MIRI: Sarawak’s recent triumph as the host of Sukma XXI has set the stage for the state’s growing reputation as a premier venue for international sporting events.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah hailed the unwavering support of Sarawakians, crediting their collective spirit for the event’s success and the state’s overall champion title.
Speaking at an appreciation dinner here on Tuesday night (Nov 26), Abdul Karim highlighted the significance of the people’s involvement in making the multi-sport event a landmark achievement.
“The strong spirit and support from the people of Sarawak propelled our athletes to victory. Hosting the games across nine divisions and 51 venues allowed everyone to come together to celebrate sports,” he said.
Acknowledging the tireless efforts of 17,864 committee members and 3,000 volunteers, he praised their contributions to ensuring the event’s smooth execution.
“From venue managers to volunteers who swept floors and handled logistics, these unsung heroes were instrumental in our success,” he added.
Miri, hosting six sports events — the highest outside Kuching — played a vital role. Abdul Karim noted the state received no major complaints, a testament to the event’s seamless organisation.
“This level of efficiency showcases Sarawak’s capability to host even larger events,” he said.
Sarawak’s organisational excellence has not gone unnoticed. Abdul Karim announced that the state will host the World Under-19 Women’s Cricket Championship in January 2025.
This marks the second time Sarawak will host a world event, the first being the World Junior Championship in the 1980s.
Televised live to over 200 million viewers across 80 countries, the cricket championship is expected to further enhance Sarawak’s global image.
“Cricket is gaining worldwide popularity, with a fanbase surpassing many traditional sports. This event is a significant milestone for Sarawak as a hub for international sports,” Abdul Karim said, revealing that Datuk Hii Chang Kee has been appointed to oversee the event.
Looking ahead, Sarawak will co-host the 2027 SEA Games alongside Kuala Lumpur, a historic first as the event is traditionally centralized in the capital.
Abdul Karim expressed confidence in Sarawak’s capabilities, saying: “The federal cabinet has agreed that Sarawak will host the opening ceremony. Our proven track record in organizing Sukma makes us a reliable co-host.”
He urged Sukma volunteers to bring their expertise to the SEA Games, emphasising their critical role in the success of future events.
The appreciation dinner was attended by Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I (Tourism) Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Deputy Minister for Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development II (Entrepreneur Development) Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat, Deputy State Secretary (Operation) Datuk Hii Chang Kee, Bintulu Resident Datu Nyurak Keti, MYSED permanent secretary Morshidi Frederick and Miri Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang.
