KUCHING: Sarawak’s swimming squad is gearing up for a big test at the Borneo Games Kuching 2025, with head coach Hii Hieng Chiong striking a balance between cautious optimism and confidence in his 20-member team.
Hii, who officially took over the squad on June 1, said while Sarawak has long carried a reputation as a swimming powerhouse in Malaysia, the challenge ahead lies in facing new opponents whose form and strength remain largely unknown.
“I think after a long while, we can decide again. But we don’t know how the performance of the other swimmers will be, because it’s the first time,” Hii told Sarawak Tribune after a recent training session.
The 77-year-old veteran coach believes his swimmers have shown commitment and resilience in preparation despite the uncertainty.
He credited their hard work since June and the recent addition of Chinese coach Li Zhong to the training programme.
“They have been doing quite hard work and I think they can deliver. I think they will be trying their best,” Hii said.
Sarawak will field a 20-strong squad comprising 11 boys and nine girls. Among the key medal hopefuls are national team returnees Jeff Chua and Hii Puong Wei, who are expected to play a crucial role in bolstering the state’s medal tally.
Rising state swimmers such as Ryan Colby, Chereen Ngo, Kelly Ang, and Clarie Lau are also seen as prospects capable of making podium breakthroughs.
Hii said at least five of the nine female swimmers have a strong chance of finishing among the medalists, underscoring the depth of talent in the women’s squad.
“We have two swimmers from the national squad coming back, and I think they will help a lot. Plus, one or two of our other swimmers are quite okay, and we can compete with them,” he said.
Hii, who has over five decades of coaching experience, pointed out that conditions and the level of competition on the day would be key in determining Sarawak’s final medal haul.
“The condition is quite okay until now. Everything depends on how the competition environment is,” he added.
With swimming traditionally one of Sarawak’s strongest sports, expectations from fans and the state are naturally high. But for Hii, the ultimate goal remains for his charges to give their best performance in the pool.
“I’m hoping that they will try their best,” he said.
The swimming events, scheduled from Sept 25–28 at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre, are among the disciplines expected to deliver significant results for the host state.
