KUCHING, Sept 23 — National powerlifting champion Bonnie Bunyau Gustin lit up the opening ceremony of the 2024 Malaysia Para Games (Para SUKMA) last night at Unity Stadium, Kuching. His torch-lighting, fresh off defending his gold in the men’s 72kg category at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, marked the start of the competition for over 1,200 athletes from 15 contingents.

The dazzling opening, attended by around 3,000 spectators, featured a laser light show and was officiated by Sarawak Governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. Joining him were his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh.

After speeches from Abang Johari and Hannah, and a symbolic launch by Wan Junaidi, the Para SUKMA flag was raised by the Royal Malaysian Navy, marking the event’s return to Sarawak after eight years. Leeyendy Jisen Abdullah, representing athletics, led the athletes' oath, while Arang Kanna Sondarajan represented the technical officials.

A captivating performance followed, featuring Alena Murang on the sape and Sarawak-born singer Bob Yusof, who delivered a stirring rendition of “When You Tell Me That You Love Me.” Former and current Sarawakian athletes, including ex-Paralympians Jamery Siga (swimming), Batricia Richael Santau (athletics), Fatimah Wagimin (powerlifting), and Ting Ing Hock (table tennis), accompanied Bonnie as he lit the torch.

The event closed with a traditional dance performance, Segulai Sejalai, by child dancers, followed by a grand fireworks display. Athletes will compete for 328 gold medals across various sports, including athletics, powerlifting, badminton, swimming, table tennis, lawn bowls, archery, boccia, tenpin bowling, and chess at Para SUKMA 2024.