KUCHING: The Sarawak Government has expressed its appreciation to all parties ensuring that this year’s Malaysia Games (SUKMA) can proceed more modestly in Selangor this coming August.

Sarawak Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the decision to continue the Games is deeply appreciated, given that all states have made thorough preparations and are in the final stages of training.

“Alhamdulillah, I am very pleased and wish to record my utmost gratitude to the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah; the Ministry of Youth and Sports and its Minister (Dr Taufiq Johari); as well as the Selangor State Exco for successfully ensuring these games can take place,” he said.

He said this while speaking at the Opening Ceremony of the Sarawak United National Youth Organisation (SABERKAS) President’s Cup Futsal Championship at the Simpang Tiga Sports Arena here on Friday.

He added that the hosting will be on a smaller scale, with the opening and closing ceremonies reduced to a minimum. This includes the number of volunteers, which was originally around 30,000, being reduced to just 5,000 people.

However, he clarified that the sporting events themselves will remain unchanged, and all will be held to ensure every athlete can compete in their respective disciplines.

He expressed hope that tokens for athletes, such as pocket money and meals, would not be reduced to avoid any issues.

Commenting on Sarawak’s preparations, Dato Sri Abdul Karim noted that training camps will begin next week before the contingent departs.

“This shows our preparations are at the final stage. Bookings for rooms, homestays, and such have been made, and even deposits have been paid,” he said.

Also present were Daro Assemblyman and SABERKAS Secretary-General Dr Safiee Ahmad, Senator Dato’ Ahmad Dato’ Sri Ibrahim, and other distinguished guests. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Photos: Shahril Haqim
Translator: Ryan Lim