Serian’s radiant evolution: Welcoming Sukma 2024’s artistic gymnastics spectacle

Artistic gymnastics venue for Sukma 2024. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Aug 19: Serian, a place with a great blend of culture and tradition, where the Bidayuhs, Ibans, Chinese, and Malays converge, is abuzz with energy and enthusiasm as it prepares to host the Malaysia Games (Sukma) 2024, showcasing the nation’s premier artistic gymnasts.

Boasting the state-of-the-art Serian Convention Centre (SCC), the venue offers an excellent platform for gymnasts to demonstrate their skills and blow away the judges with their outstanding performances.

SCC facilities for Sukma’s 2024 artistic gymnastics. Photo credit: Ukas

SCC, a venue built for excellence

According to a news report from the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), a recent visit revealed that the SCC was a bustling hub of activity, with many technicians and workers working together, conducting thorough inspections of every equipment piece, from the parallel bars all to the balance beams.

The air was charged with focused diligence as local organisers worked tirelessly to create a flawless and memorable experience for both the athletes and the audience.

One technician shared that every single detail must be impeccable in order for the events to proceed without a hitch, reflecting the unwavering commitment poured into preparing for this prestigious occasion in Serian.

From the mat to the thorny heart of durian

Artistic gymnastics is merely one facet of the dynamic scene that is taking place in Serian. The town is embracing the opportunity to offer a festive experience, ensuring that both visitors and residents are immersed in a celebratory atmosphere throughout Sukma.

Within the SCC grounds, a vibrant food fair will be held for locals to showcase an array of local specialities, celebrating Serian’s rich culinary diversity.

A must-try delicacy for visitors is the ‘durian kunyit’ (turmeric durian), a cherished local variety which is named as such for its rich, yellowish flesh and creamy texture, often celebrated as one of the region’s finest durians.

Tents being set up to prepare for the food fair for Sukma 2024 in Serian. Photo credit: Ukas

Immersed in its rich durian heritage, Serian invites visitors to marvel at its celebrated durian monument; an impressive ten-foot statue stands as a proud symbol of the town’s deep-rooted agricultural traditions, offering a striking reminder of the area’s storied connection to the fruit.

To heighten the festive atmosphere, a lineup of concerts will bring live to Sukma, turning SCC into a vibrant entertainment centre where local performers and musicians will grace the stage, bringing forward the distinctive cultural essence of Serian.

Serian’s renowned durian icon. Photo credit: Ukas

From gymnastics to green spaces

Beyond the excitement surrounding Sukma, explorers of Serian can unwind at Taman Danu Serian, a tranquil man-made lake that has become a beloved retreat for both locals and tourists.

The once marshy area was elegantly transformed into a scenic park, providing a perfect setting for a relaxing stroll after a day of attending the gymnastics events.

Serian’s allure extends beyond its local charm, thanks to its strategic position as a significant international transit hub, located a mere 30 kilometres away from Tebedu’s customs, immigration, and quarantine (CIQ) centre.

This important international link highlights Serian’s importance in the region, serving as a bridge that connects diverse cultures and communities across borders. — DayakDaily

Scenery of Taman Danu Serian. Photo credit: Ukas