BETONG: The Sarawak Games (SUKSAR) IV 2026 plays a crucial role in nurturing confidence, integrity and a fighting spirit essential for success on bigger stages such as the Malaysia Games (SUKMA XXII) 2026, which will be held later this year in Selangor.
Deputy Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said SUKSAR serves as a strategic platform that challenges athletes beyond physical prowess.
“While SUKSAR tests the physical and technical skills of our athletes, it also serves as a critical platform for developing mental toughness, discipline, endurance and sportsmanship,” he said at the opening of SUKSAR IV 2026 at the Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan Sports Hall, here today (Feb 4).
SUKSAR IV 2026 will take place from Feb 5 to 8, involving 773 athletes representing four main zones: North Zone with 227 athletes, Central Zone with 171, West Zone with 164 and South Zone with 211 athletes.
Betong will host weightlifting, cycling, netball and taekwondo, while Sri Aman will stage basketball, petanque, table tennis, softball and boxing. Sepak takraw and karate will be held in Lubok Antu.
A total of 345 medals — comprising 105 gold, 105 silver and 135 bronze — will be contested.
Rentap emphasised the importance of SUKSAR in preparing Sarawak’s athletes for the upcoming Malaysia Games (SUKMA XXII), scheduled to take place from Aug 15 to 24, 2026, in Selangor.
“SUKSAR is more than a competition; it is a proving ground for our athletes to build confidence, enhance competitiveness and gain invaluable experience,” he said.
He also called on coaches and sports officials to continue playing a vital role in guiding athletes holistically, focusing not only on performance but also on character building, discipline, leadership and the cultivation of a winning mentality.
“SUKSAR IV 2026 offers a golden opportunity for athletes to demonstrate their true capabilities, strengthen their self-belief and showcase a high fighting spirit. Let this be the launchpad for their journey to greater achievements,” he added.
