KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob today announced a cash reward of RM20,000 to athletes who broke the national record in the 2022 Higher Education Institution Games (SUKIPT).

He challenged games athletes to set new national records, regardless of the type of sport they are taking part in.

"It is my great hope that a programme like SUKIPT will produce more athletes from higher education institutions (HEIs) who are top performers and have the mind-set of champions in major tournaments at the international level.

"Those who are successful, we will get a cash reward amounting to RM20,000. To all athletes, good luck," he said in his speech at the SUKIPT 2022 Opening Ceremony at the Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) Stadium, Tanjung Malim, tonight.   

Also present was Higher Education Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad.

SUKIPT is a biennial event that is part of the Higher Education Ministry's efforts to develop and advance sports at the IPT, national and international levels, in an integrated manner.

SUKIPT participation is open to all IPT athletes in Malaysia

Ismail Sabri pointed out that many things can be linked to sports and not merely to health. It also teaches about discipline, team spirit, strategy, decision making, and so on.

In fact, he said sports can also fuel the spirit of patriotism and unity in the Malaysian Family.

"Just look at when there is a football or badminton match, especially at the international level. Regardless of race or religion, we sit at the same table with our friends at the restaurant to cheer for the national team.

"The fact is that sports can provide its own aura, not only for those who compete but also to those who watch," he said.

Giving an example, Ismail Sabri said a recent viral incident on social media involved national badminton coach, Hendrawan, who gave his shoes to Samuel Ricketts during the recent Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, so the Jamaican can continue playing.

In fact, he said Siti Shazwana Ajak's action at the Vietnam Sea Games can also be used as an example when the country's martial artist protected and covered the hair of her opponent, who had her headscarf pulled off.

"This is the spirit of fair play that overcomes everything. With high spirit, competition is not an issue.

"This is the spirit that needs to be there and become one of the Malaysian Family core's, which is openness," he said.

The Prime Minister also congratulated the Malaysian contingent for placing second overall in the 20th Asean University Games, which concluded on Aug 6 in Ubon, Thailand.

Even more proud, he said, the medal collection far exceeded the set target set.

"Congratulations and well done once again!

"Our young people are simply amazing!" he said.