KUCHING: Incentives for Sarawak teams competing in the ongoing 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA 2024) are still being finalised, with particular focus on team events.
Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the financial aspects are under thorough review, and further guidance will be sought from the Premier before finalising the details.
“Regarding the incentives, further details are being refined. This is because yesterday (Aug 16) when the honourable Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced them (incentives), there were few matters that perhaps had not yet been fully refined.
“Among them is related to team events, and other matters as well,” he said.
He said this to reporters after the official launching of the 21st SUKMA Sarawak 2024 Carnival, held at Celebration Square in Petra Jaya here on Saturday.
Abdul Karim further said the maximum incentive of RM15,000 for individual athletes has been confirmed, but further clarification is needed on team awards.
He also hoped the incentive would boost the athletes competing in the ongoing SUKMA, as it would undoubtedly make them proud.
Additionally, he said that impressive performances in sports like Taekwondo and Wushu, where several athletes have already won multiple gold medals, are contributing to a positive atmosphere among competitors.
Abdul Karim also mentioned that the state has made a strong start at SUKMA 2024, securing 12 gold medals and establishing a commanding lead over the second-place team, which has seven medals.
“Our strategy was to kick off with a strong showing, and we are on track to maintain our position at the top of the table.
“We aim not only to win but to do so with a significant lead, setting a high standard for other teams,” he said.
Meanwhile, the launch of the SUKMA Carnival has ignited a festive atmosphere across nine divisions in Sarawak.
The carnival are being held across nine divisions and in ten locations, namely Kuching, Lundu, Serian, Kota Samarahan, Sri Aman, Betong, Sibu, Bintulu, Mukah, and Miri.
Abdul Karim, who is also the Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister, said he wanted the carnival to be more than just a sports event.
“The inclusion of numerous food stalls and live broadcasts ensures that the entire community can engage with and enjoy the festivities,” he said.
He highlighted the participation of nearly 1,000 entrepreneurs, noting their contribution to the carnival’s success.
“Their involvement has already shown a positive impact on the local economy and the overall atmosphere of the event,” he said.
