Sarawak gears up for major role in SEA Games 2027, promising economic boost

Fazzruddin speaking to reporters at the Big Screen SEA Games Thailand 2025 Closing Ceremony in Kuching on December 20, 2025. Photo credit: TVS

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Dec 21: Sarawak is preparing to take a leading role in hosting the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games 2027, a move expected to generate significant social and economic benefits for the state while building excitement among the public.

According to a TVS news report, Tupong assemblyman Dato Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman described Sarawak’s involvement as a historic milestone for the State. He said the closing ceremony of the 2025 Thailand SEA Games marked the start of a momentum that Sarawak aims to carry forward until 2027.

“There is a strong sense of pride in Sarawak being chosen to host one of ASEAN’s largest sporting events. This is also an opportunity to showcase Malaysian athletes, particularly those from Sarawak, on home ground,” he told reporters at the Big Screen SEA Games Thailand 2025 Closing Ceremony here on Saturday (Dec 20).

Fazzrudin added that hosting the Games is expected to benefit a wide range of sectors, from food and beverage to hospitality, transportation, and small businesses, providing both economic growth and community engagement.

“Various industries will gain directly from the event, and the positive impact will flow through the state, from large enterprises to smaller local businesses,” he said.

Vice president of the Olympic Council of Malaysia (MOM), Azizul Annuar Adenan, said the handover of the SEA Games Federation flag to Malaysia signals the official start of preparations for SEA Games 2027.

He noted that the announcement has already inspired athletes, especially those from Sarawak, to aim for peak performance on home soil.

“The collaboration between Sarawak, Kuala Lumpur, Johor, and Penang will be essential to deliver a SEA Games that is memorable for both participants and fans,” Azizul said.

For the record, Malaysia finished in fourth place, collecting a total of 231 medals, including 57 gold, 57 silver, and 117 bronze at the Thailand SEA Games 2025. — DayakDaily