KUCHING: Special Olympics Sarawak is set to represent Malaysia as part of the national contingent competing at the 2026 Special Olympics East Asia Regional Bowling Competition, which will take place from 4 to 7 September 2026 at Top Bowl Tenpin Bowling, Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong.

The Special Olympics Sarawak team will compete as part of the Special Olympics Malaysia contingent, representing Malaysia.

“The regional competition brings together Special Olympics athletes with intellectual disabilities from across the East Asia region, providing an important platform for athletes to demonstrate their sporting abilities, build confidence, gain international competition experience and strengthen friendships across borders through the power of sport,” it said.

Special Olympics Sarawak said this in a statement after a courtesy visit to the Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah on Thursday.

A total of eight countries and territories will participate in the competition, namely Hong Kong, China, Macau, Bharat, Chinese Taipei, Singapore, Germany and Malaysia.

Representing Special Olympics Malaysia, the Malaysian contingent comprises four athletes from Special Olympics Sarawak and four athletes from Special Olympics Selangor, supported by two coaches from each state.

The participation of Special Olympics Sarawak in the Malaysian contingent reflects the state's continued commitment to developing inclusive sports and creating meaningful opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities to compete at the regional and international level.

Special Olympics Sarawak said that for the Sarawak athletes, competing in Hong Kong represents an important milestone in their sporting journey.

“The competition will provide them with an opportunity to showcase their bowling skills, discipline, determination and competitive spirit while gaining valuable experience competing alongside athletes from different countries and territories.

“Participation in this competition is not only about winning medals. It is an opportunity for our athletes to demonstrate their abilities, build confidence and gain valuable international competition experience.

“Most importantly, we want them to enjoy the experience, achieve their personal best and represent Sarawak and Malaysia with pride,” it said.

The participation of the Sarawak athletes also highlights the important role played by their families, coaches, volunteers, supporters and partner organisations in nurturing sporting talent and creating an inclusive sporting environment.

“Their collective support has been instrumental in preparing the athletes for this international competition,” it said.

Special Olympics Sarawak extends its sincere appreciation to all parties who have contributed to the athletes' preparation and participation in the 2026 Special Olympics East Asia Regional Bowling Competition. -UKASnews