Sarawak pushes for Women’s Sepak Takraw at Sukma 2024 despite low participation

Gerald (crouched, second left) and other officials in a group photo at a field. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 17: Sarawak is set to submit a proposal to ensure that the Women’s Sepak Takraw Team Event continues to be held at the 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma XXI) Sarawak 2024.

According to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) news report, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu stated that currently, only five states have submitted entries, which does not meet the competition quota.

“Tomorrow, the Sukma Supreme Council meeting will be held in Kuala Lumpur. I will join the Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development of Sarawak, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, in attending the meeting.

“We have also discussed with the National Sports Council and the ministry. Although there are only five teams, we hope and appeal for this sport to be included as these five states have been preparing for the competition for a long time,” he was quoted as saying.

Gerald made these remarks to the media after inspecting several Sukma XXI 2024 venues here today.

Regarding incentives for outstanding athletes at this Sukma, Gerald, who is also the Chef De Mission (CDM) for the Sarawak contingent, said that the matter has been discussed and will be announced by the Premier of Sarawak.

“We hope for solid support for our athletes. When we win, there must be incentives. This provides motivation and appreciation for their efforts and struggles,” he said.

Meanwhile, the deputy minister visited several Sukma 2024 venues in Mukah, including Dewan Sri Balau, UiTM Mukah (Judo), Politeknik Mukah (Netball), Stadium Mukah (Football), and MDDM Field (Football).

He also expressed satisfaction with the smooth preparations at each competition venue, including accommodation facilities in Mukah. — DayakDaily