Kuching: All medal winners for the 51 events contested in the 22nd Malaysian Deaf Sports Games (SOPMA XXII) 2025 received financial incentives from the Sarawak government as a token of appreciation for their success and fighting spirit.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sarawak Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah announced that all the gold medallists received RM5,000, silver medallists were awarded RM2,000, and bronze medallists took home RM1,000.

She stated that this initiative marks a historic moment for SOPMA and reflects the Sarawak government’s commitment to fostering a spirit of inclusiveness and national unity through sports. Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah highlighted the recognition from Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, emphasizing sports as a unifying force across regional borders and beyond.

During the closing ceremony of SOPMA XXII, Fatimah described SOPMA as not just a competitive arena but also a symbol of unity and inclusivity for the deaf
community throughout the country. She emphasized the platform’s role in empowering athletes to excel at state, national, and international levels.

The Sabah contingent emerged as the overall champion of this year’s Games, securing 17 gold medals, 13 silver, and eight bronze. Sarawak followed in second place, with the Federal Territories finishing third.

A total of 14 contingents from across Malaysia participated in the Games, competing in five sports: athletics, badminton, futsal, tenpin bowling, and orienteering, since the event began on October 1.