BINTULU: Over 500 participants from diverse backgrounds took part in the SOPMA Baton Run 2025, a charity event aimed at raising awareness and funds for the deaf sports community in Malaysia.
Organised by the Sarawak Deaf Sports Association, the event forms part of the promotional efforts and preparations for the upcoming Malaysian Deaf Sports Games (SOPMA) 2025, which Sarawak will proudly host next year.
The event was officiated by Steven Kong Kai Seng, Special Duties Officer II to the Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, representing Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
In a speech delivered by Steven, Tiong highlighted the government’s commitment to empowering special needs groups, including the deaf community, ensuring that they are not left behind and can continue to enjoy a more sustainable and inclusive quality of life.
He noted that the empowerment of such communities is a key agenda for both the federal government under Malaysia MADANI and the Sarawak State Government.
However, he stressed that the government cannot realise these goals alone.
Support from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) such as the Sarawak Deaf Sports Association is both crucial and greatly appreciated.
“I also encourage more NGOs to join hands with the government in delivering various welfare initiatives, especially within the Bintulu area,” he added.
Tiong also called on private companies here to take on a more active role in supporting the deaf community through donations, sponsorships or corporate social responsibility (CSR) partnerships that can create mutual benefits.
He extended his congratulations to the Sarawak Deaf Sports Association for the successful organisation of the programme, and expressed hope that similar events will be held more frequently in the future.
“As the Member of Parliament for this constituency, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing is always ready to support any effort aimed at strengthening the wellbeing of our community,” Kong said.
Also present were Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) Deputy General Manager, Abdul Rahim Abdullah, Sarawak Deaf Sports Association’s Chairman, Ko Ming Liang, and the SOPMA Baton Run 2025 Organising Committee Chairman, Hii Lik Nguong.
