Sukma XXI ends with a celebration of unity and sportsmanship

KUCHING (Aug 25): The lights dimmed, the music swelled, and the curtain fell on the 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma XXI) last night at Stadium Perpaduan here, closing out a chapter that will be remembered for generations.

For Sarawak, the host state, this wasn’t just the end of another sports event – it was the culmination of three decades of anticipation, sweat, and unwavering determination.

As fireworks lit up the Sarawak sky, the echoes of victory resonated far beyond the stadium walls.

After a long 30-year wait, Sarawak reclaimed its place at the pinnacle of Malaysian sports by clinching the overall championship.

The coveted title, last won by Sarawak in 1994, was once again brought home, marking the state’s third overall triumph in the biennial Games since its inception in 1986.

The journey to victory was no small feat.

From Aug 17, Sarawak became the battleground for 12,010 athletes from across Malaysia and Brunei, each vying for glory.

Sarawak’s athletes, however, rose above the rest, delivering an extraordinary performance.

With 76 gold, 54 silver, and 68 bronze medals, they secured their place at the top of the medal tally, making history in their own backyard.

But it wasn’t just the gold, silver, and bronze that defined these games.

The success of Sukma XXI went beyond the medal count, reflecting Sarawak’s ability to host an event of such scale with elegance and efficiency.

The state mobilised over 3,000 volunteers and staff, whose tireless efforts behind the scenes ensured that every detail, from logistics to hospitality, was handled with precision.

The massive volunteer force received well-deserved recognition for their role in bringing the largest and most ambitious edition of Sukma to life.

The closing ceremony itself was a testament to the unity and sportsmanship that Sukma XXI sought to foster.

The night began with a stunning cultural showcase, as 230 students took to the stage to perform the ‘Tunas Perpaduan’ dance, a vibrant celebration of unity.

Under the artistic direction of Sarawak Arts Council chief executive officer Dayang Moriana Bolhassan, the performance painted a picture of harmony that set the tone for the evening.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, officiating the ceremony, captured the essence of the games in his speech, emphasising the importance of unity and cooperation in shaping Malaysia’s future.

He presented awards to the best female and male athletes, but the night’s crowning moment belonged to Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development of Sarawak cum Sarawak’s chef de mission Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu, who accepted the overall championship trophy on behalf of the state – a symbol of Sarawak’s resurgence on the national stage.

As the Royal Malaysian Navy personnel ceremoniously lowered the Sukma flag, it was first handed to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, who then passed it to Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, the host of Sukma XXII.

The stadium was filled with a profound sense of pride and accomplishment during the handover.

The dazzling fireworks that followed were not just a celebration of the end of the games but a tribute to what they represented – resilience, unity, and the promise of a bright future.

The 21st Malaysia Games did more than just showcase athletic prowess; they reignited the spirit of togetherness and sportsmanship among Malaysia’s youth.

As the final echoes of Sukma XXI fade, Sarawak looks forward not just with pride but with a renewed commitment to nurturing the next generation of champions, united by the bonds forged in these unforgettable days.

And as the last embers of the fireworks settled, so too did the realisation – Sarawak had not only hosted a grand event but had also crafted a legacy that would inspire future generations.

The memories made, the friendships forged, and the victories celebrated will be cherished long after the final whistle.

Sarawak, the Land of the Hornbills, now stands tall, its spirit soaring high, echoing the triumphant cry of “Agi Idup Agi Ngelaban” – “As Long as I Live, I Shall Fight”.