KUCHING: Sarawak has welcomed Selangor’s decision to forgo a centralised Games Village for the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA), with the logistics-driven approach expected to improve efficiency across the multi-district competition format.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the move aligns with the structure of SUKMA 2026, which will be staged across all nine districts in Selangor.
He was commenting on the announcement by Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari, who said the decision was agreed upon during the SUKMA Supreme Committee meeting as part of broader cost-saving measures.
Under the arrangement, athletes will receive a subsidy of RM100 per day, while contingents will manage their own accommodation.
Abdul Karim said the absence of a traditional Games Village is largely driven by logistical requirements and the need to reduce congestion and travel time for athletes competing in different locations.
“I believe it is a better arrangement. With SUKMA being held across multiple districts, it is more practical for athletes to stay within the districts where their respective events are being held,” he said today (Apr 13).
He added that the decentralised format would help streamline operations and improve overall movement of athletes and officials throughout the Games.
“It will be easier and more efficient for the athletes to be based within their competition districts. This approach will help smoothen the running of SUKMA,” he said.
Abdul Karim also assured that Sarawak’s contingent would be well-prepared under the new arrangement, with all logistical needs carefully planned.
“All logistics for Sarawak athletes are in order. They will be accommodated within the districts where their respective sports are held,” he said.
The SUKMA 2026 edition in Selangor is scheduled from Aug 15 to 24, featuring events spread across multiple venues statewide.
