By Chris Bishop and Karen Bong
KUCHING, July 17: The Malaysia Games (Sukma) and Para Sukma XXI Sarawak 2024 has garnered a total of RM13.04 million in contributions, both in cash and in-kind, from 27 sponsors to date.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entreprenuer Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah acknowledged that the generous contributions and steadfast commitment of the sponsors in promoting sport excellence and nurturing athletes will have a profound impact on this prestigious national sports event.
At an appreciation hi-tea event held today at a local hotel, Abdul Karim expressed gratitude to the Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze sponsors, which include esteemed corporate bodies, statutory bodies, and government-linked companies.
Additionally, the six official partners—Malaysia Airlines (airlines partner), Grab (e-hailing partner), Keris Sakti (merchandise partner), Rapid Bus (transport partner), as well as TVS and RTM (official broadcasters)—were also recognised for their support.
“Your partnership has not only assisted in organising a successful national sports event but also contributed to the development of sports at the grassroots’ levels, nurturing future champions and promoting a healthier, more active community.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to each of our sponsors present here as we come together to celebrate your generosity and contribution,” he said when addressing the event, which was also attended by Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah and Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operation) Datu Hii Chang Kee.
Abdul Karim emphasised that human capital and capacity building are crucial pillars of Sarawak’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PSCD) in ensuring that the region attained developed status by 2030.
“One of the reasons Sarawak agreed to host Sukma and Para Sukma 2024 is that we want to identify and nurture talents in sports. This event will go a long way to contribute to our youth and sports development,” he said.
Looking forward, Abdul Karim expressed confidence that with continued support from sponsors and stakeholders, Sarawak will elevate the standard of sports in Malaysia and empower more young athletes to excel in their chosen fields.
“Your generosity has left an indelible mark on this event, and we look forward to continuing this journey together towards greater achievements in sports for Sarawak and also for Malaysia,” he concluded.
Sarawak is proud to host this national sports event for the third time after 1990 and 2016.
The biennial Sukma and Para Sukma Sarawak 2024, hosted in smart partnership with federal and Sarawak governments, sports associations, non-governmental organisations, volunteers and key stakeholders including esteemed sponsors, will take place across nine divisions in Sarawak from Aug 17 to 24.
The event will feature 37 sports, 487 events and over 10,000 athletes and technical officers.
Para Sukma will follow from Sept 22 to 28 in Kuching Division, featuring 10 sports and 334 events with 2,470 athletes and technical officers expected.
Since the official announcement in March 2024, Sarawak has been diligently preparing to ensure that all facilities, logistics, volunteers, accommodation and transportation are ready.
The event has already attracted significant attention and enthusiasm, particularly with the Sukma and Para Sukma Baton Run, which began in Limbang Division on April 27 and culminated in Kuching Division on June 24. — DayakDaily
