Deaf Sports Association Baton Run Starts in Miri - Lee Kim Shin: Showcasing Spirit of National Unity

(Miri, 4th) Organized by the Sarawak Deaf Sports Association, the 2025 “SOPMA Baton Run 2025” event kicked off today in front of the Miri City Council building, attracting over 300 participants from different ethnic, religious, and social backgrounds, showcasing the harmonious spirit of Sarawak’s multicultural society.

The event was inaugurated by Sarawak's Minister of Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, with his speech read by proxy Jeffrey Phang. Lee Kim Shin expressed his high support for the event despite being unable to attend in person due to official duties and announced a RM5,000 allocation to the Sarawak Deaf Sports Association to support the continual promotion of relevant sports development.

He stated that the baton run is not just a sports activity but symbolizes the spirit of unity and perseverance, encouraging the deaf community to integrate into society with more confidence, showcasing their value and capabilities.

“I am aware of the challenges that athletes with disabilities face in pursuing their sports dreams. Their resilience and efforts are worthy of our admiration and learning. Since my tenure as Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports in Sarawak, I have continued to focus on and support the sports development of people with disabilities.”

He added that the Sarawak government, under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari, adheres to the principle of “social inclusion,” committed to caring for the welfare of various ethnic groups, including the deaf and disabled individuals. However, the government’s efforts must be closely coordinated with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to truly penetrate the community and yield greater benefits.

Lee Kim Shin also urged businesses and the private sector in Miri to support such groups actively, whether through financial assistance or other forms of support, as this positively drives community development.

He mentioned that the baton relay, as an excellent example, helps strengthen the ties between the government, NGOs, and the public, hoping for more inclusive community activities in Miri in the future. As a state assemblyman for the Miri area, he expressed commitment to continuing to assist in various local social development projects.