KUCHING: Sarawak has officially received an invitation to participate in the 2026 Malaysian Games (Sukan Malaysia (SUKMA)) following a courtesy visit by the Selangor organising delegation to the state, marking the start of early preparations by the Sarawak contingent to defend the championship title it previously secured.

Sarawak Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said that defending the title away from home would require more meticulous preparation, but stressed that it would not deter Sarawak from continuing its challenge for the championship.

“We are aware that SUKMA this time will be hosted in Selangor, a state with an excellent track record in the history of SUKMA even when the Games are held elsewhere.

“Besides Selangor as the host state, Sarawak is also expected to be among the states sending one of the largest contingents, and we will ensure that all preparations are carried out comprehensively to defend the title,” he said.

He said this during a press conference held in conjunction with the official visit by the Selangor delegation, which was also highlighted by the symbolic handover of the SUKMA torch, on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Selangor State Executive Councillor for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship, Mohd Najwan Halimi, informed that the opening ceremony of SUKMA 2026 will be implemented using a different approach compared to previous editions, in line with the current condition of the state’s sports infrastructure and the organisers’ intention to introduce a fresh experience for the biennial Games.

“The SUKMA 2026 opening ceremony will be held at the Sepang International Circuit instead of a stadium. This is because Selangor currently does not have a state stadium following the redevelopment of the Shah Alam Stadium.

“As such, this will be the first time SUKMA is officially opened outside a stadium, and it is expected to provide a unique experience for athletes and spectators alike,” he explained.

According to him, preparations by Selangor as the host state are progressing well, with more than 80 per cent of sports facilities already upgraded, while the remaining facilities are expected to be fully completed by April.

SUKMA 2026 will be the 22nd edition of the Games, featuring 37 sports and 474 events, with competitions to be held across nine main districts in Selangor, further enlivening the prestigious national biennial sporting event. -UKASnews

Reporter: Alezxandria Kapple & Mia Amira
Photographer: Alezxandria Kapple