Sarawak to finalise incentives for Sukma, Para Sukma medallists on Thursday

KUCHING: The Sarawak government is set to finalise the incentives for athletes who secured medals in the Malaysia Games (Sukma) and Para Sukma, with discussions to take place during the Cabinet meeting on Thursday (Aug 22).

According to Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has a specific calculation method for determining the incentives.

Based on the predicted 70 gold medals from Sukma and 80 gold medals from Para Sukma, the Premier calculated the incentive amount by multiplying the number of gold medals by RM15,000 each.

“So, that’s how the figure came about,” Abdul Karim explained after presenting medals to winners at the Sarawak Squash Centre on Wednesday (Aug 21).

However, he emphasised that the incentive calculations should account for more than just gold medals, considering second and third-place finishes and team events.

Abdul Karim expressed optimism about Sarawak’s chances of achieving the 70-gold target, stating that the state is on track to becoming the overall champion.

“Whether we hit 70 or not, that is immaterial. But personally, I feel we might be able to hit the 70-figure, looking at it,” he said.

He also noted that the competition is fierce, with all states showing significant improvement in sports, which could result in the gold medals being more evenly distributed.

However, Sarawak has managed to maintain a substantial lead over the second-place contender.

Regarding the incentives for team events, Abdul Karim mentioned that it has not yet been finalised but could follow the same formula as individual incentives.

“It has not been finalised yet. But if we follow the way of giving, what each individual can get, each group can get the same amount. It was like that before, but things might change,” he added.

He assured that further details would be shared after the Cabinet meeting, where the matter will be deliberated and potentially finalised.