KUCHING — National powerlifting champion Bonnie Bunyau Gustin lit up the 2024 Malaysia Para Games (Para Sukma) opening ceremony at the Unity Stadium last night, as he was honoured with the role of lighting the torch.
Fresh from defending his gold medal in the men’s 72kg category at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Bonnie’s torch-lighting symbolised the start of the competition, which will see over 1,200 athletes from 15 contingents participating in the biennial event.
The grand opening, attended by around 3,000 spectators, featured a dazzling laser light show and was officiated by Sarawak Governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. His wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh were also present.
The ceremony began with a segment titled Semangat Juang, featuring performances by two disabled individuals, a silat group from Henry Gurney School Puncak Borneo, and an impressive drum performance by representatives from the Tabaubrian Lion and Dragon Drum Association.
Following the performances, the parade of contingents began with Terengganu and concluded with Sarawak, which was met with roaring cheers from the home crowd.
After speeches by Abang Johari and Hannah, Sarawak Governor Wan Junaidi symbolically launched the event. The Para Sukma flag was then hoisted by members of the Royal Malaysian Navy, marking the return of the games to Sarawak after eight years.
Home athlete Leeyendy Jisen Abdullah led the athlete’s oath, while Arang Kanna Sondarajan represented the technical officials in the oath-taking ceremony.
The excitement continued with a stunning sape performance by Alena Murang, followed by Sarawak-born singer Bob Yusof’s rendition of ‘When You Tell Me That You Love Me’.
The highlight of the night was the torch-lighting, led by Bonnie, who was accompanied by former and current Sarawakian athletes, including former Paralympians Jamery Siga (swimming), Batricia Richael Santau (athletics), Fatimah Wagimin (powerlifting), and Ting Ing Hock (table tennis).
The evening concluded with a vibrant traditional dance performance titled Segulai Sejalai by a group of young dancers, followed by a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the night sky.
A total of 328 gold medals will be contested at Para Sukma 2024, with athletes competing in athletics, powerlifting, badminton, swimming, table tennis, lawn bowls, archery, boccia, tenpin bowling, and chess. — September 23, 2024