KUCHING: Selangor’s preparation for Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2026 include a unique opening ceremony at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), where it will start with a traditional torch handover, and feature 37 sports with 474 medal events across upgraded venues.
The opening ceremony will be held at the Sepang racing circuit instead of a stadium. This change is due to ongoing renovations at the Shah Alam Stadium, which is currently being rebuilt.
The event will kick off with the traditional torch handover from the previous host, Sarawak, symbolising the passing of responsibility to Selangor.
Following this, Selangor plans to organise a torch relay across the state as part of the lead-up to the Games.
Selangor’s Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Exco, Mohd Najwan Halimi, said they are proud to bring the SUKMA opening ceremony to Sepang circuit for the first time.
“This unique venue will add a fresh and thrilling atmosphere to the Games. We have also upgraded more than 80 per cent of our sports facilities to ensure athletes can compete at their best,” he said.
Key venues such as the Shah Alam Aquatic Centre and the Subang Shooting Range are among those undergoing major upgrades, with completion expected by April 2026.
Other facilities across nine districts will also be utilised to host the 37 sports and 474 medal events, with Petaling Jaya and Klang districts serving as the main hubs.
“The Games will unite communities across Selangor. While we focus on Petaling and Klang, we are also engaging other districts to host selected events to foster wider participation,” he told reporters at a press conference and handover ceremony of the torch at Baitulmakmur Building II today.
Registration for state contingents will remain open until February 13 via the Game Management System (GMS).
Volunteer training programmes have also commenced to support the smooth running of the Games.
“We encourage all states to register early and for volunteers to join us in making SUKMA 2026 a success. We are also preparing to invite Brunei to participate, reflecting our commitment to regional sporting friendship,” Najwan added.
Although there have been requests from countries such as the Philippines and Indonesia, official invitations have yet to be issued.
“We continue to explore opportunities to broaden SUKMA’s reach, but our priority remains delivering an outstanding national event for all Malaysian athletes,” he said.
