Sarawak’s co-hosting 2027 SEA Games expected to boost regional recognition

KUCHING: Co-hosting the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games is expected to boost Sarawak’s profile within the region.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said hosting the biennial multi-sport event would put Sarawak on the international sports map and enhance global recognition for the state.

With that, he stressed that the state must begin its preparations soon in order to ensure the event’s success.

“It is likely most (of the sport events) will take place in Sarawak, as we have agreed to cover 50 per cent of the organisational costs.

“Though the costs are high, for the sake of sports development and the youth in Sarawak, we are committed to co-hosting the SEA Games.

“When we become joint hosts, the visiting nations will undoubtedly know where Sarawak is and this will surely elevate our status,” he said during the Sarawak Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024 Contingent incentive presentation at Riverside Majestic Hotel last night (Sept 14).

On Aug 29, Federal Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said three states – Sarawak, Sabah and Penang – had agreed to co-host the 2027 SEA Games with Kuala Lumpur.

Hannah said all three states also agreed to bear the estimated RM700 million in organisational costs.

The coming Games will mark the seventh time Malaysia has hosted the SEA Games, with previous editions held in 1965, 1971, 1977, 1989, 2001, and 2017.