PUTRAJAYA, June 20 — The Malaysian contingent is targeting 35 gold medals at the Asean University Games (AUG), which will be held from June 25 to July 6 in Surabaya and Malang, Indonesia.
The target was announced by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, who hopes national athletes can dominate their respective events.
“I understand 35 gold medals is the target for the Malaysian contingent, but I believe we might achieve more than that.
“The most important thing is that athletes give their best, because nothing is impossible. In sports, what drives athletes to achieve success is their fighting spirit,” he said after handing over the Jalur Gemilang to chef de mission Suhairi Ismail here today.
Malaysia, represented by 382 athletes and officials, will participate in 18 of the 20 events in the biennial event.
Malaysia won 49 gold, 83 silver and 52 bronze medals in AUG 2022, held in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand.
Zambry said incentives for medallists at the games have been increased to RM3,000 for gold, RM2,000 for silver, and RM1,500 for bronze.
Meanwhile, sprinter Umar Osman has set a dual mission for his AUG debut, aiming to win gold and break his national 400m record of 46.09s, set at the World University Games in Chengdu, China, in August.
“I hope to strike gold at the AUG. I also want to break the national record, but it depends on my condition.
“After the Malaysia Open, I feel fresh and free from injuries,” said Umar, who is flagbearer for the Malaysian contingent.
— Bernama
