KUCHING: The Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development has paid tribute to the unsung heroes of dedicated individuals and groups who contributed to the successful hosting of the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) Sarawak 2024.

Its Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said individuals across multiple levels played a role in ensuring smooth sailing of the recently concluded Games.

“It begins from the very top, from our Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to the Sarawak State Secretary, ministries, and agencies under the ministries,

“Other than that, offices, city halls, the local councils, all of them directly or indirectly contributed to the successful execution of SUKMA,” he said.

He said this during the 21st SUKMA Sarawak Appreciation Ceremony held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) last night (Oct 27).

Abdul Karim also extended his appreciation to the federal agencies including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), People’s Volunteer Corps (RELA), and others in maintaining the safety and security of the event.

“The unsung heroes include those who ensured cleanliness of the venues before and after the event.

“Appreciation also goes to the sweepers, and those who ensured everything was in top shape for each day of events,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation to all 17,864 committee members and 3,000 volunteers who have worked tirelessly, along with each sport’s venue managers.

“It’s no easy feat to manage 37 sports involving 488 gold medals, especially across nine divisions. The Resident’s Office, as our Secretariat in each division, has done an excellent job,” he said.

To honour everyone involved, he said the Ministry has planned similar appreciation ceremonies in the Central Zone (Betong, Sibu, and Mukah) and the Northern Zone (Bintulu and Miri), which is set to take place after the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting.

“Special thanks are also extended to the 35 sponsors and official partners for their contributions, whether in the form of financial support or goods,” he said.

Abdul Karim also took the opportunity to remind on the importance of the noble values practised throughout the organisation of SUKMA.

“Cooperation, integrity, and sportsmanship are the foundations that have united us in achieving this success,” he said.

Later the event ceremony also saw Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg officiating at the launch of the ‘Road To Glory SUKMA XXI Sarawak 2024’ coffee table book.