Committee members share thoughts on improving future Para Sukma editions

KUCHING (Sept 28): Several committee members for the 21st Para Malaysia Games (Para Sukma) have shared their thoughts on how to ensure smoother organisation for future events.

Cecilia Resa, 41, suggested having a uniform catering service would facilitate food distribution.

“Although everything has gone smoothly so far, it is important to simplify the process for athletes when and where they pick up their meals, especially considering the participants are para-athletes,” she told The Borneo Post when met today.

Cecilia is the person-in-charge of the food distribution committee at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre and her committee oversees food distribution for the police, state contingents and dignitaries.

She added that if possible, food distribution committee members should be located in an air-conditioned area to prevent food from spoiling.

“The food (prepared) must be consumed within four hours of preparation but sometimes, the food is not picked up on time,” she explained.

Meanwhile, 39-year-old Dr Sandeep Singh, who is a medical officer at the static clinic at the aquatic centre, emphasised the importance of increasing manpower for the clinic in future editions of Para Sukma.

“In terms of facilities, everything is fine. However, having more manpower would better cater to the athletes’ needs. The static clinic treats an average of four to five athletes per day,” he shared.

He noted the clinic has been fully operation from 8am-8pm since the first day of Para Sukma.

“We received a few cases from different states, treating and discharging some while others were referred to the hospital,” he said.

As for Protocol and Event Management Unit head Wan Fauzi Wan Ismail, 52, Para Sukma should be publicised more effectively.

“This is to ensure people are aware this event seldom occurs in Sarawak. Para Sukma rotates among the 14 states in Malaysia and is held every two years. Just imagine, it would be another 28 years before Sarawak hosts it again so we must organise it in the best possible way,” he stated.

He explained his committee oversees the event’s itinerary, including its opening ceremony, gala dinner and closing ceremony.

“This involves coordinating the arrival of guests, including the guest of honour, and ensuring everything goes according to plan with performances, prayers, symbolic openings and so on,” he said.

He noted approximately 3,500 attendees are expected at the closing ceremony tonight.