By KERNI PUAH sarawakstar@thestar.com.my
OLYMPIC silver medalist Pandelela Rinong deserves due recognition for her achievement in the Youth Olympic Games 2010 in Singapore.
Only one medal was expected from Pandelela but Sarawak’s diving sensation delivered two silver medals for Malaysia during the games.
The Bidayuh lass took the silver in the girls’ 10m platform and in the 3m springboard event recently. She finished second behind China’s Liu Jiao in both events at the Tao Payoh swimming complex.
Social Development and Urbanisation Minister Datuk Seri William Mawan said the state was very proud of Pandelela as she was the pride of Malaysia and would reward her with incentives.
Pandelela is the first Malaysian woman to win the Olympic medal.
Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) president Ik Pahon Joyik hoped Pandelela’s achievements would inspire other youths to excel in all fields.
He said that DBNA would make her its Ambassador for Youths to inspire others to emulate her success.
She will also be invited to talk at a youth workshop organised by DBNA next month.
“She will share with the participants how she struggled to achieve what she has done today,” he added.
Pahon, also the permanent secretary to the Tourism and Heritage Development Ministry, said that DBNA would think of long-term incentives for her, adding that the association had also rewarded her for her past achievements.
Meanwhile, DBNA exco member Joseph Jindy said: “The Bidayuh are very proud of Pandelela. We in DBNA and all members of the Bidayuh community praise her for carrying the Bidayuh spirit to represent the country.”
He added that Pandelela, from Kampung Jugan in Bau near Kuching, should be recognised for her excellent achievements to spur her to perform better in future competitions, including the Commonwealth Games in New Dehli in October .
After the Youth Olympic Games, Pandelela will fly to Kunming in China for intensive training in preparation for the competition in New Delhi.
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