KUCHING: After a 12-year hiatus, the Borneo Games made a historic return yesterday (24 Sept) with an opening ceremony at the Petra Jaya Sports Complex, marking Sarawak’s pride in hosting the 2025 edition of the regional multi-sport event.
Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, the Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak and chairman of the Borneo Games Kuching 2025, mentioned that the revival of the Games stood for more than just sporting excellence.
“This is not only a celebration of sports, but also of brotherhood and friendship across Borneo. Athletes and communities from Sarawak, Sabah, Labuan, Brunei Darussalam, and East Kalimantan are united here under one spirit,” he said during the opening ceremony.
Initially held in Labuan in 2013, the Borneo Games return this year from 24 to 28 September, with over 1,000 athletes and officials expected to participate.
Rentap highlighted that preparations had been comprehensive, with the Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) and the Games Secretariat ensuring readiness in all aspects, including venues, accommodation, transport, safety, and volunteer support.
“The committees formed for this event reflect strong collaboration between state and federal agencies, sports associations, the private sector, and volunteers. It is a true team effort that makes Sarawak proud,” he added.
The upgraded Petra Jaya Sports Complex, which hosted the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) last year, now serves as the main venue for the Borneo Games.
Acknowledging the challenges of reviving the event after more than a decade, Rentap emphasised that it was the combined efforts of all parties that brought the Games back to life.
“The Borneo Games Kuching 2025 is a success we share together,” he stressed.
Beyond sports, the Games are expected to generate economic benefits through tourism, hospitality, transport, food, and entrepreneurship, with a special carnival held alongside the event to provide small businesses the opportunity to showcase local products and cultural heritage in line with Sarawak’s vision to become a regional hub for sports and tourism by 2030.
Rentap mentioned that the real legacy of the Games lies in unity, talent development, and volunteerism rather than just medals.
“I hope this event becomes a platform to nurture new athletes who can go on to represent Sarawak and Borneo at the SEA Games, Asian Games, and even the Olympics,” he said.
He also urged the public to lend their support from the stands.
“Your presence and cheers will be the strength of our athletes as they give their best and bring pride to our state, nation, and region,” he said.
