KUCHING: Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, expressed strong interest in bringing boxing to Sarawak during the 2027 SEA Games, citing the state’s rising performance and growing public enthusiasm for the sport.
Sarawak is set to host 18 out of the 36 sports for the biennial multi-sport event, with hopes running high that boxing, where the state has emerged as a national powerhouse, will be among the events held locally.
“We’ve seen a significant improvement in boxing in Sarawak, especially during the last SUKMA, where we won multiple gold medals,” he said to reporters today at the MTCP and MYSED’s Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri celebration at the Waterfront Hotel here.
“Our athletes are performing well and the sport is enjoying growing support from the public.”
While Sarawak is ready and willing, the final decision on where boxing will be held rests with the national governing body.
“We have informed them of our interest.
“If we do not get it, it may go to Peninsular Malaysia. I understand Penang is also interested,” he added.
In terms of venues, Abdul Karim said Sarawak is well-prepared, mentioning Stadium Perpaduan and even Sri Aman as possible sites for the boxing events.
“I would love for it to be held in Sri Aman.
“The energy and enthusiasm from the crowd there during previous boxing events was incredible.
“A passionate crowd can truly elevate the performance of athletes,” he said.
On cycling, he acknowledged that the velodrome currently remains under planning, and is unlikely to be ready in time for the 2027 Games.
“Most likely, cycling will be held in Peninsular Malaysia.
“However, plans are in place to build the first velodrome in Borneo, right here in Kuching,” he revealed.
“A capacity of around 3,000 to 4,000 spectators would be sufficient, but we also aim for a multi-purpose facility – something that can also host meetings and other events.”
As for the confirmed sports to be held in Sarawak, he listed several based on the state’s superior infrastructure and readiness, which are swimming, diving, tenpin bowling, archery, shooting, and potentially taekwondo and lawn bowls.
Currently, the distribution of the 36 sports sees 18 in Sarawak, 15 in Kuala Lumpur, four in Penang, and one in Johor.
“We are working hard to ensure Sarawak plays a key role in hosting this major regional event.
“Our facilities are ready, and our athletes and supporters are too,” he said.
