BETONG: Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu concurred with the decision of the Ministry of Youth and Sports to have Sarawak as co-host for the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games and perceived it as a great pride and glory for the state.
He stated that Sarawak’s ability to host the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) received praise from many parties.
“What’s important is that this is an honour for Sarawak to be a co-host for the 2027 SEA Games.It also demonstrates the Federal Government’s trust in Sarawak to manage much bigger and prestigious events,” he said.
The Sarawak Contingent Chief for SUKMA made these remarks after officiating the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Proposed Rebuilding of Dilapidated Schools in Sarawak under the RM1 billion allocation (phase three) at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Saka, yesterday.
Rentap enthused that it will be the best opportunity for members of the public to witness an international event up close.
The Layar assemblyman also mentioned that they are currently reviewing suitable events to be held in Sarawak, considering the numerous sports facilities already available.
When asked whether he was ‘interested’ in bringing one or two events to the Betong Division, Rentap acknowledged his willingness to offer.
“We are ready to ‘offer’ ourselves if we get the opportunity.
“We are indeed interested, especially after receiving positive feedback from many parties regarding the organisation of SUKMA XXI Sarawak… we have many good facilities like stadiums in Betong, Spaoh, Debak, and Saratok.
“Even if we don’t get it, perhaps it could be held in Kuching or elsewhere.
“However, this requires the agreement of the Youth and Sports Ministry and the committee that will be organising it later,” he said.
