BETONG: The fourth edition of the Sarawak Games (SUKSAR IV 2026) serves as a strategic platform to strengthen the physical and mental preparation of Sarawak athletes before they progress to competitions at the national and international levels.

Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said that beyond the aim of retaining the overall championship at the upcoming Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in Selangor, SUKSAR also plays a vital role in identifying and nurturing young talent to represent Malaysia on the international stage in the future.

“This target is important to demonstrate that Sarawak athletes are not only capable of becoming champions at the state level, but also able to compete consistently and sustain excellent performance at the national level.

“At the same time, they have the potential to advance to the international arena, as next year Sarawak will co-host the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Kuching. This is followed by the Olympic Games in 2028.

“All these are part of our efforts to prepare our athletes to compete on the world stage, and Sarawak athletes can proudly represent Malaysia,” he said.

He said this when officiating at the Opening Ceremony of SUKSAR IV 2026 at the Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan Sports Hall, here on Wednesday.

The Chairman of SUKSAR IV 2026 emphasised the Sarawak Government’s hope that athletes would treat the competition as an ideal platform to prove and showcase their true capabilities, strengthen self-confidence, and demonstrate strong fighting spirit.

“Make full use of this opportunity as a stepping stone to a higher level.

“I also call upon coaches and sports officials to continue playing a vital role in guiding athletes holistically, not only in terms of sporting performance but also in character development, discipline, leadership, and the cultivation of a resilient champion’s mentality,” he added. -UKASnews