By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, June 9: As Malaysia will be the host of the 2027 SEA Games, Sarawak is pushing for 18 events to be held in the State in addition to hosting the opening ceremony.
According to the Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the venue for the SEA Games in Malaysia has predominantly been in Peninsular Malaysia.
“This time, we proposed that some of the events be held in Sarawak. We are still in the discussion stage, but we are pushing for 18 to be held in Sarawak and 18 in Peninsular Malaysia—our condition is that the opening of the SEA Games must be held in Sarawak,” he said.
He said this during a press conference following the launch of the General Volunteer Basic Course for 2024 Sukma here today.
In May, Abdul Karim said that negotiations are ongoing as Sarawak has expressed interest in co-hosting the 2027 SEA Games with Putrajaya, recognising the potential economic benefits this biennial sporting event could bring to the local economy.
Meanwhile, on Sarawak’s preparations for 2024 Sukma to be held in August, Abdul Karim said that infrastructure and sports facilities are near completion.
However, he noted that a few facilities still require additional attention, particularly the BMX track, which has experienced some delays.
He said to ensure that the BMX track and other pending venues are ready on time, the Deputy Secretary to the Sarawak Government and chief executive officer of the SUKMA XXI Sarawak 2024 Secretariat, Datuk Hii Chang Kee, will meet with contractors.
“We will make sure the BMX track is ready as there is no alternative or Plan B for it,” emphasised Abdul Karim.
At the same time, he said the Wushu hall remains a concern, with the alternative plan involving using another venue. — DayakDaily
