Viva Sarawak!

We have provided the best services and, hopefully, this will be a benchmark (not just for sports) but for the bigger agenda of fostering a spirit of friendship among athletes and youth.

– Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg

The just-ended 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) will forever be etched in the annals of Sarawak’s sporting history as the moment when the Land of the Hornbill reclaimed its position at the pinnacle of Malaysian sports.

After a 30-year wait, we emerged victorious, clinching the overall title for the fourth time, and what a nail-biting journey it was! The intense rivalry with Federal Territories (FT) kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last day, with the final tally of one gold medal making all the difference.

We delivered a stunning performance, securing 76 gold, 55 silver, and 70 bronze medals, culminating in an impressive total of 201. Just a hair’s breadth behind was the FT contingent with 75 golds, 55 silvers, and 70 bronzes, totalling 212 medals. The fierce competition between the two states was one of the closest in SUKMA history, and it brought out the best in our athletes and supporters.

The tension was felt in the final days of the Games, as every event became a potential game-changer. The crucial moment came during the men’s singles table tennis final when Kedah’s Shen Wong Qi defeated FT’s Im Jin Zhen.

Had Im won, FT would have tied with Sarawak in gold medals and snatched the overall title based on their higher silver count. This singles match was a turning point, and it made the difference.

Throughout the Games, the dedication of Sarawak’s fans was evident. They came from all walks of life, displaying the spirit of unity that sports can uniquely foster. From the young to the elderly, from expectant mothers to parents with infants, from students to office workers – everyone rallied behind our heroes and heroines.

The sight of people from diverse ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds cheering in unison was a heart-warming reminder of how sports can bring people together in a way that politics often cannot. It was a true reflection of the Sarawakian spirit – Ibans, Bidayuhs, Melanaus, Malays, Chinese, Indians, and even Matsallehs (married to locals) – stood shoulder to shoulder, united by their love for the state and our athletes.

Sarawak’s victory is not just a triumph of talent and determination; it is also a testament to the leadership and support that made it possible. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg gave his full support to Sarawak as the host to ensure the success of the Games, with full backing from the state government.

Sports Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and Deputy State Secretary Datuk Hii Chang Kee, who served as the chief executive officer of the Games, were instrumental in executing a flawless event. Their tireless efforts ensured that the 21st SUKMA would be remembered as one of the best in history.

The Sarawak SUKMA was a spectacle of excellence in every aspect. The opening and closing ceremonies were lauded as the most spectacular in the Games’ history, with some fans even drawing comparisons to the grandeur of the Olympics. Whether or not these comparisons are fair, one thing is certain: Sarawak set a new standard for future hosts with their impeccable organisation and breath-taking displays. Thanks to the athletes and our leaders.

The athletes themselves rose to the occasion, delivering performances that will be remembered for years to come. Sarawak’s muaythai team made history by winning the overall title for the first time, with an impressive haul of 5 golds, 4 silvers, and 1 bronze. This achievement added another feather to our cap, marking the Games as a landmark event in the state’s sporting journey.

Reflecting on Sarawak’s participation in SUKMA over the years, it is clear that we have come a long way. From our humble beginnings in 1986, when we ranked third with just 35 medals, Sarawak has steadily climbed the ranks, becoming a formidable force in Malaysian sports.

The 1990s were a golden era for the state, with Sarawak winning the overall title in 1990, 1992 and 1994. Each victory was a testament to the our growing prowess, and the 2024 triumph is a continuation of that legacy.

However, what made this year’s victory even more remarkable and sweeter was the slim margin by which we clinched the title. Unlike previous editions where the gap between the top two contenders was substantial, this time, just one gold medal separated Sarawak from FT. This close finish reflected the intense competition and the relentless drive of Sarawak’s athletes to never give up, regardless of the odds.

While the Games were overwhelmingly positive, they were not without their challenges. The bottle-throwing incident during the women’s silat quarterfinals between Sarawak’s Iman Syakilla Mahdi and FT’s Nurin Alyaa Damia Masran marred what was otherwise a smooth event.

Local fans, upset with the scoring system, triggered the unfortunate incident, which led to the remaining matches being held without spectators. The incident was a stark reminder of the passion that sports can ignite, but also of the need for fair play and respect in competition.

On a brighter note, the individual achievements at the 21st edition were nothing short of extraordinary. Selangor swimmer Andrew Goh, who claimed five gold medals, was deservedly crowned Sportsman of the Games, while Negeri Sembilan shooter Gan Chen Jie, with seven golds and two new Games records, was named Sportswoman.

These athletes, and the rest, displayed the highest level of talent and dedication, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in sports.

As Sarawak basks in the glory of their latest victory, the question now is: What’s next? Can the state replicate this success at the next SUKMA in Selangor in 2026? The challenge has already been laid down by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who acknowledged Sarawak’s fighting spirit during the closing ceremony.

He stressed the importance of preserving the spirit of sportsmanship and unity that the Sarawak SUKMA portrayed.

Sarawak’s victory is a source of pride for the entire state, but it also serves as a reminder that the journey is far from over. The athletes, coaches, and supporters must continue to strive for excellence, keeping our flag flying high at future competition.

The bar has been set, and now it is up to Sarawak to maintain their winning form and continue to lead by example.

As the saying goes, Agi Idup Agi Ngelaban. This spirit will undoubtedly carry Sarawak forward as they prepare for the challenges ahead. The 21st SUKMA may have come to a close, but the legacy it leaves behind will inspire future generations to dream big, work hard, and achieve greatness.

Sarawak has yet again proven that they are not mere participants in Malaysian sports but a champion. The journey continues, and with the unity, support, and determination of our leaders and the people, Sarawak will undoubtedly rise to the occasion again, bringing glory to the state and setting new benchmarks for excellence in Malaysian sports.

Ooo-haa!

The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.