By Amirul Salam Hasan, Corporate Communication Office
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) successfully hosted the 8th Malaysian Inter-Asasi Games (SAM2025) recently. The event taking place at UMT’s Tengku Muhammad Ismail Sports Complex was filled with great excitement and sportsmanship.
UMT’s STEM Foundation Centre (PASTEM) was entrusted with organizing SAM2025, with full support from the Council of Deans/Directors of Malaysian Public University Foundation Programmes.
The two-day tournament beginning 7 February saw participation from contingents representing various institutions, including Malaysian public university foundation programmes, Malaysian polytechnics, and Kelantan matriculation colleges. Various sports events were contested, and intense competition was on display among participants striving for championship titles.
The closing ceremony was officiated by UMT Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim. He expressed his appreciation to all athletes, officials, and volunteers who contributed to the success of the championship.
Prof. Zamri said SAM2025 was not just a platform for foundation students to showcase their sports talents but also to shape their character, foster sportsmanship, and strengthen relationships between higher education institutions in Malaysia.
“This championship provided students with the opportunity to hone their talents, enhance their discipline, and develop their teamwork. I believe foundation students’ involvement in sports not only benefits their academic achievement but also helps shape more dynamic and holistic graduates,” said Prof. Zamri during his speech at the SAM2025 closing ceremony.
“I would like to congratulate all the athletes who emerged as champions in this tournament. However, more important than winning was the spirit of sportsmanship displayed by all participants. Every experience, whether sweet or bitter, is a valuable lesson,” Prof. Zamri added.
He also expressed hope that such tournaments continue to be held in the future to strengthen sports development at the foundation level and beyond.
Assisting PASTEM) in organizing SAM2025 were UMT’s Sports and Recreation Centre and several strategic partners, including the Terengganu State Sports Council, the Terengganu State Education Department, and the Terengganu State Tourism Department.
Nearly 200 STEM Foundation students sponsored by the Yayasan Perkasa Siswa under the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) also provided assistance as volunteers throughout the championship.