Sarawak gearing up to host biggest Sukma ever

KUCHING: Sarawak is gearing up to host the biggest ever Malaysia Games (Sukma), which begins next week.

Sukma chief executive officer Datuk Hii Chang Kee said the Games would take place in nine administrative divisions across Sarawak, making it the largest in terms of geographical spread.

"We want to make sure that many Sarawakians throughout the state will be able to enjoy the Games," he said at a media session here on Thursday (Aug 8).

Besides Kuching, which will host the majority of sports, other locations include Sibu for football, volleyball and badminton; Bintulu (sepak takraw and muay thai); Miri (rugby, softball, sailing, karate, silat and fencing); Betong (weightlifting); Mukah (netball and judo); Sri Aman (boxing); Serian (gymnastics) and Kota Samarahan (chess and futsal).

Hii also said the coming Sukma would feature the most sports and participants.

He said 488 events would be held in 37 sports, involving over 10,000 athletes, coaches and managers in 15 contingents.

"Besides contingents from every state in Malaysia, we also have one from Brunei," he said.

In addition, Hii said 20 of the 37 sports would be broadcast live on RTM, TVS and digital platforms.

"This is the first time we are providing more comprehensive live coverage of Sukma," he said.

He added that a Sukma app would also be launched for detailed information and coverage of the Games.

Sukma will be held from Aug 17 to 24, followed by the Para Malaysia Games (Para Sukma) on Sept 22-28.