High-tech and heritage on show

The Sarawak contingent marching into the stadium during the Sukma opening ceremony.

Sarawak Stadium bursts into life for the spectacular opening ceremony of the 21st edition of Sukma.

AN expectant hush fell over the crowd before the night sky above Sarawak Stadium in Kuching burst into life with drone formations and a dazzling light show, spelling out words and patterns.

This was the moment Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar placed his palm on a tablet, officially launching the Malaysia Games (Sukma) in a spectacular opening ceremony for the 21st edition of the event, hosted by Sarawak from Aug 17-24.

The drones illuminated the sky with “Sukma XXI Sarawak” and the Games’ theme, “Semangat Perpaduan Membara”, before forming the Sarawak flag and an “I Love Malaysia” logo, as laser beams flashed across the stadium.

The ceremony began with a mesmerising performance inspired by Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity, blending tradition with modern technology.

A magnificent fireworks display brought the opening ceremony to a grand conclusion.

A sape musician set the tone with a lilting melody from the traditional Orang Ulu string instrument as 1,800 performers danced gracefully. The performance then transitioned into a hip-hop version of a folk tune, accompanied by flashing lights and dynamic floor displays.

Following the cultural performance, the 15 contingents participating in Sukma paraded into the stadium with their flags and mascots, each greeted by loud cheers from the 40,000-strong crowd.

The theme song Kesukanan Dalam Perpaduan (Sportsmanship in Unity) played as the Sukma flag was raised, followed by the recital of the pledge led by Sarawak diver Enrique Mccartney Harold.

Malaysian artistes Faizal Tahir, Jaclyn Victor, and Marsha Milan then took to the stage, entertaining the crowd.

The opening ceremony was a showcase of Sarawak’s cultural heritage and advanced technology.

Eight-year-old Dion Das Louis, who recently won gold in the junior ethnic dance category at the World Championships of Performing Arts in the United States, also performed a traditional dance.

In a fitting finale, Sarawakian boxer Daeloniel Mcdelon Bong, better known as Kilat Boy, led the final leg of the Sukma torch relay into the stadium.

The torch was passed to Sarawak’s diving queen, Datuk Pandelela Rinong, who symbolically lit the Sukma cauldron with replica flames, while a drone-carried replica hornbill flew around the stadium.

The ceremony concluded with an extravagant fireworks display.

For Sarawakians, the ceremony was a proud moment, showcasing the state at its best.

Faizal Tahir rocking the stage during the Sukma opening ceremony.

“Sarawak has done exceptionally well. Even though Sukma is a national event, the opening ceremony felt like an international event,” said Jason Yeo, adding that this demonstrated Sarawak’s readiness to host major sporting events like the 2027 SEA Games.

Yeo, who watched the live broadcast, remarked on the lively atmosphere, highlighting the lasers, drones, fireworks, and excellent selection of singers.

“What I liked most was Faizal Tahir and the others singing songs like Gemuruh Jiwa, which really unite Malaysians and inspire the spirit of sportsmanship.

Performers in traditional Sarawak costumes were all set to welcome Sukma contingents at the Sarawak Stadium.

“Also, Sarawak organised the ceremony in tune with our cultural heritage, with a lion dance, Chinese drum troupe, and Dion’s performance, which truly reflects Sarawak’s identity,” he said.

For Sahrein Maloh, the ceremony was a blend of advanced technology, synchronised drones, fireworks, and local performances.

He also noted the high-tech elements, including a giant LED screen on the pitch at the stadium’s centre, where the performances took place.

“Some questioned the use of an imitation torch as a symbol, but Sarawak is committed to becoming a sustainable green state, recognising the significance of environmental preservation. Sarawak’s strong financial standing and good governance make it a potential co-host for the 2027 SEA Games,” he added.