KUALA LUMPUR: Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and Malaysian bowling fans have congratulated Sin Li Jane for conquering the PWBA Tour and becoming the first Asian bowler to win its Player of the Year award.
The 32-year-old achieved this honour in spectacular fashion by securing her fourth title of the season at the Tour Championship in Michigan, the United States, on Tuesday.
Yeoh, in a Facebook post, said: "Congratulations to Sin Li Jane! She has made history in the US Professional Women's Bowling Association (PWBA) Tour by becoming the first Asian to win the Player of the Year award."
For her championship win, Li Jane earned the top prize of US$50,000 (RM221,000), bringing her total season earnings to US$154,570 (RM684,000).
The previous best achievement by a Malaysian bowler in the tournament was Shalin Zulkifli, who finished third overall in 2008.
Li Jane's sensational achievement has sparked excitement among Malaysian sports fans, who are now advocating for bowling to be included in the Olympic Games.
Doreen Lim commented: "Time to get her prepared for the next Olympics."
John Ong Jun added: "If only bowling were an Olympic event. Haiya."
Meanwhile, Eric Generes posted: "Can Malaysia push to include bowling in the Olympics?"