SWA has Ministry's full backing

Kota Kinabalu: The State Youth and Sports Ministry will give their full support of the appeal by Sabah Weightlifting Association (SWA) to have weightlifting listed in the coming Sukma Games in Perak, in September.Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin had on December last year announced that weightlifting, sepak takraw and taekwondo will be dropped from the National Sports Council's (NSC) programme for Sukma this year.

He cited the sports were dropped due to a decline in performance, doping issues as well as power struggles within the associations.

State Assistant Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Masiung Banah who officiated the National Invitation Championship held here on Tuesday said the decision to axe the sport was a bit harsh.

"The decision announced came as a shock to everybody. They should have issued a last warning first.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Sabah revenue hits RM6.97 billion: Hajiji says GRS State Government may see full term

Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Government continued its momentum in managing the economy in line with the commitment and spirit of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) when it posted record high state revenue of RM6.973 billion last year.

If the sport does not perform up to their standard in this Sukma then I believe everybody will agree that the sport should be dropped in the next Sukma.

"All the state associations have already started their preparation immediately after the Kuching Sukma in 2016, with the athletes training hard to ensure they are selected to represent the state, and to have it banned now will have a negative impact on them as well as a wastage of funds," he said.

He added that they will file an official appeal once the State Sukma exco meeting chaired by him is held in the coming weeks.

"We cannot promise we can change the decision by NSC but we will try to convey the message that we are behind the demand by Malaysia Weightlifting Federation (MWF) and Sabah Weightlifting Association (SWA) to review the decision.

"Whether the feedback is positive or negative is up to NSC, but I am very optimistic that if all the states are on the same wavelength there is a very good chance that the Sports Minister will also take notice."

Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.

Daily Express Malaysia

Meanwhile, some 70 athletes from 12 team are taking part in the three-day competition jointly organised by MWF and SWA with the cooperation of Sabah Sports Council.

Also present at the opening ceremony were Sabah Sports Board Chairman Datuk Louis Rampas, Sabah Sports Board General Manager Datuk Penyuki Matta, representatives from MWF and SWA officials led by President Philip Gisan.

Try 1 month for RM 18.00

Try 1 month for RM 18.00

Try 1 month for RM 18.00