PARALYMPIC Council of Malaysia (PCM) are banking on in-form powerlifter Bonnie Bunyau Gustin to deliver the goods at next month's Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
Bonnie proved he is on track for the games after easing to victory in the men's Under-72kg class at the Asia Oceania Open Para Powerlifting Championships in Pyeongtek, South Korea, on Friday.
The diminutive Sarawakian managed a best lift of 213kg, outdoing his closest rival — Hu Peng of China — by 13kg.
PCM president Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin said the current World and Paralympic champion is in fine spirit ahead of the Commonwealth meet.
"The Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) have made the decision to appoint Bonnie (as one of two) flag bearers for the national contingent in Birmingham," said Shahriman.
"I believe he will be a medal prospect for us at the Commonwealth Games. I met him prior to his leaving (for South Korea) and he's very motivated.
"He has performed very well in recent seasons, and we are confident he will continue to do the country proud for at least the next three or four years, possibly longer.
"It's important for us to finish on the podium as we are competing there (Birmingham) using taxpayers' money, so our mission is to win."
Bonnie's all-conquering performances in recent seasons place him as the firm favourite in his category in Birmingham. Malaysia have yet to win a gold medal in para events at the Commonwealth Games.
Shahriman disclosed that PCM have selected nine athletes for the Commonwealth Games, including Bonnie. "We'd rather not name the athletes besides Bonnie, until they have been approved (by OCM)."
Unlike the Paralympics and Asian Para Games, which are run separately from the Olympics and Asian Games, para events are held concurrently with able-bodied events at the Commonwealth Games.