; to recognise potential, not limitations; and to value every individual as an important asset in building a more inclusive society,” he said.
His speech was delivered by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian at the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics Malaysia 6th National Games Sarawak 2026 at Dewan Suara Bintulu on Saturday.
According to him, sports play a vital role as a medium for building self-confidence, discipline, and fighting spirit among athletes with special needs, while also bridging the gap in public understanding of their lived realities.
He added that true development is not measured solely by economic progress, but also by how far every segment of society, including individuals with special needs, is given the opportunity to grow, contribute, and benefit from the state’s development.
“In this context, the Sarawak Government will continue to support all initiatives that strengthen the development of an inclusive community, including the organisation of events such as the Special Olympics,” he said.
He also described the spirit and courage displayed by the athletes as a source of inspiration to society, and expressed appreciation to parents, teachers, and coaches for their dedication in shaping the athletes’ journey.
At the same time, he called for efforts to promote inclusivity not to be limited to events alone, but to be translated into policies, education, workplaces, and daily life.
“Let us work together to build a more inclusive and progressive society that leaves no one behind,” he added.
The Special Olympics Malaysia National Games 2026, held in Bintulu from April 24 to 26, marks the first time the event is hosted in Sarawak, involving 705 participants competing in eight sports: athletics, swimming, bocce, badminton, basketball, football, table tennis, and bowling.
Also present were Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, Deputy Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development (Community Wellbeing Development) Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam, Organising Chairman of the Special Olympics Malaysia National Games and Chairman of the Special Olympics Bintulu Chapter Dato Ruslan Abdul Ghani, as well as other guests. -UKASnews