Indonesia 2018: Jamery Siga targets debut title

“I see myself performing better than in 2014. With a comprehensive training I can feel the improvement compared to 2014.”

Jamery Siga is hoping to reach the top of the podium for the first time at the Asian Para Games when he travels to Jakarta, Indonesia, this October.

The Malaysian swimmer competed in both the multi-sport competition’s previous editions. He collected three silvers and two bronze at Guangzhou 2010 and a further two silvers and one bronze at Incheon 2014.

But Siga is confident of taking a leap forward at Indonesia 2018.

“This is my third appearance at an Asian Para Games and my aim is to win my first gold medal,” he said.

“I see myself performing better than in 2014. With a comprehensive training I can feel the improvement compared to 2014.”

Siga is one of Malaysia’s best swimmers, having competed at two Paralympic Games and three World Championships. He is yet to win a medal, but he is hoping he can change that at the next Games in Tokyo in two years’ time.

“I am happy if given the opportunity to compete at Tokyo 2020,” he said.

“I've been in this sport for nine years. If my results at the Asian Para Games are good, I hope to continue my journey at the Paralympics. But if they are not, I'm still happy with my appearance at previous Games.

“Competition at the Paralympic Games is very challenging. But, in my view, comprehensive training and high discipline can overcome these challenges. I am prepared for any challenge given.”

Before focusing on Tokyo 2020, however, Siga will have the unique opportunity of competing at a home World Championships in Kuching, between 29 July and 4 August 2019.

“I am very excited about the 2019 World Championships taking place in Sarawak. The Sarawak Aquatic Center is located in Kuching city about one and a half hours by plane from my hometown.

“I hope that my family will able to come to support me. And as I come from Sarawak, I take pride in serving my hometown and this gives me more enthusiasm to win.”

The Asian Para Games will be held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from 6-13 October, with around 4,000 athletes from 43 countries competing.