Preparations for Sukma progressing smoothly, says Abdul Karim

KUCHING: Preparations for hosting the 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak are progressing smoothly and according to schedule, says Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

According to him, the Sarawak government is intensifying the completion of all sports facilities that will be used throughout the Games from Aug 17 to 24.

“There are only two more sports facilities that are still under construction at this time, namely the BMX track and the Sports Village for the Sarawak contingent, while the others are in the final stages of improvements.

“The others are in the final stages, just requiring improvements such as toilets, painting, and so on.

“This includes the main venue, the Sarawak Stadium, which is already complete,” he said during an interview with the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) after leading a Sarawak delegation on a courtesy visit to the Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports of Brunei Darussalam, Datuk Seri Setia Awang Nazmi Awang Mohamad on Wednesday (June 19).

He added that another facility, a new wushu hall, is almost complete, with the appointed contractor working diligently to finish it.

“Besides that, all Chef de Missions (CDMs) from other state contingents will be in Sarawak for three days from June 21 to 23 to attend briefings related to Sukma.”

He noted that besides the briefings, the presence of the CDMs is also to inspect the sports facilities in Kuching, which will host 25 sports.

Earlier, Awang Nazmi said the Brunei Darussalam contingent welcomed the invitation from the Sarawak government and will participate in Sukma.

“Our Brunei Darussalam contingent has always been involved in this biennial event,” he said.