KUCHING: It is a waiting game until April 30 for the Sarawak Sepak Takraw Association, with the association maintaining its training plans ahead of a key decision on the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in Selangor this August.
Its President, Datuk Ismail Abang Saufi, said the association will continue preparations as usual while awaiting the outcome of a special meeting next week on April 30, which is expected to deliberate on the proposed postponement of the Games.
“The decision ultimately lies with the federal authorities. At this stage, we understand that a meeting will be held on April 30 before any announcement is made on whether it will be postponed or not,” he said.
He added that the association will not make any premature changes to its plans until an official directive is issued.
“At our level, we will carry on as normal. Training, welfare and all related matters will continue until we receive a decision from the higher authorities after April 30,” he told reporters when met at the Association of Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders of Malaysia (PEKEMA) today (April 23).
Ismail noted that the uncertainty has posed logistical challenges, particularly in securing venues and accommodation for the team.
He added that the association is also dealing with the added complexity of managing players from across the state, with athletes coming from areas such as Lawas, Miri, Sarikei and Betong.
To address this, the association is working towards centralising its training programme in Kuching.
“We are trying to bring as many players as possible to Kuching so they can train together. It is a blessing in disguise as we can place them in a more structured, centralised environment,” he said.
Ismail also pointed out that a potential postponement could present an opportunity for further development.
“If the Games are postponed by a year, it could give us more time to build a stronger and more cohesive team. Insya-Allah, we will be able to prepare a good team,” he added.
The proposed postponement of the upcoming SUKMA follows suggestions by Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who had proposed delaying the Games until the conflict in the Middle East subsides and the renovation of Shah Alam Stadium is completed.
