ASEAN Para Games a game-changer for disability sports in Singapore: Lawrence Wong
Some 3,000 para athletes and officials from around the region will be in Singapore for the 8th ASEAN Para Games.
With its largest contingent of 166 para-athletes representing the city state, the multi-sports event from 3 to 9 December is set to be a game-changer for disability sports in Singapore, says Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) Lawrence Wong.
A lot more can be done about the state of disability sports in Singapore, said Wong on the sidelines of a para-football tournament at Toa Payoh on Sunday (27 Sept).
"Awareness levels are not high, participation rates can be better, and there are people who may not be aware of the benefits of participating in sports, or they might be afraid because of individual insecurities and fear,” he said.
Wong said he hopes that the ASEAN Para Games will inspire more of the disabled community to take part in sports. "And that's ultimately our goal — not just to have a successful games, but to leave behind a lasting legacy for disability sports."
"In terms of budget, we have set aside something close to $75 million for this Para Games" the Minister added.
Part of the budget has been dedicated to community engagement activities. Singaporeans can look forward to roadshows to try out para-sports and opportunities to interact with the para-athletes representing the nation in the months leading up to the Para Games.
