KENINGAU: School athletics championships are not merely platforms for winning medals, but also important avenues for shaping discipline, leadership and the identity of the younger generation, said Assistant Minister of Finance Datuk Mohd Ishak Ayub.
He said student participation in sports activities should continue to be strengthened in line with the nation’s educational aspirations of producing students who are balanced academically, physically, emotionally and socially.
“I believe championships like this not only produce outstanding athletes, but also help shape a young generation that is disciplined, courageous in taking on challenges and capable of working as a team,” he said.
Ishak, who is also the Bingkor Assemblyman, said this when officiating the 53rd Apin-Apin Zone School Sports Council (MSS) Athletics Championship 2026 at the Keningau Sports Complex on Friday.
Also present were Keningau District Education Officer, the chairman of the championship organising committee, principals, headmasters, teachers, parents and participants from schools in the Apin-Apin Zone.
He also reminded students to appreciate the opportunities given to them and to use sports as a medium to build self-confidence and fighting spirit.
“My dear students, victory is not measured solely by medals, but also by effort, discipline and the determination to rise despite challenges.
“Today, some of you may emerge victorious while others may not succeed. However, never regard failure as the end,” he said.
According to him, true success is born from the courage to keep trying and the determination not to give up easily in the face of competition.
“Do not give up easily because every great athlete starts with small steps and dedicated training.
“Who knows, from this field may emerge outstanding athletes from Keningau and the Apin-Apin Zone who will one day bring glory to Sabah and Malaysia,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ishak also expressed appreciation to teachers and parents, whom he described as the backbone of students’ success through their continuous support, guidance and commitment.
He hoped the tournament would serve as a platform to strengthen ties of friendship among schools in the Apin-Apin Zone while instilling sportsmanship among students.
“Compete in a healthy manner, respect referees and opponents, and uphold integrity throughout the tournament,” he said.
At the event, he also congratulated the organising committee for successfully conducting the championship before officially declaring the 53rd Apin-Apin Zone MSS Athletics Championship 2026 open.
