KUCHING: Sarawak is targeting 75 gold medals as it aims to retain the overall championship title at the 22nd Malaysia Games (SUKMA XXII) which will be held in Selangor from 15 to 24 August.

Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development and Chef de Mission of the Sarawak Contingent Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said 930 contingent members comprising athletes and officers will depart for Selangor to participate in the Games which will feature 37 types of sports involving 469 events at several venues throughout the state.

According to him, the athletes are in peak condition and are fully prepared, particularly from a technical standpoint, to face the competition.

“To emerge as champions, we are targeting 75 gold medals. At the 2024 SUKMA in Sarawak, we won 76 gold medals. I am confident that if we achieve this target, we will once again be crowned overall champions,” he said.

He said this when appearing as a guest on the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) Juh Randau talk show at the UKAS Studio on Wednesday.

Commenting further, Datuk Gerald said preparations for the athletes have been carried out comprehensively over the past two years through intensive training programmes and participation in various competitions to increase their experience and ensure they are in peak form ahead of the Games.

“Most importantly, we have provided our athletes with the space and opportunities to excel. Over the past two years, they have undergone training, made thorough preparations and gained valuable exposure. I am confident they can deliver,” he said.

He also expressed confidence that the contingent's strong fighting spirit and meticulous preparations would serve as the catalyst for Sarawak to successfully defend its overall SUKMA title. -UKASnews