KUCHING: Sarawak will kick-start its preparations for the 22nd Para SUKMA in 2026 as early as February next year, with a focus on identifying and nurturing new talent.
“We will initiate preparations well in advance, providing our athletes with the necessary exposure and training to defend our championship title for the 15th time,” said Sarawak’s Para SUKMA Chef de Mission (CDM) Datuk Mohamad Razi Sitam
“The search for new talents will commence in February to unearth rising stars who will carry Sarawak’s legacy forward.”
The Deputy Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development expressed immense pride in Sarawak’s dominant performance at the recent Para SUKMA Games.
Sarawak’s Para athletes successfully defended their overall championship title for the 14th consecutive time.
Mohamad Razi reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to enhancing the performance of its Para athletes leading up to the 2026 Para SUKMA in Selangor.
“This success is a testament to the dedication and spirit of collaboration among our athletes, coaches, officials, and all the agencies involved,” he said during the Para SUKMA appreciation dinner held at Riverside Majestic Hotel on Friday.
Reflecting on Sarawak’s impressive medal haul of 82 gold, 53 silver, and 74 bronze (a total of 209 medals), Mohamad Razi lauded their extraordinary performance.
“This victory is a testament to the years of hard work and development that have gone into building a strong foundation for Sarawak’s Para athletes,” he said.
“We are proud of the results, and we know that this achievement will inspire future generations of athletes to push their limits.”
The Sarawak Para Contingent’s performance at the 2024 Para SUKMA has also set a new benchmark for the development of sports in Malaysia.
“As the host state, Sarawak has demonstrated its commitment to organising the best Para SUKMA to date, with a focus on unity and excellence among athletes from across the country,” Mohamad Razi added.
With the successful 2024 edition now concluded, Mohamad Razi and the Sarawak team are setting their sights on the 2026 Para SUKMA in Selangor.
“We are focused on our goal for 2026, and I am confident that our athletes will continue to perform at the highest level,” he said.
“Together, we will achieve even greater success.”
During the event, Mohamad Razi presented souvenirs of appreciation to 10 sports associations that participated in the Para SUKMA.
Also present were Sarawak Social Welfare Department director Semawi and Sarawak State Youth and Sports Department director Lamat Nyalau.
