SAUDI ARABIA: Sarawak has formalised its interest in hosting the 7th Islamic Solidarity Games (ISG) in 2029 through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed here recently.
The MoU involving the Sarawak government, Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) and Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) was signed in conjunction with the 15th ISSA General Assembly in Taif.
Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said Sarawak is prepared to work closely with the federal government and ISSA should it be selected to host the Games.
“Should we be given the privilege of hosting the Games, please be assured that the Sarawak government will work closely with the Government of Malaysia and the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association to deliver a Games worthy of its spirit and aspirations.
“We are committed to doing our utmost to be a gracious and excellent host, and to provide an environment where sporting excellence, friendship and solidarity among our nations can flourish,” he said in a statement.
The MoU lays the groundwork for cooperation and preparations should Sarawak be selected to host the 2029 Games.
Sarawak previously hosted the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in 2024 and will be among the co-hosts of the 33rd SEA Games Malaysia in 2027.
The statement said hosting the ISG would provide Sarawak with an international platform to demonstrate its capability in organising major sporting events.
It would also provide an opportunity to introduce the state’s cultural diversity, hospitality and spirit of unity to athletes, officials and visitors from ISSA member countries.
Held every four years, the ISG brings together athletes from ISSA member countries to promote sporting excellence, friendship and unity.
Also present at the MoU signing were Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datuk Hii Chang Kee, ISSA president Prince Abdulaziz Turki Al Faisal Al Saud, OCM president Tan Sri Datuk Seri Mohamad Norza Zakaria, ISSA secretary-general Nasser Ayman Majali and OCM secretary-general Datuk Mohd Nasir Ali.
