KUCHING: Sarawak SUKMA underlined their championship credentials by overcoming a star-studded Borneo Thunder outfit in a gripping five-set final to lift the SIVI 2026 men’s title.
Twice forced to come from behind, the Sarawak side held their nerve in the decisive set to complete a hard-fought 16-25, 25-16, 20-25, 25-19, 15-10 victory at the Sarawak International Volleyball Invitation (SIVI) 2026, which concluded on Aug 2 at the Sibu Volleyball Indoor Stadium.
Borneo Thunder entered the final boasting an experienced squad that included three Thai players, newly crowned National Open 2026 Most Valuable Player Mohd Asri Muharia, former Selangor SUKMA libero Tay Zhi Yung and several former Sarawak SUKMA players.
Despite surrendering the opening set, Sarawak responded immediately to level the match before again recovering after dropping the third set to force a winner-takes-all decider.
The home side remained composed when it mattered most, pulling away to claim the fifth set 15–10 and secure the championship.
Sarawak’s title-winning squad featured a blend of experience and emerging talent, including 2024 SUKMA Best Libero Frankie Su, Alvin Ting, Lim Zhao Kwang, Howard Liew San Hao, Ley Yee Wen and first-time SUKMA player Lee Lum Min.
The victory completed an impressive campaign for the hosts, with Borneo Thunder finishing runners-up while another Sarawak team secured third place.
