SIBU (Nov 22) – The Sarawak government is exploring the possibility of hosting events for the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games across multiple divisions, Minister for Youth, Sport, and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah announced.
He shared that several divisions have expressed interest in co-hosting SEA Games events, following the success of the recent Malaysia Games (Sukma) XXI, which was held across nine divisions in Sarawak.
“We have noted these requests, but the final decision lies with Kuala Lumpur,” Abdul Karim said during the Sukma XXI Appreciation Night in Sibu last night.
Abdul Karim highlighted the unifying power of sports, citing how the recent Sukma XXI brought Sarawakians from all ethnic backgrounds together in support of their athletes.
“Whether they are Chinese, Dayak, Malay, or others, sports unites people as a community,” he said.
He was especially impressed by the support shown during the boxing and muaythai competitions in Sri Aman and Bintulu, where venues were filled with enthusiastic spectators of all ages and backgrounds.
“The spirit, commitment, and determination of the Sarawak crowd ensured our athletes delivered outstanding performances,” he added.
Describing Sukma XXI as the “best and biggest ever organised,” Abdul Karim praised the organising committee and unsung heroes who ensured the event’s success. He noted that Sarawak’s victory in Sukma XXI – its first in 30 years – solidifies its reputation as a sports powerhouse.
Sarawak has been invited to co-host the 2027 SEA Games, funding half of the RM350 million cost alongside the federal government. Abdul Karim stressed the state’s commitment to youth and sports development as a means of fostering unity and resilience.
“Let this success be a stepping stone to greater achievements and to making Sarawak a sports powerhouse,” he concluded.
