By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, July 30: Sarawak athletes competing in the upcoming 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma) have a chance to win incentives if they bring home gold medals.
Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) and the chef de mission (CDM) for the Sarawak Sukma contingent, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, hinted at the rewards.
He was met earlier today during his visit to Miri Stadium.
However, the specifics of these incentives will be officially announced by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Our athletes are ready,” said Gerald.
“I’ve seen their preparation, and I am confident they can win.”
He emphasised that while there have been discussions about remunerations, official details will come from the Premier.
“Win first,” he encouraged the athletes, adding that there are also initiatives from associations and individuals ready to provide rewards, particularly for gold medals.
Gerald is currently in Miri City, inspecting venues for the upcoming Sukma.
“I visited the Sukma facilities in Miri to see the venues that will be used, and I am satisfied with the preparations, especially for sports like karate, softball, sailing, rugby, sword, and pencak silat,” he revealed.
He also said that the rugby venue is 100 per cent ready, pencak silat equipment is being installed, and preparations for softball are about 95 per cent completed.
Overall, he expressed satisfaction with accommodation and food arrangements.
Sukma 2024 will be hosted across nine divisions: Kuching, Samarahan, Serian, Sri Aman, Betong, Sibu, Mukah, Bintulu, and Miri.
This year’s games will feature 37 sports with 488 events, including 236 men’s events, 217 women’s events, and 35 mixed events, bringing together 12,619 athletes and officials.
Sukma was introduced in 1986. Sarawak hosted the games in 1990 and 2016. — DayakDaily
