3,000 SUKMA volunteers at 49 venues 

KUCHING: The final count of approximately 3,000 volunteers for the upcoming Malaysia Games (SUKMA) is sufficient despite an earlier projection of 4,000 volunteers, said Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu.

The Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) said this today (Aug 10) during a press conference after officiating at the SUKMA Sarawak ‘Here We Go’ General Volunteers Assembly at Sarawak Youth and Sports Complex.

“While we initially anticipated 4,000 volunteers, the current number stands at just under 3,000. This figure aligns well with the needs of our 49 SUKMA venues.

“In fact, the number of applicants far exceeded our needs, but we selected based on specific requirements as the current volunteer count does not include government officials who are also contributing behind the scenes.

“Approximately 4,000 people are actually working to support the event, not including the trainers who have joined us. We’ve held sessions with these volunteers, and although much of the work happens behind the scenes, their contributions are invaluable,” he said.

He added that without these volunteers, it would be difficult to manage an event of this scale, which includes 37 sports and 488 events.

Rentap acknowledged potential challenges, particularly in open-field venues where weather could be a factor, but noted that the volunteers have been trained in essential skills, including first aid, to serve as first responders and support health officials.

The minister also highlighted the significance of volunteering as a pathway for personal development, providing life skills that extend beyond the event itself, saying that many people applied, but they could only take 3,000.

He added that this number ensures that the volunteers are well-prepared to manage their responsibilities effectively.

“Many of the volunteers are new faces. The last time Sarawak won SUKMA was 30 years ago, and most of them weren’t even young then. This time, our youth are stepping up, eager to be part of something impactful. It’s like the Olympics—a big show. I’m proud to see so many bright, happy faces,” he noted.

He further shared that the volunteers have been recorded in a database, ensuring a ready pool of experienced individuals for future events.

If Sarawak co-hosts the SEA Games in 2027, there will already be a pool of experienced volunteers ready. With the existing database, it will be easy to call on them again to serve as volunteers.

“Originally, 12,000 people applied to volunteer, showing the spirit and willingness of the people of Sarawak. This is something special about us—all races in Sarawak are involved. This demonstrates our strong unity, especially for our athletes,” he said.