KUCHING: Sarawak’s athletes have entered the decisive stretch of preparations as they look to defend their Malaysian Games (SUKMA) crown on Selangor soil later this year.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said the state contingent is now moving into its final phase of preparation, with intensified programmes planned after Ramadan and Hari Raya.
“We are moving into the final phase of preparations. After Hari Raya, we will concentrate on structured programmes and provide greater exposure for our athletes,” he said after attending the ‘Majlis Berbuka Puasa Jawatankuasa Kecil Sukan, Rekreasi dan Kebudayaan SABERKAS Sarawak Bersama Media’ at the Borneo Cultures Museum here yesterday (Mar 2).
After ending a 30-year drought with 76 gold medals to emerge overall champions in 2024, the focus has shifted quickly from celebration to consolidation.
Replicating that success outside Sarawak, however, presents a sterner test.
Unlike the previous edition where the host state enjoyed familiarity and home support, this year’s campaign will demand greater adaptability across Selangor’s multiple competition sites.
Competing away from home will also require Sarawak to assess Selangor’s facilities by studying venue layouts, conditions and logistics to avoid surprises during competition.
“In Sarawak, we know our facilities well. Competing elsewhere means we must ‘merisik’, study and assess the venues to ensure we are fully prepared”, he added.
Despite the logistical and competitive challenge, Rentap remains confident the defending champions can rise again.
“I am confident that we are going to do well. We won the last SUKMA. At the very least, we will give our best. Agi idup agi ngelaban,” he said.
