ASG NURTURES ASEAN SPIRIT AMONG YOUTH

KUALA LUMPUR, July 19 (Bernama) -- The Second Asean School Games (ASG) has
succeeded in nurturing the Asean spirit among the region's young athletes,
Deputy Minister of Education Dr Wee Ka Siong said.

Addressing the region's young talents at the ASG closing ceremony here
Monday, Wee said it was proven that sport was a powerful mechanism for unity and
capable of transcending national, political and social barriers.

"You have also endorsed the fact that sport is a universal language that can
help overcome differences. Congratulations! You have captured the true essence
of the Asean spirit," he said.

Wee also said that the ASG was a valuable arena for students to compete at
the international level.

At the ceremony, Wee presented the championship's flag to Singapore
chef-de-mission Lim Lai Chuan. The republic is the host of next year's ASG.

Malaysia emerged the overall champion after collecting 46 gold while
Thailand finished second with 32 gold in the championships which offered 106
gold medals.

About 1,300 athletes and officials from seven Asean countries -- Brunei,
Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam --
competed in 11 sports during the championship.
-- BERNAMA