KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian participants at the 7th Asean Skills Competition (ASC), which was held here recently, showed what the Malaysia Boleh spirit was all about by grabbing six gold medals. 

Malaysia and Thailand (which also received six gold medals) came first, followed by Indonesia and Vietnam (five gold medals each) and Singapore (four gold medals). 

Malaysia also received eight silver medals, five bronze medals and seven diplomas of excellence in 19 skills categories, aimed at inspiring and acknowledging talented you-ths in various fields. 

Competition chairman Dat-uk Seri Dr Abdul Munit Kasmin said they were overjoyed that the country's representatives had won so many gold medals.

"The ASC focuses more on the skills of the youths rather than on competition among the countries, but we are proud that our youths have shown the true spirit of Malaysia Boleh."

He added that some of the gold medal winners in automobile technology, bricklaying (two winners), electrical installation, industrial electronics and plumbing would have the chance to represent the country at the World Skills Competition in Canada in May.

"But we haven't decided who among the six will be chosen," said Munit who is also Works Ministry secretary-general.

The country also collected the most silver medals in cabinet making and mechatronics, with two winners in each field, while participants in dressmaking, automobile technology, electrical installation and welding won one medal each.

The competition, which was organised by the ministry, was held at the Malaysian Construction Academy in Cheras from Nov 14 to Nov 16. 

The country hosted the same competition in 1995 as a platform for participants to showcase their talents, skills and abilities.