SIBU (July 1): Local table tennis players should not view imported players as a threat to their rankings in the state team, said Table Tennis Association of Sarawak (TTAS) vice president Dr Clement Cheng.

Instead, he urged, they should treasure the opportunity to play against and think of the positive impact of such players.

“Training and playing together with imported players will not only help upgrade the standard of the local players but will also, hopefully, in the long run, help the state to excel in the sport,” he explained.

Cheng was speaking at the closing of the Sarawak U-19 and U-15 Table Tennis Championships held here last weekend.

He dispelled the notion that imported players will deny the local players of a chance to shine.

Cheng, who is also Sibu Table Tennis Association (STTA) chairman, believes it all boils down to a player’s attitude that truly determine his success.

He cited the example of a 15-year-old top imported state player whom he met in Sarikei during the Sarawak Open qualifying matches.

“When I walked past him, he politely nodded and smiled at me. Honestly, nowadays, having humble and courteous young people with such attitude is rare,” he said.

Cheng revealed that he later sat down with the player for lunch and discovered his humility and calm demeanour which was nothing like the dominant force he displayed on court.

“I truly believes his success was not just due to his skills but more so because of his humility, politeness and great attitude.

“Hopefully, all the athletes here will not only become skilled players but also developed a gracious and well-mannered mentality,” Cheng added.

Meanwhile, a total of 20 players were selected to represent the state at the 43rd Milo Malaysia Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Championships to be held in Penang from Sept 16-21.

The Boy’s U19 players are Yip Wei Rong, Bryan Tieng, Edwin Tan, Tan Liong Rong and Daniel Ham while the Girl’s U19 players are Too Ying Xin, Joanne Chen, Jasyne Ngu, Audrey Han and Constance Tiong.

The U15 players are Jason Wong, Gabriel Yong, Jowen Kwan, Tan Liang Hua and Liew Xuan How (Boys), and Olivia Hwang, Ara Tiong, Chloe Hu, Nurqisya and Kong Zhi Qin (Girls).

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