BY GABRIEL LIHAN & ELVINA TING
KUCHING: Doubts over Sarawak’s target of over 70 gold medals at the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) were quickly dismissed by Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu.
“I don’t think I will say it if I am not confident about it, so that’s number one,” he said, expressing confidence that Sarawak remains on track to achieve its target despite stronger competition in Selangor.
Speaking to the media after officiating the Sarawak Shogun Workshop at Sarawak Sports Village, Rentap said about 30 per cent of the Sarawak contingent consists of athletes with previous SUKMA experience, while the rest are new to the Games.
He acknowledged that competing away from home presents additional challenges compared to Sarawak’s previous hosting advantage.
“This time, it is not like when we hosted SUKMA at home. The competition venues are spread out and far apart, so there are some challenges,” he said.
Rentap added that logistical arrangements such as accommodation and transport will require careful coordination.
“In Sarawak, when we hosted SUKMA, everything was arranged. This time, everyone has to find their own hotels and transport,” he said.
Despite the challenges, he remains confident that the Sarawak contingent can meet its target with proper preparation, teamwork and commitment from coaches and associations.
“With proper preparation and cooperation from the coaches and associations, I believe we can achieve our target,” he said.
He also called on Sarawakians in West Malaysia to support the state contingent during the Games.
“We hope our ‘anak Sarawak’ in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and West Malaysia will come and support Team Sarawak.
“They will give us high spirits wherever we go. We can be heroes and warriors anywhere,” he said.
Also present at the event was Sarawak Sports Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mu’azamir Jili.
