KUCHING: Over 30,000 people gathered at the Stadium Perpaduan in Petra Jaya for the grand opening ceremony of the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) last night.
Supporters began assembling as early as noon to witness and be part of the largest SUKMA event ever held.
Despite the rain and hot sun, the queue of eager spectators seemed endless.
By 3 pm the stadium compound was packed with people, many of whom visited the SUKMA Carnival, which featured over 110 stalls offering refreshments and food.
Pre-show entertainment featured performances by Bintang RTM 2024 winner Roxy Izzy, local talent Ng Chien Chien, and Ramlez Walter, who energised the crowd ahead of the main event.
The ceremony was graced by the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, who arrived at 8.20 pm.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his wife, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, followed at 8.35 pm.
The programme continued with an electrifying opening ceremony, followed by a march-past of all contingents.
Sarawak’s contingent, led by chef de mission Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, consisted of 1,054 members, with flag bearer Dayang Lim Yee Sean—a bronze medalist in Taijiquan at the 8th World Junior Wushu Championship in 2022.
A stunning drone light show then illuminated the night sky, displaying the themes of SUKMA, “Semangat Perpaduan Membara” and Sarawak’s flag “Ibu Pertiwi.”
The ceremony also featured special performances by Faizal Tahir, Jaclyn Victor, and Marsha Milan.
The torch relay, led by Kilat Boy, Daeloniel Mcdelon Bong had journeyed from northern Sarawak to arrive at Stadium Sarawak for the final leg of its journey.
Federal Minister of Youth and Sports Hannah Yeoh and Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepeneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah were also present to witness the event.
