Bonnie Bunyau Gustin has just set a new record by securing the first gold medal for Malaysia at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games today (Saturday, 28 August).
The national powerlifting champion came out on top in the men’s 72kg category by shattering the record at 228kg. Egyptian athlete Mahmoud Attia came in second (silver) with 191kg, while Micky Yule of Great Britain round up the 3rd spot (bronze) with 182kg.
What’s even more impressive is that the 22-year-old Sarawakian, who was born in Serian, also broke the previous Paralympics record set by Rasool Mohsin from Iraq. Back in 2016, Rasool lifted 227kg during the event in Rio.
Many Malaysians and public figures have taken to social media to congratulate Bonnie Bunyau on his amazing achievement. Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Sion said, “Congratulations Bonnie Bunyau Gustin for your success in obtaining the first gold medal for Malaysia.”
Meanwhile, eight-time world champion Datuk Nicol David tweeted, “Woohoo!!! That’s amazing! Congratulations Bonnie Bunyau on the first Gold medal for Malaysia!! Super proud of you! #demimalaysia”
Woohoo!!! That’s amazing! Congratulations Bonnie Bunyau on the first Gold medal for Malaysia!! Super proud of you! #demimalaysia ♥️🇲🇾🙌🏼 https://t.co/wjJ8bq9QNy
— Nicol David (@NicolDavid) August 28, 2021
Watch the moment he won gold here:
Sources: The Star, Malay Mail.
