KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) is satisfied with Sarawak's preparations as a co-host of the SEA Games Malaysia 2027.
Its Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said Sarawak's preparations, particularly in terms of sports facilities, are progressing according to schedule.
He said the Malaysia SEA Games Organising Committee (MASOC 2027) Secretariat is also closely monitoring the state's preparations to ensure the Games are organised smoothly and successfully.
"As of today, Sarawak is on track. We are continuously monitoring all construction works involving sports facilities and stadiums.
"MASOC is also monitoring progress on a daily basis to ensure everything proceeds smoothly and successfully," he said.
He told reporters after officiating the launch of the official portal for the 34th SEA Games and the 14th ASEAN Para Games at Kuala Lumpur Sport City on Tuesday.
According to him, all facilities that have been constructed or refurbished will undergo a dry run six months before the SEA Games begin to prevent any untoward incidents during the Games.
In a related development, Dr Mohammed Taufiq noted that approximately 15,000 volunteers will be required to ensure the smooth execution of the biennial Games, scheduled to take place from 18 to 29 September 2027.
He noted that the recruitment drive for volunteers would be launched on 5 December, coinciding with the unveiling of the official theme song for the 34th SEA Games.
“We need at least 14,000 to 15,000 volunteers, and this number may increase over time.
"However, 15,000 is our current recruitment target to ensure the smooth running of the SEA Games 2027," he added.
Commenting on the portal, the KBS Minister said that it was developed in compliance with established standards and designed to be secure against hacking threats.
He said the portal is also user-friendly and easily accessible, allowing the public to obtain the latest information on the upcoming SEA Games.
"Although this is not an easy task, we want to ensure the website is secure and, God willing, not easily hacked," he stressed.
Also present were KBS Deputy Minister Mordi Bimol, MASOC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Datuk Abdul Rashid Yaakub, Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak Datu Dzulkornain Masron and other dignitaries. -UKASnews