KUCHING: Sarawak has thrown its hat into the ring to co-host the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Malaysia, said Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The state has already expressed its readiness and financial commitment to the Games, with Abdul Karim officially signing a letter of intent.
“We are actively engaged in discussions and have even met with potential sponsors together with the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) in Kuala Lumpur,” he said.
Abdul Karim said this after officiating the opening of the Sarawak Wushu Training Centre at Jalan Stadium today (Aug 11).
He highlighted Sarawak’s capacity to host several key sports, including wushu, which the state has proposed as a venue for the Games.
“Hosting events like the SUKMA this year is preparing us for the bigger challenge of co-hosting the SEA Games in 2027,” he said.
Upgrading facilities is a priority, and Sarawak is prepared to invest in enhancements such as air conditioning for key venues.
“We’re looking into it, but it shouldn’t be a problem as the main infrastructure is already in place,” Abdul Karim said.
Sarawak has been tasked with selecting 18 events for the Games and has already submitted its choices to the ministry. However, the final decision on the events and their locations has yet to be made.
“Some sports, especially those with strong corporate support, might still be held in Kuala Lumpur,” he added.
While the host city for the 2027 SEA Games has not been officially announced, Sarawak is keen to share the hosting duties.
“It’s time to give other capable states a chance to host the SEA Games. Malaysia has hosted the event six times, all in Kuala Lumpur,” he said.
“That’s why Sarawak has submitted its intention to co-host.”
