KUCHING: Sarawak is prepared to take on the role of co-host for the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Malaysia, with plans to host 18 sports events within the state.
Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah confirmed that discussions have been ongoing with the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh on the matter.
“I have actually discussed it with Hannah including with the private sector in Kuala Lumpur. It hasn’t been officially announced yet, but we (Sarawak) will be co-hosts.
“We have also talked about which sports will be hosted in Sarawak and which will be in Peninsular Malaysia.
“We are very fortunate that they are giving us a lot of leeway to choose which sports we want to host in Sarawak where in total there will be 36 sports, and 18 of them will be held in Sarawak,” he said.
He said this to reporters when met at the Dancing Queen Concert – A Tribute to ABBA and Queen held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here last night (June 23).
Asked on whether the stadiums in the state will be upgraded, Abdul Karim said hosting major events like the SEA Games necessitates upgrading to sport facilities.
“Every time we host a major sports event, we need to do some upgrading. This is beneficial for the industry, particularly the construction industry, as well as those involved in painting and repairs.
“The upgrades to the stadiums will definitely take place,” he said.
Unlike Malaysia Games (SUKMA), he said the SEA Games is expected to attract more 20,000 athletes and officials in addition to their supporters and families.
On whether the 18 sports will be spread across different areas in the state or just concentrated in Kuching, Abdul Karim said discussions have yet to reach that level yet.
“However, we are looking to focus more on Kuching because most of the excellent facilities are there, such as the aquatic centre, Megalane for bowling, and Sarawak Stadium.
“These are the locations where most of the activities will take place,” he said.
