KUCHING: Sarawak is poised to elevate its status as a premier destination for major sporting events, with plans to co-host the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.
Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said he is confidence in the state’s readiness, citing its successful track record in hosting several large-scale events, including the recent SUKMA XXI.
“If we were to host part of the SEA Games, it would not only boost tourism but also elevate our standing internationally,” Abdul Karim said in a special interview in ‘Triumphant Sarawak’, a commemorative coffee table book celebrating Sarawak’s achievements at SUKMA XXI.
To prepare for the SEA Games, the state government is already taking proactive steps to upgrade its sports infrastructure.
“We are exploring the possibility of building a velodrome to strengthen our cycling facilities,” he said, stressing Sarawak’s commitment to world-class sporting venues.
Despite the promising outlook, Abdul Karim acknowledged the financial challenges of hosting such a significant event. He did not reveal the amount but it is believed to be in region of RM300 million which Sarawak will fork out, according to sports officials in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Hosting events of this magnitude requires substantial financial commitment, but I believe we are ready to contribute,” he affirmed.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had announced in August that Sarawak would co-host the 2027 SEA Games after Sabah withdrew due to financial constraints.
“Sarawak’s outstanding management of the 2024 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) has demonstrated its capability to host major sporting events. On behalf of the Malaysian government, I am pleased to confirm that Sarawak will partner with us to host the SEA Games in 2027,” the Prime Minister said during the closing ceremony of SUKMA XXI at the Unity Stadium.
With Sarawak’s proven expertise and commitment, the 2027 SEA Games is expected to set a new benchmark for regional sporting events in Malaysia.
The coffee table book, co-authored by Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak CEO Datu Dr. Jeniri Amir and Sarawak Tribune associate editor and columnist M. Rajah, highlights Sarawak’s historic victory at SUKMA XXI.
Packed with over 200 pages of vibrant photographs and compelling writeups, the book captures the state’s journey, from meticulous preparations to the celebratory closing moments.
Nearly three-quarters of the publication is dedicated to stunning visuals that depict the emotions and triumphs of Sarawak’s athletes and fans.
Featuring dual-language captions in Malay and English, the book, commissioned by Abdul Karim’s Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Ministry, not only preserves SUKMA XXI’s legacy but also reflects Sarawak’s excellence in sports and event management.
Both Jeniri and Rajah bring their extensive journalistic expertise to the project, crafting a narrative that resonates with pride and unity. The book also includes reflections on Sarawak’s past achievements in the Malaysia Games and its ambitions for the future.
Abdul Karim lauded the book as an essential read for sports enthusiasts, calling it “a tribute to Sarawak’s resilience, determination, and ability to host world-class events.”
With Sarawak now gearing up for the 2027 SEA Games, the publication serves as a reminder of the state’s unwavering commitment to sporting excellence.
‘Triumphant Sarawak’ will be distributed nationwide and to diplomatic missions, ensuring Sarawak’s remarkable story reaches a wider audience while inspiring future generations of athletes.
