The Brunei Darussalam School Games (BDSG) saw 34 new records set at the recent games— 23 in athletics and 11 in swimming, including two new national swimming records.
This was highlighted by Head of the Physical and Recreation Division at the Department of Co-Curricular Education Awang Sukardi bin Kaderi, in his remarks as chairperson of the Record-Breaking Incentive Presentation Ceremony for Athletics and Swimming events at the 2nd BDSG 2024 on Thursday
He added that the BDSG serves not only as a platform for competition but also as an avenue for students to gain valuable experiences beyond the classroom. It aims to instill noble values such as teamwork, cooperation, camaraderie, national identity, and adherence to rules.
He noted that these values have been evident throughout the two editions of the BDSG, contributing to the holistic development of student-athletes who will, in turn, play a role in Brunei Darussalam’s progress and sporting excellence.
The ceremony, held at the Lecture Hall of the Sports School, was organised by the Ministry of Education through the Physical and Recreation Division, Department of Co-Curricular Education. Acting Director of Co-Curricular Education Awang Mohammad Norilham bin Haji Jais, attended as the guest of honour.
Reflecting on the inaugural BDSG in November 2022, he noted that the competition initially featured four sports—badminton, athletics, swimming, and sepak takraw—engaging approximately 800 participants, including student-athletes, contingent officials, technical officers, and tournament management staff.
By 2023, the number of sports expanded to seven with the inclusion of netball, basketball, and pencak silat, increasing participation to around 1,600 individuals.
BDSG is targeted at student-athletes aged 18 and below from secondary schools, colleges, and Form Six centres, with participants grouped into designated clusters. It represents a rebranding and enhancement of previously organised championships, aligning with Brunei Darussalam’s preparation for regional and international school sports competitions under the Asian Schools Sports Federation (ASSF) and ASEAN Schools Sports Council (ASSC).
The programme has also identified promising young athletes, including those with special needs. With BDSG now an annual event, the department believes it will contribute to nurturing future national athletes.
Awang Sukardi also announced that incentives have been introduced for athletes who set new records, particularly in athletics and swimming. Moving forward, incentives will also be extended to those who break championship and national records.
He expressed hope that such incentives would serve as motivation for athletes to strive for excellence in their respective sports.
The ceremony concluded with a video presentation on BDSG, followed by the awarding of certificates and Record-Breaking Incentive prizes for 2024. – Lyna Mohammad
