KUCHING: Sarawak’s boxers are stepping up preparations for the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2026 through a three-week training camp in Thailand aimed at raising their performance and exposing them to higher-level competition.
Sarawak SUKMA Boxing Squad manager Datuk Johnny Ting Su King said the camp was organised to provide the athletes with a more professional and systematic training environment ahead of the Games in Selangor from Aug 15 to 24.
“Our main objective in sending the boxers to train in Thailand is to improve their performance in various aspects.
“Throughout the training camp, the focus will be placed on several key areas,” Johnny told Sarawak Tribune.
He said the programme covers improving physical fitness, building endurance and developing a stronger foundation to help the athletes cope with the demands of actual competition.
According to Johnny, the three-week stint in Thailand is also focused on refining the boxers’ fundamentals through guidance from professional coaches, while enhancing their attacking and defensive techniques and ability to apply them effectively in real fight situations.
“At the same time, they will gain valuable experience through training sessions and friendly bouts against top boxers from various regions in the neighbouring country.
“It will also help strengthen team spirit, discipline, confidence and professionalism, while cultivating a positive attitude and strong sporting values,” he added.
Johnny said the squad would train alongside boxers from the renowned Highland Boxing Gym in Bangkok, Thailand, throughout their stay.
“They will train with boxers there and also take part in friendly bouts,” he added.
The squad’s mission at SUKMA 2026 is to defend the four gold medals won at the previous edition.
“We (SABA) sincerely hope our participation in Selangor will see an increase in our gold medal tally.
“I believe all the boxers are ready to face the real challenge of SUKMA 2026,” said Johnny.
He added that the current squad still features several experienced boxers who contributed medals at the previous Games, alongside promising new faces.
At SUKMA 2024, Sarawak’s boxing team finished with 11 medals, comprising four gold, four silver and three bronze.
