KUCHING: It is high time that Sarawak reclaim the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) championship after previously winning it 30 years ago in 1994.
Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Utom said the with the competition being hosted in Sarawak, it presents an opportunity to clinch victory on home soil.
“30 years ago, we (Sarawak) emerged as champions, and now is the time to reclaim that title. While we take the opportunity to be the host, we must also be ready to be the champion.
“Not only that, there is a spin-off effect by hosting the Games, which is boosting tourism and enhancing Sarawak’s image on the national or international stage,” he said.
He said this during the 21st SUKMA Sarawak 2024 Baton Relay held at Bintulu Civic Centre this morning.
Dr Rundi hoped with the competition, it would not only demonstrate passion and love for sports, but also foster the spirit of unity and teamwork among athletes.
“There is also another reason why we call it sport. It is like people always say, ‘sporting la sikit’ in the Malaysian slang, it could mean be friendly, unite and have tolerance,” he said.
He said with athletes within Bintulu and those from Limbang, Miri, Bintulu, Mukah, Sibu, Kapit and other gathers for the sports event, it could build closer relationship between the teams that are competing in the games.
“Moreover, the SUKMA provide a formal platform for athletes, including those with disabilities in the PARA SUKMA, to showcase their talents,” he said.
He added through sports it could also produce world-class athletes such as Sarawakian powerlifting athlete Bonnie Bunyau Gustin, diver Datuk Pandelela Rinong Pamg, Muay Thai fighter Muhammad Johan Ghazali or Jojo, of which all are well known at the international stage.
“As preparation for the SUKMA continues, I also urge our athletes to build their mental strength so that we can win big,” he said.
Earlier, Bintulu Division has become the third destination for the organisation for the 21st SUKMA Sarawak 2024 Baton Relay, which saw more than 1,000 public including athletes and school students participated despite the rainy weather.
The event, which was flagged off by Deputy State Secretary and 21st SUKMA Sarawak secretariat chief executive officer Datuk Hii Chang Kee also featured sporting icons from the Bintulu Division led by Taekwondo athlete Marylyne Bungan Lian as well as other sports icons.
Meanwhile, the Baton Relay event will continue in Mukah, Sibu, Kapit, Sri Aman, Betong, Kota Samarahan, Serian divisions, and will end in Kuching on June 23.
Previously, the Limbang Division was selected as the first destination for the event, followed by Miri Division.
The SUKMA competition will see 488 sporting events being hosted.
