Sibu all set to host third edition of Sarawak Games 

SIBU: Some 1,300 athletes from four zones in Sarawak will converge on Sibu to compete in 13 sports in the third edition of the Sarawak Games (Suksar) from Jan 15-18.

Sibu Resident Datuk Wong Her Sieng, in his capacity as the organising chairman, said the town’s adequate facilities enabled it to be chosen as the venue for the Games.

“The preparations are running smoothly and we are ready to welcome the presence of athletes from the four zones who will compete at the designated competition venues,” he told a press conference here, yesterday (Jan 10).

Meanwhile, asked about his expectations about the Games, Wong said that hoped the event will display the spirit of sportsmanship and produce outstanding talented athletes who may excel and go on to represent Sarawak at national and international levels.

“Suksar is aimed at young athletes who have never participated in the Malaysia Games (Sukma) and are not involved in any national sports development programmes.

“The state government has stated that Suksar is a key platform to drive Sarawak’s commitment to become a sports powerhouse in the country,” he said.

It will feature four contingents, namely North Zone (Limbang, Miri, Bintulu), Central Zone (Sibu, Mukah, Kapit), West Zone (Sarikei, Betong, Sri Aman), and Southern Zone (Serian, Samarahan, Kuching).

It will include 13 sports — weightlifting, cycling, volleyball, basketball, futsal, hockey, judo, karate, silat, sepak takraw, boxing, Taekwondo, and Wushu.

Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah will officiate at the opening ceremony on Jan 15, while Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will officiate at the closing ceremony on Jan 18.