(Kuching, 22nd) Sarawak has set a precedent in Malaysia by providing special rewards to all medalists from state contingents at the 22nd Malaysia Deaf Sports Games (SOPMA 2025), with a total allocation reaching RM399,000.
Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Minister for Women, Children and Community Wellbeing Development of Sarawak, stated that this reward covers all 14 participating states. The Sarawak contingent earned a total of 20 medals—9 gold, 4 silver, and 7 bronze—maintaining their overall runner-up position, and thus Sarawak was allocated RM60,000.
“When I consulted Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg regarding the rewards, he told me to first calculate the amount. After I finished, he said: ‘Give it to everyone,’ reflecting a spirit of inclusiveness.”
Fatimah said at the award ceremony for the 22nd SOPMA medalists yesterday (Feb 21): “Alhamdulillah, this has set a new record and a historic milestone in awarding SOPMA athletes.”
She pointed out that this reward program is implemented in coordination with the Federal Sports Victory Incentive Scheme (SHAKAM), where athletes first receive the federal reward, and then obtain the state-level reward according to the established formula.
Fatimah also mentioned that Sarawakian athletes who represent Malaysia in international events, including the recently concluded 13th ASEAN Para Games (Nakhon Ratchasima/Khon Kaen, Thailand), as well as eligible Deaflympics athletes, will also be covered by this rewards scheme.
"Later, together with Matthew Chin (Special Needs Sports Development Officer), we will calculate the specific amount before submitting it for the Premier's approval," she added.
Looking to the future, Fatimah urged athletes, coaches, and sports associations to prepare for the 2027 SOPMA to be held in Selangor, expressing confidence that Sarawak can surpass its runner-up achievement.
"Our athletes improved their SOPMA performance from fourth to third and now to second place last year. Logically, our next goal for 2027 must be to be champions.
"With discipline, commitment, and the support of coaches, parents, and the state government, I am confident Sarawak can achieve this goal," she emphasized.
Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Minister for Women, Children and Community Wellbeing Development of Sarawak, stated that this reward covers all 14 participating states. The Sarawak contingent earned a total of 20 medals—9 gold, 4 silver, and 7 bronze—maintaining their overall runner-up position, and thus Sarawak was allocated RM60,000.
“When I consulted Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg regarding the rewards, he told me to first calculate the amount. After I finished, he said: ‘Give it to everyone,’ reflecting a spirit of inclusiveness.”
She pointed out that this reward program is implemented in coordination with the Federal Sports Victory Incentive Scheme (SHAKAM), where athletes first receive the federal reward, and then obtain the state-level reward according to the established formula.
Fatimah also mentioned that Sarawakian athletes who represent Malaysia in international events, including the recently concluded 13th ASEAN Para Games (Nakhon Ratchasima/Khon Kaen, Thailand), as well as eligible Deaflympics athletes, will also be covered by this rewards scheme.
"Later, together with Matthew Chin (Special Needs Sports Development Officer), we will calculate the specific amount before submitting it for the Premier's approval," she added.
Looking to the future, Fatimah urged athletes, coaches, and sports associations to prepare for the 2027 SOPMA to be held in Selangor, expressing confidence that Sarawak can surpass its runner-up achievement.
"Our athletes improved their SOPMA performance from fourth to third and now to second place last year. Logically, our next goal for 2027 must be to be champions.
"With discipline, commitment, and the support of coaches, parents, and the state government, I am confident Sarawak can achieve this goal," she emphasized.