Sarawak eyes hosting 7th Islamic Solidarity Games in 2029

Abdul Karim (second left) and others at the MoU signing ceremony between at the 15th ISSA General Assembly in Taif, Saudi Arabia, recently. Source: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

SAUDI ARABIA, Sept 14: Sarawak has expressed its intention to host the 7th Islamic Solidarity Games (ISG) in 2029 by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA), the Sarawak government, and the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) recently.

According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) news report, the MoU was signed alongside the 15th ISSA General Assembly in Taif, Saudi Arabia, paving the way for cooperation and laying the groundwork for preparations should Sarawak be selected to host the Games.

Sarawak Minister for Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the Sarawak government is committed to working closely with the Malaysian government and ISSA if given the opportunity to host the ISG.

“Should we be given the privilege of hosting the games, please be assured that the Sarawak government will work closely with the government of Malaysia and the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association to deliver a Games worthy of its spirit and aspirations.

“We are committed to doing our utmost to be a gracious and excellent host, and to provide an environment where sporting excellence, friendship, and solidarity among our nations can flourish,” he said.

Abdul Karim added that hosting the games would give Sarawak an international platform to showcase its capability in staging major sporting events, while introducing the State’s cultural diversity, hospitality, and spirit of unity to athletes, officials, and visitors from ISSA member countries.

The aspiration also aligns with Sarawak’s experience hosting major sporting events, including the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024 and its role as one of the co-hosts of the 33rd SEA Games Malaysia 2027.

The ISG is held every four years, bringing together athletes from ISSA member countries to celebrate sporting excellence, friendship and unity.

Also present at the MoU signing ceremony were Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operations) Datu Hii Chang Kee, ISSA president His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz Turki Al Faisal Al Saud, OCM president Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria, ISSA secretary-general Nasser Ayman Majali, and OCM secretary-general Datuk Mohd Nasir Ali. — DayakDaily