Reaping a positive economic benefits

MIRI: The SUKMA Games is expected to bring significant economic benefits and showcase the beauty of the city on a broader scale, according to Miri Member of Parliament (MP), Chiew Choon Man.

He said this after a visit to the SUKMA media room at the Miri Indoor Stadium this morning (Aug 16), expressing his excitement about the positive impact the event will have on the local economy.

Chiew also highlighted that the influx of athletes, officials, and visitors during the event would provide a substantial boost to local businesses.

“Increase hotel occupancy, higher patrons in restaurant, and retail stores are among the expected outcomes, offering a much-needed opportunity for local entrepreneurs and small business owners to recover and grow in the post-pandemic economy,” he stated.

“The SUKMA Games will also serve as a catalyst for tourism in Miri. With visitors coming from all over Malaysia, this event presents a unique opportunity to showcase Miri’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tourist attractions to a broader audience,” Chiew added.

He further emphasised that by hosting a national-level event, the city would have higher tourist arrivals in the future, as visitors share their positive experiences and encourage others to visit the city.

Furthermore, Chiew noted that by hosting the SUKMA Games it would put Sarawak in the spotlight, demonstrating the state’s capability to organise and host large-scale events.

This visibility, he said, could attract foreign investment, as investors will see the state’s infrastructure, hospitality, and services, leading to long-term economic benefits and development opportunities.

“The preparation and execution of the SUKMA Games will create temporary employment opportunities across various sectors, including event management, hospitality, and transportation. These jobs will provide a short-term boost to the local job market, offering valuable work experience and income for many residents,” Chiew explained.

He also pointed out that the skills and experience gained through these opportunities could contribute to the professional development of the local workforce.

In his concluding remarks, Chiew urged all residents and stakeholders to embrace the opportunity presented by the SUKMA Games and to work together to ensure the event’s success.