Kota Kinabalu: Luyang Assemblyman Samuel Wong said Sabah’s young sporting talents need a stronger and more systematic support ecosystem to fulfil their potential.
He cited the achievements of a 14-year-old taekwondo prodigy, Charis Leong, as an example of what the State’s youth are capable of.
Samuel made the call after meeting Charis, a Poomsae specialist from Kota Kinabalu High School, at his office recently, where he also presented her with financial assistance ahead of her participation in the 15th TM-KBS-Milo National Junior Taekwondo Championship at N9 Arena, Negeri Sembilan.
Charis, currently ranked No. 1 in the 12-14 years poomsae category nationally, has amassed 16 gold, six silver and four bronze medals across state, national and international competitions, competing at intervals of roughly every two months to maintain her ranking and competitive edge.
“Young talents like Charis deserve continued encouragement and a stronger support ecosystem to help them fully develop their potential,” Samuel said.
“Sabah has many talented youths with the capability to excel at higher levels if they are given adequate opportunities, exposure and long-term support,” he added.
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He praised Charis for demonstrating discipline, consistency and determination throughout her taekwondo career, describing her as one of Sabah’s most promising young athletes.
He also urged the Sabah Government, particularly the State Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Ministry, to strengthen long-term athlete development policies through more consistent funding, competition grants, sports science support, training exposure and structured development pathways.
“Sabah does not lack talent. What we need is a stronger and more systematic ecosystem to nurture and develop our young talents so they can compete on greater stages and continue bringing pride to Sabah and Malaysia,” he said.
He added that he will continue supporting Sabah youths excelling in sports, culture and other fields as they represent the State at higher levels of competition.
