SELANGOR: Johannes Gabriel Chew dedicated his Para SUKMA Selangor 2026 gold medal to the memory of late fellow Sarawak para powerlifter Azlan Mos, whose legacy continues to inspire the state’s strength-sport fraternity.
Johannes won the men’s up to 65kg category with a best lift of 135kg, finishing ahead of Penang’s Muhammad Aufa Syafiq Sabaruddin, who lifted 114kg for silver, while Perak’s Muhammad Khairi Abd Rahman took bronze with 113kg.
Johannes said he was proud to secure his second SUKMA gold and was determined to put in his best lift after securing the title.
“I’m proud to get the gold. This is my second gold at SUKMA, so I am very proud,” he told reporters at the Selangor International Trade Centre (SITC) today (Sept 7).
He added that he hoped to continue improving his lifts and set his sights on competing at a higher level in the future.
Johannes also dedicated his victory to his family, teammates and coaches, while remembering Azlan, who had previously competed in the same weight category.
“This gold is for my family, my team, my coaches and our former team member, the late Azlan Mos, who competed in this category,” he said.
Azlan passed away on July 8, but his achievements continue to be remembered by the Sarawak para powerlifting fraternity.
At the Para SUKMA XXI Sarawak 2024, Azlan delivered two gold medals for the Sarawak contingent and set a new Games record in the 54kg category with a 150kg lift.
His achievements have since become part of the legacy carried by Sarawak’s para powerlifters, with Johannes now adding another gold to the state’s tally in Selangor.
For Johannes, however, the victory was about more than standing on top of the podium — it was also an opportunity to honour someone who had helped pave the way for the team.
