KUCHING: While West Kalimantan will not compete at the Borneo Games 2025, organisers stressed they are not disheartened, noting that preparations remain on track for the Games’ long-awaited return.
Acting chief executive officer of Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) Khairul Nizam Morshidi said the absence of West Kalimantan was possibly due to administrative and budgetary constraints, compounded by recent changes in the province’s leadership.
“When we invited the Kalimantan provinces, a new governor had just been appointed.
“They needed confirmation from Jakarta before sending a contingent, and that process could not be completed in time,” he told reporters after welcoming Kenyalang Warrior
and Cheer Team for Borneo Games 2025 at Sarawak Sports Village on Thursday (Sept 18).
Khairul noted that planning for participation typically begins years in advance, allowing contingents to allocate budgets and prepare teams.
“This year’s timeline was tight, especially with the Games being revived after more than a decade,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dr Ripin Lamat who was also present added that organisers understood the situation and were able to adjust accordingly.
“We are improvising and ensuring the message about the Borneo Games reaches the public,” he said,
Nevertheless, Ripin who is also Sarawak’s chef de mission (CDM) stressed that the event’s spirit remains intact despite the changes.
The Borneo Games, last held in Labuan in 2013, will return to Sarawak from Sept 24 to 28 at the Sarawak Sports Complex in Petra Jaya.
The Games will still feature contingents from Sarawak, Sabah, Brunei, Labuan and East Kalimantan.
