SHAH ALAM, Sept 4 — Fresh from topping the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA), Selangor is now targeting 60 gold medals at the Para SUKMA from September 5 to 14.
Contingent chief Lim Yi Wei said she was confident Selangor could achieve the target, with home advantage expected to boost its chances of securing a strong medal haul.
“This time, all the training has been more structured, with local authorities and various agencies providing strong cooperation in making facilities available,” she told Media Selangor.
Lim said the athletes had also expressed satisfaction with the state administration’s efforts, particularly those of the Selangor State Sports Council (MSN), in looking after their welfare.
“They are satisfied. The facilities provided are comprehensive, which lifts their spirits, while allowances are also being paid. We hope these efforts will help Selangor achieve victory,” she said.
She also plans to meet the Selangor Persons with Disabilities (OKU) Action Council to identify new talent as part of a long-term initiative to develop para sports.
Lim said such efforts were necessary as the state currently lacked female para athletes.
“Some feel that becoming an athlete will change their body shape. That is why some are reluctant. So, we will discuss this with the OKU Action Council so that we can identify and nurture new talent,” she said.
Para SUKMA features 10 sports comprising 369 events, including swimming, athletics, badminton, table tennis, tenpin bowling, lawn bowls, archery, chess, boccia and powerlifting.
Challenge of bringing home gold
Meanwhile, the powerlifting squad is drawing on the experience of senior athletes who have competed at major championships to motivate Selangor’s Para SUKMA contingent in its quest for gold.
Coach Mohd Nazrisaarizal Mat Saad said the approach was also aimed at strengthening the athletes’ mental preparedness, as some had limited experience competing at major championships.
“Most of our athletes this time are from the development squad. They lack experience at major championships and some are not confident, so we brought in senior athletes to share their experiences.
“This helps them build confidence. The sharing sessions also allow them to gain new knowledge, enabling them to be better prepared physically and mentally,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Mohd Nazrisaarizal was confident his charges could produce their best performances and had a strong chance of winning several medals.
“We will not waste our home advantage. This time, we are fielding more athletes than at the previous Games, so our chances of winning and bringing home medals are greater.
“Based on their performances so far, we are targeting four gold medals in powerlifting. We have set that target based on our previous achievements,” he said.
