Irene Jane Henry’s Commonwealth Bronze Proves Sabah Athletes Can Compete Globally

KUALA LUMPUR, AUGUST 2026 — Sabah weightlifter Irene Jane Henry’s success at the Commonwealth Games has demonstrated that athletes from the state are capable of competing at the highest international level when given consistent training, guidance and support.

Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said Irene’s achievement reflected not only her own discipline and hard work, but also the combined contribution of coaches, the Sabah Sports Council, the ministry and her family.

Nizam made the remarks while welcoming the 21-year-old athlete upon her arrival at Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

He stressed that parental involvement plays an important role in shaping an athlete’s success and that the responsibility of developing champions should not rest solely on athletes or sporting agencies.

Irene, who is from Tambunan, secured the bronze medal in the women’s 48kg weightlifting category.

Her result marked Malaysia’s first medal in women’s weightlifting at the Commonwealth Games since 2010 and ended a 16-year medal drought for Sabah-born athletes at the competition.

Sabah Sports School weightlifting coach Arrico Junmit was the last Sabah-born athlete to win a Commonwealth Games medal before Irene, having secured gold in the men’s event in 2010.

Nizam described Irene’s performance as a historic moment for Sabah and said her success had brought pride to both the state and the country.

He added that her achievement could inspire younger Sabah athletes to pursue excellence in sport while continuing to prioritise their education.

The minister also encouraged more parents in Sabah to support their children’s involvement in sports, saying stronger family backing could help the state produce more world-class athletes in the future.

In recognition of Irene’s achievement, the Sabah Government announced a RM10,000 cash incentive for the athlete.

She will also receive RM20,000 from the National Sports Council, bringing the total announced reward to RM30,000.

Nizam said the state incentive reflected the government’s commitment to recognising athletes who bring honour to Sabah and Malaysia on the international stage.

The reward is also intended to encourage other young athletes to remain committed to structured training and long-term sporting development.

Among those present at the airport to welcome Irene were Sabah Sports Council director Asneh Mohd Noor, deputy director Valerie Wong, Arrico Junmit and coach Stephen Gampion.

Irene’s breakthrough has strengthened hopes that more athletes from Sabah can achieve international success through coordinated support from families, coaches, sporting organisations and the government.

Her Commonwealth Games medal now stands as an important milestone for Sabah sport and a source of motivation for young athletes seeking to represent Malaysia on the global stage.