By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 28: Sarawak is set to host the RM7.5 million Borneo Games 2025 in Kuching from Sept 24 to 28, marking the return of the regional sporting event after more than a decade, with participation from Brunei Darussalam, Sabah, Labuan and East Kalimantan.
Permanent secretary to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Morshidi Fredrick said the Borneo Games were last held in Labuan in 2013, and its revival in Kuching reflects both the spirit of sportsmanship and the strengthening of Borneo unity.
“This year’s Borneo Games is not only a stage to test the strength of athletes but also a wider platform for young athletes to build resilience and gain experience in facing opponents with international exposure,” he told Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) during the Juh Randau programme on Wednesday (Aug 27).
The Games are expected to generate economic spillover for Sarawak through the influx of athletes, coaches and supporters throughout the five-day event.
A total of seven sports will be contested, including athletics, swimming, badminton, archery and lawn bowls along with two traditional sports, tug-of-war and blowpipe. A golf tournament will also be held for VIP guests.
Key venues include Sarawak Stadium Petra Jaya, Unity Indoor Stadium, Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre, Sarawak Arena Archery, Field D Petra Jaya Sports Complex, Sarawak Lawn Bowls Arena and Sarawak Golf Club.
Morshidi said preparations involve close collaboration with the Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC), sports associations and experienced technical committees, particularly those who managed the Malaysia Games (Sukma) 2024, to ensure competition standards meet international benchmarks.
“Special training for volunteers will be conducted in early September, while athlete registration through the Games Management System closed on Aug 29,” he shared.
To enliven the Games, local communities will also be involved through a sales festival showcasing Sarawak handicrafts and food products.
Morshidi expressed confidence that with strong local support, the Borneo Games Kuching 2025 could serve as a catalyst for the State’s sports industry and elevate Sarawak as a national sporting powerhouse by 2030. — DayakDaily
