ALOR STAR – Kedah is targeting to win 25 gold medals at the 20th Malaysia Games (Sukma) scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur from September 16 to 24.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said the haul was expected to come from 31 contested sports through 520 athletes accompanied by 103 coaches, 38 managers, 75 secretariat members and 37 additional officials.
“We are targeting 25 gold medals but for the silver and bronze, we do not have a target. What is important is that the gold medal target is achieved.
“The state government is also offering rewards to outstanding athletes, with RM3,000 for a gold medal in the individual category, RM2,000 for silver and RM1,000 for bronze,” he said after the handing-over of the Kedah contingent flag, here, today in conjunction with Sukma 2022.
To further motivate the athletes, additional rewards will be given to those who break the national records.
Sanusi said the athletes and coaches for each event had made thorough preparations and undergone training but because of the Covid-19 pandemic, everything had to be put on hold.
“Among the sports we aim to win gold medals in are the combat and racquet sports and also sailing. The sailing event will be held in Langkawi and our athletes are already familiar with the conditions there which will give the team an advantage.
“I hope that throughout the event, all our athletes can maintain discipline in addition to preserving the good name of Kedah. Make the state proud and always believe in the ‘Kedah Fighter’ slogan,” he added. – Bernama, September 8, 2022
