By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 20: The Sarawak contingent remains optimistic about achieving its target of 75 gold medals at the 2026 Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Selangor despite several sporting events being affected after failing to meet the minimum participation requirements.
According to Sarawak Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu, changes to several sporting events would not undermine the contingent’s confidence in defending its overall championship title.
He said one of the affected events was the rapid-fire pistol event in shooting, which had to be dropped after only four states entered the competition, failing to meet the minimum participation requirement of six states.
“There are also several other events that have insufficient participation. Therefore, we need to readjust our strategy to ensure the contingent is in the best possible condition.
“Nevertheless, I believe the Sarawak contingent is fully prepared,” he told reporters after attending the Sarawak Contingent Chef-de-Mission (CDM) Dinner for the 2026 Selangor Sukma here on Sunday (July 19), as reported by TVS.
Rentap, who is also the Sarawak contingent’s Chef-de-Mission, said the contingent comprises about 950 athletes and officials who will compete in 37 sports involving 468 events. However, the final selection of athletes will be made within the next two to three weeks, with priority given to their health and fitness.
Commenting on the medal target, he said the contingent’s confidence was based on its achievements at the previous Sukma as well as the comprehensive preparations currently underway.
“We are also aware that other state contingents are fielding many new athletes. Even so, we remain confident because our preparations are progressing well, and several teams are still undergoing training overseas.
“We hope these preparations will improve our performance, including converting bronze medals into gold medals,” he said.
During the event, 23 Assistant Chef-de-Mission (ACDMs) were introduced to help coordinate the welfare and management of the 37 sports contested by the Sarawak contingent, assisted by two Deputy Chef-de-Mission (DCDMs).
He added that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is scheduled to officiate the Sarawak contingent flag handover ceremony on Aug 10 before the team departs for Selangor.
The 22nd edition of Sukma will be held from Aug 15 to 24, while the Para Sukma Games will take place from Sept 5 to 14. — DayakDaily
