KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's first medallist at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, Bonnie Bunyau Gustin, has wasted little time celebrating his achievement.
The powerlifting star has already turned his attention towards an even bigger target - the Aichi-Nagoya Para Asian Games in October.
Fresh from winning bronze in the men's lightweight event in Glasgow, Bonnie returned home on Monday to a warm reception at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), where he was greeted by Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Mordi Bimol.
While the bronze marked Malaysia's first podium finish of the Games, Bonnie made it clear that the result is merely another step in his preparations for the Para Asian Games, scheduled from Oct 18-24 in Japan.
"For the Para Asian Games, I will train even harder than this in preparation for Aichi-Nagoya," said the Sarawakian.
Bonnie lifted a best of 220kg to finish with 153.5 points in Glasgow, ensuring Malaysia opened its medal account at the Commonwealth Games.
He was bested by England's Mark Swan's 222kg effort worth 153.9 points and Roland Ezuruike of Nigeria's lift of 185kg for 153.9 points.
Mordi described Bonnie's achievement as a testament to the discipline and fighting spirit that have made him one of the country's most dependable athletes on the international stage.
"I want to congratulate Bonnie for finally delivering Malaysia's first medal in Glasgow. I am proud today because, as a fellow Sarawakian, I had the honour of welcoming another Sarawakian home with Malaysia's first medal of the Games.
"This proves his discipline and fighting spirit, which enabled him to win this medal," said Mordi.
Mordi also expressed hope that Bonnie's success would inspire the rest of the Malaysian contingent still competing in Scotland to finish the campaign strongly.
"I hope this achievement will inspire our other athletes. There are still a few days left in Glasgow, and I wish everyone still competing the very best. Keep fighting and hopefully return home with the medals we are hoping for, for Malaysia," he said.
