KUCHING – Sarawak has expressed firm confidence in its ability to host the 2027 SEA Games, with preparations already underway to ensure the smooth running of the international sporting event.
Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, said Sarawak was ready to take on the challenge of organising the prestigious competition.
He assured that despite ongoing preparations, the state would be able to deliver a successful event, particularly at the opening ceremony.
“Of course we have to be prepared and that is why recently I went to Bangkok, Thailand with a team from the Sarawak Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Development to see the venue where the competition was held,” he explained.
Abdul Karim, who also serves as Minister of Trade, Tourism, Creative Industries and Entertainment Arts, noted that his visit to Thailand included attending the opening ceremony of the SEA Games.
He said the experience gave Sarawak valuable insights into managing large-scale events, including potential challenges related to food, transport, and logistics.
“I was also there during the opening ceremony and I believe we can manage like the people there, maybe better than that,” he added.
The minister revealed that Sarawak had allocated RM350 million for the organisation of the Games, covering facilities, infrastructure, and management costs.
He acknowledged that hundreds of millions would be required to prepare venues and ensure the event meets international standards.
Abdul Karim stressed that the investment should be viewed as a long-term strategy to strengthen Malaysia’s sports industry.
He urged critics to recognise the broader benefits of hosting the SEA Games, including economic growth, tourism promotion, and the development of local athletes.
“We also listen to the issues and problems that arise at the beginning of the competition such as food, transport and others,” he said, emphasising that Sarawak was committed to learning from experiences to avoid similar setbacks.
The minister reiterated that Sarawak’s readiness reflects its ambition to showcase the state’s capabilities on the international stage.
He encouraged the public to support the initiative, highlighting that the Games would not only elevate Sarawak’s profile but also contribute to Malaysia’s reputation as a capable host of major sporting events.
With the SEA Games scheduled for 2027, Sarawak’s preparations are expected to intensify in the coming months, as the state works to deliver a memorable and well-organised competition.
