KUCHING: Sarawak is more than happy to host the next Malaysia Games (Sukma) next year.
Announcing the state’s willingness, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Putrajaya had asked the state to take on the role following a meeting chaired by the Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh.
“The federal government asked Sarawak to host Sukma because apparently no other state is willing to.
“I do not know the reason why as it is not Sarawak’s turn yet, it is supposed to be another state’s turn to host but I’ve informed the Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah that Sarawak is ready to host the Games.”
He was speaking at the 14th Malaysian Inter-State Foundation Sports Festival (PESAYA) closing ceremony at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), yesterday (Feb 19).
Among those present were Abdul Karim, Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, State Secretary Datuk Amar Abu Bakar Maruzki and Yayasan Sarawak director Mersal Rosli.
Previously on Feb 9, Abang Johari said the state welcomed the idea of hosting the Games if given the opportunity.
For the record, Sarawak hosted the biennial youth event back in 1990 (third edition). and 2016 (18th edition).
The 21st edition of Sukma was supposed to be hosted by Johor in 2024 but the state informed the National Sports Council last year it’s declining the offer.
So far, only Kelantan has yet to host the Games but the state said it is unprepared in terms of time and facilities.
