The 15th Oasis 2025 Sports Games, a competition for people with intellectual disabilities, were officially opened in Sarajevo today, running until May 25, 2025. The opening was attended by the Federal Minister of Labor and Social Policy, Adnan Delić.
In his address, Delić emphasized that the “Oaza” Games are not just a sporting event, but a celebration of courage, togetherness and incredible willpower. In his speech, he emphasized the decades-long importance of the “Oaza” Association, which has been working dedicatedly for 65 years to empower and include young people with developmental disabilities through sports, education and everyday community work, the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Policy announced.
“The Oasis Games are much more than a sports competition, they are a symbol of strength, togetherness and inclusion. Being here means being part of a society that does not exclude, but accepts and empowers. You from Oasis have been changing the lives of not only those entrusted to you, but also their families, communities and all of us who have the honor of knowing you for decades. The Ministry of Labor and Social Policy is striving to provide permanent support to such organizations through concrete legal changes, such as the Law on Social Services. You in Oasis have been a pillar of that support for 65 years, and for that we owe you our sincere respect,” the Minister said.
He added that the Ministry is continuously committed to creating conditions in which associations like Oasis will have stable and sustainable financing, through systemic legal solutions. He also emphasized that he hopes that by the next Oasis Sports Games, the Federation will receive its first Law on Social Services.
The Embassy of Malaysia in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a proud sponsor of the 15th Oasis Sports Games. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chargé d’Affaires Mrs. Sharifah Shakila expressed her delight at being part of the event. She emphasized that the Oasis Sports Games go beyond competition – they are a celebration of friendship, unity, and the opportunity for every participant to shine. Addressing the athletes, she praised their resilience and spirit, noting that they embody the true meaning of overcoming challenges with joy. Mrs. Shakila highlighted that the values demonstrated at the Games are reflected by the Malaysian MADANI principles – sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust, and compassion – are deeply shared by Malaysia. The Embassy is honored to support the event and collaborate with the Oasis team in fostering positive change.
Athletes, people with intellectual disabilities, will compete in football, athletics, bocce, basketball, swimming, table tennis and the MATP program for people with multiple disabilities.
The competitions will be held at the Center for Education, Sports and Recreation “Safet Zajko”, the Otoka Olympic Swimming Pool and the Skenderija Center.
The aim of the competition is to promote the abilities and possibilities of people with disabilities, and the practical implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
