KUCHING: Sukan GEMAPUTERA XVIII Sarawak 2026 kicked off yesterday (July 26), bringing together 14 State Economic Development Corporations (SEDC) nationwide for a sports carnival promoting camaraderie, collaboration and stronger ties.
Organised by the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), the 18th edition marks the second time Sarawak has hosted the Games after first doing so in 1984.
The event continues the GEMAPUTERA tradition following the previous edition hosted by the Penang Development Corporation (PDC).
In a statement issued by SEDC today (July 27), stated that the opening ceremony was officiated by SEDC Sarawak General Manager Rakayah Hamdan, who also serves as Yang Di-Pertua of Sukan GEMAPUTERA XVIII Sarawak 2026.
In her speech, Rakayah emphasised that the GEMAPUTERA Games are more than just a competition, serving as a platform to strengthen collaboration, build networks and instil values of discipline, integrity and teamwork among SEDC staff nationwide.
“Although we come from different organisations and states, we are united by a common goal: to strengthen bonds, build collaborative networks and foster the spirit of togetherness among the family of State Economic Development Corporations,” she said.
The Games feature eight sports — badminton, futsal, pickleball, netball, carrom, e-sports, golf and bowling — with pickleball and e-sports introduced for the first time to broaden participation and reflect current sporting trends.
Carrying the slogan “Agi Idup, Agi Ngelaban”, the Games champion a message of resilience, perseverance and determination to strive for excellence, not only in competition but also in carrying out organisational responsibilities.
Rakayah also extended her appreciation to the organising committee, match officials, staff and strategic partners whose support contributed to the success of the event.
She also thanked the strategic partners, including Hemisphere Corporation, Rosewood Station Proprietary Limited, SAINS, SEDC Permata Sdn Bhd, Softworld, Salihin, Permaisara, PETRONAS, SEDC Consults Sdn. Bhd., SEDC Energy Sdn. Bhd., PPES Works Sdn. Bhd. and other supporting organisations, for their contributions towards making the GEMAPUTERA Games a success.
The GEMAPUTERA Games will run over several days across Kuching and Kota Samarahan, with contingents from State Economic Development Corporations throughout Malaysia taking part.
