By Amanda L
KUCHING, Feb 8: The fourth Sarawak Games (SUKSAR) 2026 has provided Sarawak’s young athletes not only a platform to compete but also served as a test of logistical and management readiness ahead of the upcoming Malaysia Games (SUKMA), said Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah
SUKSAR 2026, held from February 5 to 8 across Sri Aman and Betong, with Lubok Antu as a support venue, involved athletes from across the State competing in multiple sports under tightly coordinated schedules.
According to Abdul Karim, the event was deliberately organised to replicate the challenges athletes will face at SUKMA in Selangor in August, including travel, coordination across venues, and time management.
“Success at SUKSAR is not just measured by medals. Responsibility now rests on the shoulders of our athletes, coaches, and management teams.
“We do not just want to win in our own state. SUKMA will present a bigger logistical and mental challenge, and we are using SUKSAR to prepare for that,” he said at the closing ceremony of the fourth Sarawak Games (SUKSAR) 2026 today.
He also noted the economic benefits for local communities, as hotels and facilities in Sri Aman, Betong, and Lubok Antu were fully utilised by athletes, officials, and supporters.
Looking ahead, the minister said immediate preparations are underway for SUKMA, including appointing contingent leaders, deputies, and management teams to oversee athletes in Selangor.
“Proper planning and coordination are crucial to ensuring Sarawak athletes perform at their best,” he emphasised. — DayakDaily
