KUCHING: The flag-off for the SOPMA Baton Run 2025’s first stop in Miri on May 4 will be officiated by Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
The event, which aims to bring together 4,500 participants across Sarawak, is a key initiative in support of deaf sports and the deaf community.
The announcement came following a courtesy visit by the organising committee of the SOPMA Baton Run 2025 to Lee at his office in Bangunan Baitulmakmur here today, where they formally invited him to launch the event.
Expressing his strong support, Lee reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives that benefit the deaf community, highlighting his longstanding involvement with the Sarawak Society for the Deaf and the Sarawak Games for the Deaf since his tenure as Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports.
“I have always admired the determination and resilience of deaf athletes. Their spirit in overcoming challenges and competing at high levels is truly commendable,” he said.
He encouraged public participation in the SOPMA Baton Run 2025 and emphasised the importance of fostering inclusivity in sports.
The run will proceed from Miri to Bintulu on May 18, followed by Sibu on May 25, before culminating in Kuching on June 8.
Organising chairman Victor Hii Lik Nguong said that the event’s primary objective is to raise funds for SOPMA XXII Sarawak 2025 and other annual sporting activities.
He also outlined the targeted participation numbers: Miri (1,000), Bintulu (1,000), Sibu (1,000), and Kuching (1,500).
Hii expressed hope that the run would help identify and nurture sporting talent among deaf athletes from both urban and rural areas in Sarawak.
For more information and registration details, participants can visit the official SOPMA Sarawak website at https://www.ticket2u.com.my/event/40069/sopma-baton-run-2025.
