By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, April 23: Sarawak is maintaining its stand that the Malaysia Games (Sukma) should proceed as scheduled this August, citing extensive preparations, financial commitments, and the risk of athletes missing out due to age restrictions.
Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the State’s position remains firm even ahead of a special meeting on April 30 expected to deliberate on the proposed postponement of Sukma, as suggested by the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.
“When it comes to Sarawak, even before we reach that meeting on the 30th, my wish is for Sukma to proceed. So much has been spent in preparation—logistics, accommodation bookings, hotels, homestays and more.
“Deposits have been paid, and our athletes have been sent all over, even overseas, for training,” he said when speaking during a press conference at Baitulmakmur 2 building here today.
He stressed that a postponement could significantly affect athletes, particularly those nearing the age limit of 21.
“If it is deferred, many athletes may not be able to participate as they would become overage. We also do not know when the Middle East war will end, so a delay could mean the Games are pushed to next year or even later,” he added.
The State’s stance reflects the position of both the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) as well as the Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC).
Abdul Karim further noted that preparations by host State Selangor are already at an advanced stage following a recent Sukma central committee meeting.
“Preparations at the Selangor level are quite good. With Sukma just three months away, everything—from the opening ceremony to accommodation and sporting arrangements—should already be in place.
“If everything has been done, it is better to proceed for the sake of sports and those who have worked hard in preparation,” he said.
While respecting the suggestion by the Selangor Sultan to defer the Games, Abdul Karim stressed that the final decision must consider broader implications affecting all states.
“It is not only Sarawak that has prepared. All states have made significant preparations, involving millions in costs. Many deposits are non-refundable, and training efforts, including those conducted overseas, would go to waste if the Games are postponed,” he said.
Earlier, responding to a question on the visit by the Federal Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari, Abdul Karim clarified that the trip to Sarawak from April 28 to 29 had been planned earlier and is not related to the recent call to postpone Sukma.
He said the visit will include inspections of key sports facilities such as the Sarawak Stadium, Indoor Stadium and the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre, as well as a community programme in Semaba to engage with the local community.
Abdul Karim also said that while the Sukma issue may be raised during the visit, any discussion would be informal.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports is expected to convene a Sukma Exco meeting on April 30, a day after the Minister’s return to Kuala Lumpur.
The final decision on whether Sukma will proceed as scheduled is expected to be determined following the meeting involving the Ministry and all participating States. — DayakDaily
