Bernama Runner-Up Of Traditional Games In HAWANA Sports Carnival 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 21 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) contingent emerged as the overall runners-up in the traditional games events held in conjunction with the 2025 National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) Sports Carnival, at IWK Eco Park, Pantai Dalam here today.

Bernama clinched five gold medals, six silver and three bronze, earning a total of RM3,000 in prize money through victories in tug of war (men), galah panjang (women), tuju tin (women), checkers (men) and batu seremban (women).

The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) were the champions after collecting six gold, three silver and four bronze medals, enabling them to take home RM4,000 in cash prizes along with the championship trophy.

Third place went to the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM), while Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) finished fourth, with both receiving cash prizes of RM2,000 and RM800, respectively.

Bernama Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin congratulated all winners and participating teams.

She said the inaugural traditional sports competition held in conjunction with the HAWANA sports carnival not only tested physical strength and mental endurance but also served as an excellent platform to strengthen ties and foster familiarity among media organisations and related agencies.

Bernama tug-of-war participant Mohd Norzaidi Arjunaidi said team spirit and mutual support among members were the key factors behind the squad’s success in winning the event.

“There was a moment when we were almost defeated because all the team members fell, but we quickly got back up. Words of encouragement from the team and Bernama supporters lifted our spirits again, enabling us to pull the rope through to victory,” he said.

Meanwhile, Bernama tuju tin participant Nursyafiqah Izzati Haspawari said that although her team made last-minute preparations without specific training, they still gave their full commitment in the competition.

“We only managed to practise this morning, but that did not stop us from securing first place,” she said.

Nursyafiqah added that traditional sports events should be continued by introducing the games to the younger generation, while reviving nostalgic values and strengthening bonds among participants of different age groups.

-- BERNAMA