A total of 2,303 athletes from 20 contingents from public universities across the country are competing in the 45th Universiti Malaysia (Sukum) Staff Sports Championship at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) from Aug 8 to 16.

Twenty-three sport events are being contested offering 139 gold medals.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif said organising Sukum is seen able to unite and raise spirits among the staff of all public universities in the country.

“In addition to providing a field to compete, sports also allow participating staff to exchange ideas and able to improve healthy lifestyles.

“In fact, through sports, the spirit of unity among university staff, especially in developing the quality of sports and education at the university level, can be fostered.

“I am sure and believe that Sukum is able to uphold sports along with education in this country,” he said.

Dr Mohd Arifin said this when speaking in conjunction with the 45th Sukum opening ceremony at the UMS Stadium.

He said the involvement of officials and athletes in their respective contingents in the event is very helpful in terms of national sport development through development of infrastructure, sports facilities and athlete preparation.

Meanwhile, UMS Vice Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor, who was also present, said in his speech that the field of sports in this country can be considered as an industry that is not only capable of producing high performance athletes, but capable of improving knowledge.