SRI AMAN: A fiercely contested lightweight (60kg) bout at the Sarawak Games (SUKSAR) IV 2026 highlighted the rising standard of Sarawak boxing, leaving Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu impressed by the fighters’ determination and progress.
The Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development praised the high level of competition and the commitment displayed by the athletes throughout the tournament.
“I’m very pleased with how the boxing matches have been conducted. I received feedback from the fighters, officials, and technical teams. The event is running well.
“We could see from the earlier fights that they gave their all,” he told reporters at the Sri Aman Indoor Stadium Sports Complex today (Feb 6).
Among the medallists in the lightweight 60kg category were Wayne Kho Hae Kai from the Central zone, who took gold; Davis Beckham Mit of the Southern zone, who won silver; and Oliver Ngu Tian Lok (Northern zone) and Jackson Daniel Dom (Western zone), who both secured bronze medals.
“I think the last fight impressed me because it was an all-out fight. I’ve seen some of them fight previously, and the standards have gone up,” he said.
Additionally, Rentap highlighted that beyond physical training, the bouts – held from Feb 5 to 6 – have helped the fighters develop strong mental toughness, an important factor in facing future opponents at higher levels.
“Events like SUKSAR provide an excellent platform for our boxers to gain experience and confidence.
“It’s encouraging to see clubs forming in many areas such as Sri Aman, which expands the pool of talent and creates more opportunities for sparring and development,” he added.
Rentap also acknowledged plans by the boxing association to expand fights beyond Sri Aman to further boost the sport’s profile and continuity.
Also in attendance was Deputy President of the Sarawak Amateur Boxing Association (SABA), Datuk Johnny Ting Su King.
