KUCHING: The Borneo Games are set to make a long-awaited return after more than a decade, with a tentative schedule set for Sept 24 to 28.
The announcement followed a special meeting chaired by Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Delegates from Brunei Darussalam, Sabah, Labuan, and Indonesia’s West and East Kalimantan provinces participated in the meeting—both physically and via Zoom—and tentatively agreed on the proposed dates.
Abdul Karim expressed confidence that the revived Borneo Games, which were last held in 2013, will continue as a regular feature in the region’s sporting calendar.
“The Borneo Games were first held in 1955, with the last edition taking place in 2013. Since then, the event has not been organised again.
“In addition to fostering closer ties, the Borneo Games also serve to elevate sports development.
“By revitalising the Games, we are empowering a new generation of youth, as these events primarily involve young people,” he told reporters at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex on Monday (Apr 14).
The Sarawak Sports Corporation has been appointed as the secretariat. Abdul Karim will serve as patron, while Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu as chairman.
“It’s time we revive this historic event and ensure it becomes a regular fixture. While this year’s edition will be hosted by Sarawak, the Games will rotate every two years among Brunei, Labuan, Sabah, and the Kalimantan provinces,” he added.
Five sports have been confirmed — athletics, swimming, lawn bowls, archery, and badminton.
An invitational VIP golf event is also being considered, with the possibility of adding more sports in future editions.
