Sukma holiday? There are economic implications, says Premier

BY ALEXANDRA LORNA and NATASHA JEE

KUCHING: The state government has to look into the economic implications before declaring any special public holiday.

In stating this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg acknowledged the enthusiasm for a holiday following the state’s success in becoming overall champion at the 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma) but highlighted the economic implications of such decision.

“We have told the State Secretary about this, but when you declare a public holiday, there are economic consequences, such as the requirement for double pay for workers.

“Therefore, we need to consider other alternatives,” he said after attending the Standard Chartered Bank’s 100th anniversary in Sarawak and high tea event held at Sheraton Hotel here on Sunday (Aug 25).

He said there may be alternative ways to celebrate the achievement without the need for a public holiday.

“We are already offering incentives to the athletes and possibly arranging for some form of rest for those who have been working hard,” he added.

Meanwhile, on Sarawak’s preparations for the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games 2027, he said the state is set to collaborate with the federal government in hosting the event, with the state taking on the role of co-host.

“The specifics will be discussed between Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and our state’s Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah,” he added.
As for the expected allocation of funds for the Sea Games, he said the budget has yet to be determined but acknowledged that it will be significant.

“We still have three years to prepare, so the exact budget will be discussed in due course. It is indeed a large budget, but we will share the financial responsibilities,” he explained.

Abang Johari also said that the current sports facilities in the state are sufficient.

“We have enough stadiums. The Sea Games, although significant, primarily involves regional countries, so the existing infrastructure is adequate. We will be sharing some of the events with the peninsula,” he said.