KUCHING: Sarawak’s badminton team is aiming to turn home advantage into a medal sweep when the shuttlecock flies at the Borneo Games 2025 from Sept 24 to 28 at Stadium Perpaduan here.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat, who is also the chef de mission (CDM) of the Sarawak contingent, said Sarawak is eyeing top results across all seven categories contested.
“I hope our badminton team will achieve outstanding results and bring home as many gold medals as possible.
“With seven categories being contested, we want to maximise every opportunity,” he said when met by Sarawak Tribune ahead of the tournament at the Stadium Perpaduan, here today (Sept 23).
Team manager Datuk Dr Wan Khalik Wan Muhammad said preparations had intensified, with players now training twice a day to sharpen form and boost endurance.
“We are doubling our efforts. Previously it was one session, but now the players are going through two sessions daily before the competition.
“We place strong emphasis on fighting spirit, whether in singles or doubles, across both men’s and women’s categories,” he explained.
Wan Khalik, who is also Sarawak Badminton Association (SBA) Honorary Secretary, added that while Sarawak is determined to deliver medals, they are also aware of the tough competition coming from Sabah, FT Labuan and East Kalimantan, who are fielding their best athletes.
“As CDM, Datuk Dr Ripin has reminded us that our task is to push for as many medals as possible.
“We respect the strength of our opponents, but we will give our best throughout the championship,” he said.
Badminton, being one of the highlight events of the Borneo Games 2025, will be contested from Sept 24 to 28 at Stadium Perpaduan, where strong home support is expected to boost Sarawak’s bid for regional glory.
